Hotel Ownership 101: 10 Smart Questions To Ask Before You Invest
August 18, 2025
10 Smart Questions to Ask Before Investing in a Hotel
1. What is the location’s long-term potential?
- Nearby attractions and demand generators (airports, business centers, universities)
- Seasonality and occupancy trends
- Competition in the area
- Zoning and development plans
2. Is the property franchised or independent?
3. What are the historical financials and performance metrics?
- Occupancy rate (Occ)
- Average daily rate (ADR)
- Revenue per available room (RevPAR)
- Net operating income (NOI)
4. What capital improvements are needed?
- Renovation history
- Upcoming property improvement plans (PIPs)
- Age of HVAC, plumbing, and roofing systems
5. Who will manage the hotel?
- Management fees
- Performance benchmarks
- Experience in similar-sized properties or markets
6. What’s included in the purchase?
- Inventory (furniture, fixtures, equipment)
- Licenses and permits
- Employee contracts or union agreements
7. What’s the local labor market like?
- Local wage rates
- Staff availability and training options
- Employee retention strategies
8. Are there any legal or environmental issues?
- Title searches
- Environmental assessments (e.g., asbestos, mold, underground tanks)
- Local code violations or legal disputes
9. How does the hotel rank online?
- Guest reviews on platforms like Google, TripAdvisor, and OTA sites
- Star ratings
- How well the hotel responds to guest feedback
10. What insurance coverage is in place?
- Existing business insurance policies
- Claims history
- Gaps in coverage (see below for more on this topic)
Why Business Insurance Is Essential for Hotel Owners
- General liability – Covers guest injuries or property damage
- Property insurance – Protects against damage from fire, storms, or vandalism
- Business interruption – Covers lost income if the hotel must close temporarily
- Workers’ compensation – Required in most states for employee injuries
- Cyber liability – Protects sensitive guest data and reservation systems
- Employment practices liability – Shields against wrongful termination or discrimination claims
Final Thoughts
At Desmond Insurance, we aim to provide comprehensive insurance policies that make your life easier. We want to help you get insurance that fits your needs. You can get more information about our products and services by calling our agency at
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Disclaimer: The information presented in this blog is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. It is crucial to consult with a qualified insurance agent or professional for personalized advice tailored to your specific circumstances. They can provide expert guidance and help you make informed decisions regarding your insurance needs.
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