Houses on the Lake
Company Summary
Houses On The Lake offers vacation-houseboat rentals on Lake Shasta, California to large families and groups of families. The business was incorporated in 2009 and will launch in 2010 upon funding. Houses On The Lake was founded by Robert Hopkins, a previous bed and breakfast owner who relocated to California after twenty years running his business in Vermont.
Company Ownership
Robert Hopkins established Houses On The Lake as an LLC. Robert will retain 100% of the company and will receive a loan to make up additional required capital.
Start-up Summary
Houses On The Lake will invest in the establishment of an office/small store at an existing marina (for light renovations, adding signage, office equipment and furniture, setting up Internet and phone, shelves and displays) and for the purchase of three ski boats ($5,000 each). The marina where Houses On The Lake will set up will have docking space for 3 houseboats and the 3 ski boats, courtesy ramps, gas and ice, and other basic facilities.
Legal and Permits includes legal consultation for the business and related to financing agreements, building permits from local authorities and the US Forest Service, a business license, and motor vehicle rental permits.
Rent is for the marina space for one month of set-up before launch at $1000 per month. The security deposit of one month is part of current assets.
Insurance will be liability both for the marina usage and the boats when in use by Houses On The Lake renters. To limit liability, the renter (captain) must be at least 25 years of age and have a valid driver’s license.
The website, brochure, and advertisements will be detailed in the marketing strategy section and Web plan.
Houseboats will not be purchased, but will be provided by current owners under contract with Houses On The Lake to provide use of the boats for up to 90% of the year, including some use during peak periods. These owners are provided with a share of revenue as well as moorage and maintenance on their boats.
The cash required will see the business through the first year’s losses until it has achieved the scale needed to support itself with positive cash flows.
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