By Beau Eckstein

March 14, 2025

business ownership, Feasibility Study, hospitality industry, motel financing, sba loans

Thinking about financing a boutique motel in 2025? You're not alone! This guide breaks down everything you need to know, from understanding financials to structuring your deal and overcoming challenges. Let’s dive in!

Understanding Financials: The Foundation of Your Deal

Your financials are crucial when buying an existing business, especially a boutique motel. Start by gathering the tax returns for the past three years, along with year-to-date Profit and Loss statements (P&Ls) and a balance sheet. These documents demonstrate your financial health and help potential lenders evaluate your borrowing capacity.

However, it’s not just about having these documents. You need to tell a compelling story about your business. Many existing motels might not generate enough cash flow to support a new loan, which means you must illustrate how you plan to stabilize the motel's financials. This involves presenting a feasibility study within your business plan. Showing potential occupancy rates and average daily rates (ADR) is essential to convince lenders that your business will thrive.

The Importance of a Feasibility Study & Business Plan

A comprehensive feasibility study is key to your success. This study should outline why you expect to achieve your occupancy goals and how you plan to attract guests. Whether it’s through renovations, improved marketing strategies, or enhanced guest experiences, you need to present clear, actionable plans.

Feasibility study

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Your business plan should not only include your financial projections but also the steps you'll take to establish your motel as a desirable destination. This plan is your roadmap to success and a tool to gain the confidence of potential lenders. Make sure to emphasize the unique value your motel brings to the market.

Structuring the Deal & Telling the “Value-Add” Story

When structuring your deal, it’s important to highlight your value-add story. What makes your motel different? Are you offering unique experiences, luxury amenities, or competitive pricing? This narrative can significantly impact how lenders perceive your investment.

Structuring a deal

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Overcoming challenges is part of the process. If your financials show limited liquidity or if you lack certain experiences, consider bringing in a partner. A partner with less than 20% ownership can still provide the necessary support and credibility to your deal.

Overcoming Challenges: Liquidity, Experience, and Partnerships

Liquidity issues can be daunting, but they are not insurmountable. If you find yourself lacking sufficient cash reserves, a partner can help bridge that gap. Additionally, if you don’t have the requisite experience in running a motel, consider collaborating with someone who does. Having a guarantor with experience can make your proposal more attractive to lenders.

Challenges in financing

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Remember, the more robust your team and financial backing, the more likely you are to secure financing. Don’t hesitate to reach out for guidance or assistance in structuring your deal.

Business Ownership & SBA Financing Strategies

Understanding Small Business Administration (SBA) financing is essential for anyone looking to finance a boutique motel. The SBA offers a variety of loan programs designed to meet the needs of small business owners. These loans can provide favorable terms, making them an attractive option for financing your motel.

SBA financing

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When considering SBA loans, keep in mind that they are not typically issued directly by the SBA but through banks and lenders. This means you will need to work with a lender that participates in the SBA loan program. Be prepared for a longer application process that requires extensive documentation.

If you're ready to explore your financing options, consider booking a consultation. You can do this by visiting this link.

Creating a Legacy Through Business Ownership

Owning a motel isn’t just about making money; it’s about creating a legacy for your family. At events like our business ownership summit, you can learn how to leverage SBA financing and tax strategies to build a successful business. These events provide valuable insights that can help you navigate the complexities of business ownership.

Business ownership event

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To learn more about upcoming events, visit this link. We encourage you to participate and gain insights from industry experts.

Final Thoughts: Your Path to Success

Financing a boutique motel in 2025 is an attainable goal if you approach it with the right information and resources. By understanding your financials, conducting thorough feasibility studies, and crafting a compelling business plan, you can position yourself as a strong candidate for financing.

Successful motel owner

Photo by Steven Lewis on Unsplash

Don’t forget the importance of building a robust team and considering SBA financing options. With the right strategies and support, you can turn your dream of owning a boutique motel into a reality.

If you want to stay updated on the latest trends in business ownership and financing, consider subscribing to The Business Ownership Newsletter. This resource is packed with insights that can help you succeed.

Remember, you don’t have to navigate this journey alone. Reach out, ask questions, and connect with others who share your passion for business ownership. Together, we can create a brighter future in the hospitality industry!

Working with Beau Eckstein as your commercial mortgage advisor when trying to locate the best SBA financing can be beneficial because he has extensive experience and knowledge in the field. He can help navigate the complex process of obtaining SBA financing and assist in finding the best options for your specific situation.

Additionally, his established relationships with lenders can help increase the chances of getting approved for funding.

Overall, working with a knowledgeable and experienced advisor like Beau Eckstein can greatly increase the chances of successfully obtaining SBA financing.

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