Many people dream of moving to a small, quaint and rural town and running a B & B. Seems the problem is that it is a lot of work, hard to find and keep good help, and sometimes there are too many vacancies. Most owners are just plain tired. It can take a long time to sell these often magnificent Victorian beauties as some of Port Townsend B & B owner's are finding out. Here are some examples:
Old Consulate Inn:
Grand old house with an interesting history dating back to 1891, when it was used as the consulate headquarters, with 9 bedrooms, 10 bathrooms and staff living quarters in the basement. On the market for approx. 4 years, currently listed at $1,100,000. Beautiful woodwork, nice rooms and grounds. 12,000 sq. ft. lot in great location near the Jefferson County Court House.
Ann Starett Mansion:
Built in 1889 as a wedding gift for his bride by one of town's prominent citizens and local builder. Amazing architecture and grand old house. A B & B in the past, it is now operated as a boutique hotel (I am told there was once a wonderful and popular restaurant there) with 10 bedrooms and 10 baths. On the market for the past 5 years or so, it is now offered for $975,000 down from 1.7 mil.
English Inn:
Out of the way a bit, on the edge of Uptown, and well hidden behind English Laurels. Built in 1885 with 6 bedrooms and 6.5 baths with a wonderful Old English Pub on the ground floor. On the market for 1.5 years it is currently offered for $759,000.
Ravenscroft:
New in comparison to most of the historical homes above, this building is from 1989 and is keeping with the Uptown vintage construction. Currently run as a B & B with 8 bedrooms, 9 baths and fabulous kitchen dining area the home has 6222 sq,ft, on a 12,000+ sq. ft. lot. Currently offered at $995,000.
Inn At McCurdy House:
Wonderful view home in heart of Uptown, with only 3 bedrooms, 2 baths. Recently purchased by current owners and back on the market with an asking price of $897,000 ( less than their purchase price less than 2 years ago.)
I am sure you will find this same type of inventory all over the Pacific Northwest. Great time to act if you have the same dream.
Sandra,
I love taking the ferry over to Port Townsend. We do it a couple times a year and think you have great shops and cafes.
Ok n ow you have turned me off my retirement paln.. :)
Hi Sandra;
Very nice listings, wishing you a quick sale.