Brian Davis used to have celebrities and pop-stars in the rear of his car. As a professional chauffeur he learnt a number of key principles, one being that positive attitude is key. So when Brian and Hilary were starting a new chapter in the life they began looking at running their own business, they knew that the wanted to find something in hospitality.
Despite having a somewhat limited experience of working in the hospitality sector, they knew they could build on Brian’s ability to deliver first class customer service and hospitality. After years of Brian being on the road, they were both looking forward to a new life together, even if that meant often being on their feet working to run their own business.
A smooth process
During their long searches Hilton Smythe came up regularly and they began to search more closely with Hilton Smythe to ensure they kept a focus on their search priorities. Location remained a key factor, one which resulted in a move from Oxford to Beautiful Bude in Cornwall. Both wanted to ensure that there were close to key amenities as well as a short walk from the local beach in a friendly and popular resort town. Once they found an ideal property, Hilton Smythe helped to make the process as smooth as possible – recognising that not only were the couple making a lifestyle change but also relocating, a challenge for anyone!
Commenting on Hilton Smythe, Brian said: “When you start looking for Guest Houses for sale, there are so many options to consider. Hilton Smythe were highly professional with great attention to detail in terms of correspondence and keeping us up to date. It was one of the best we received and we’d recommend them to anyone looking for their next business venture.”
‘Lifting up the street’
Brian and Hilary wasted no time in raising the standards of their new purchase. They had anticipated that their new venture would need some work and they rolled up their sleeves to convert the formal hotel into the Bude Haven Guesthouse. From new paint and signage externally, through to the start of ongoing refurbishments, the couple have been praised by their neighbours for ‘lifting up the street’ – a well earned accolade. They didn’t stop there, they ensure that they integrated with their local community by holding an evening of drinks and nibbles with neighbours and local businesses at the Guesthouse. Their guesthouse is also used by local sports clubs and in late August this year, will provide accommodation for the Bude Jazz Festival.
Since buying the guesthouse both have learned a great deal about running a business. They have also recognised the value of honest and fair reviews which have resulted in multiple 5-star ratings – one of which posted on Trip advisor, “Could not have come to a more welcoming Hotel… The hosts who could not do enough for me while down in Bude.”
They’ve also welcomed some high-profile guests including Atomic Kitten Natasha Hamilton, Rich from boy-band 5ive and Adrian Cox from Bad Manners. The combination of hard work, great attitude has helped achieve top-ratings and awards from Trivago, Late Rooms and Trip Advisor.
7 Flexbury Avenue, Bude, Cornwall, EX23 8NS
Want to own your own Guest House? Hilton Smythe have Guest Houses for sale throughout the country. Search Guest Houses for sale by clicking here.
