How do I sell a glamping business?

Selling a glamping business is mostly a matter of preparation. Buyers will want to understand what they are getting, how guests find you and what happens to the people already booked. If you can answer those questions with records rather than memory, buyers’ questions are easier to answer.

Decide what is for sale

Separate the land from the operating business. You may sell both together, sell the business and lease the land, or sell the business where the land is already leased from someone else. Each route changes who your buyers are and what your lawyer needs to prepare. Settle this first, because every other document follows from it.

Records buyers will ask for

Pull together booking records by channel and by season, along with cancellations and repeat guests. Add maintenance records for each unit and a description of how you winterize them. Buyers will also ask what you do yourself each week. Write that down honestly, including cleaning and guest messages, so they can plan for the work.

Future bookings, deposits and accounts

Guests have already booked and paid deposits for dates after your closing. Ask your lawyer and accountant how those should be handled, and put the plan in writing for the buyer. Check what each booking platform requires to move your listing, reviews and website to a new owner. Our guide to selling a campground or RV park shows how a related sale is organized.

Choosing help

A broker is one way to reach buyers. Ask whom the broker acts for, how they are paid and what your agreement says about how long it lasts. Have your lawyer read it before you sign.