Southeast International Hotel Brokers: Hotel vs. Motel

Hotels and motels are two very different animals. If you’re considering buying one or the other, it’s important to understand the difference between the two before investing. Here at Southeast International Hotel Brokers, we work with a number of clients selling various types of hotel properties, from lodges and inns to interstate motels and luxurious getaway resorts. To begin, let’s differentiate between a hotel property and a motel property.

Hotel vs. Motel

A hotel property is a lodging facility that provides short-term lodging to guests with many other amenities, such as an indoor or outdoor pool, complimentary breakfast, room service, workout facilities, a concierge desk, etc. Pricing typically depends on star ratings, room types, amenities and several other factors, but hotels are typically more expensive than motels. Hotels can be located anywhere in a city or town, but they are often found in business centers, near airports, or near highways.

A motel property is a lodging facility that provides short-term or long-term lodging to guests with limited amenities. The rooms are typically very minimal and instead of opening up into an interior hallway, the doors most often open into an outdoor area or directly into the parking lot. Most motels do not offer many amenities, although many do provide guests with complimentary breakfasts. Motels are geared toward motorists that are en route to a particular destination, whereas hotels are seen more as a source of relaxation during a vacation. Motels are most often located alongside busy interstates and freeways.

Questions to Ask Yourself Before Buying

As you can see, there are plenty of differences between motels and hotels, but here at Southeast International Hotel Brokers, we want to make sure you make the decision that is right for you. If you’re still not sure which best suits your style, consider asking yourself the following questions:

What Type of Clientele Do I Want to Attract?

If you want to market your property as a place for travelers to rest and enjoy vacation time, a hotel may be the better choice. On the other hand, if you’d prefer to cater to motorists traveling to or from a destination, a motel is a great option for you.

What Is My Budget?

If you have a small budget, you’d be better off investing in a motel rather than a hotel. Oftentimes, motels are less expensive investments, but that may not always be the case. If you’re unsure about what your budget can buy, talk to a hotel broker at Southeast International Hotel Brokers for more information.

Do I Want to Buy Into a Franchise or Market My Own Brand?

Depending on your professional goals, it may be more advantageous for you to invest in a hotel property rather than a motel. While the type of property does not define your success, you may have more luck with an independent motel brand, but you may make more profit joining arms with a large name like Marriott or Best Western.

What Is My Ideal Location?

Do you strive to be centrally located in the downtown business center of a major city? Or would you rather have a property located in a more rural area? Your answer may help determine whether you should buy a hotel or a motel. A broker from Southeast International Hotel Brokers can help you determine which option would be best for your long-term investment goals.

Consult with Southeast International Hotel Brokers

Buying a hotel or motel is a big decision, regardless. We’d love to help you weigh your options and show you some potential listings. Call or email the Southeast International Hotel Brokers office to speak with an experienced hotel broker, and get started today.