I would like to open a breakfast and lunch restaurant in Hopkins, MI. Is this profitable?

Annette
Other/Just Looking
Hopkins, MI

Answers (1)
Paul Mcintyre
Agent
Portage, MI
FIRST ANSWER

Your question is more than a little outside the scope of a Realtor's provence, but let me give you a little information.

Restaurants are the business startups most likely to fail. They involve a large investment up front, and generally offer a fairly slow rate of return - especially breakfast. They also require a high level of dedication and personal involvement. Restaurant owners typically put in 10-12 hour days (or longer) 7days per week. You will probably have to be open on days when you know you aren't going to make money so that people will come back on the days you will. When starting up you are likely to be the cook, wait staff, cashier, manager, and bookkeeper; even when you have staff. You will also have to familiarize yourself with health codes and employment laws if you arent' already aware of these.

That having been said, obviously there are many restaurants that are very successful due to the dedication of the owners - particularly in having a good business plan. The state of Michigan and the county health departments will have lots of helpful, free or low cost support for you. You should also look for someone to help you write a business plan - and if you don't know what one is, find someone with a solid background. There may also be funding available for you through different government programs for small business owners.

In short, you can make money in this line of work, just be sure you do you homework.

Wed Jun 24 2009, 07:25

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