Business Advice-Western Mass (Pittsfield, Amherst, Northampton: real estate, apartments, loft)

[brigid68]

I am seeking honest advice on a business venture I would like to take. I don't want humbled opinions or rants that go off topic, I just want honest thougths and advice and maybe some interest...

We currently reside in the DC area. Being from the North and from humble beginnings, my husband and I feel like fish out of water. We are honest hardworking people and would like to live where we are equal with others. We have no interest in keeping up with the Jones' and find them to be a bit out of touch with blue collar folks. We own a food store and do ok for being self employed. It is a tough business and our children suffer from our hours. We would like to relocate and the Hilltowns seem to fit us

We would like to purchase a commercial building in an area that is artistic and shape a business around the arts (music, literature, all art mediums). We would like a space that is large enough to run a small book shop with it's focus on kids, have an area that would cater to artists--be it selling supplies, space for lessons, space for folks to set up shop and just create--an area for music--again lessons, jam sessions, kids area--and at the heart of it a small food counter that would only use local ingredients. I know that when times get tough schools usually cut the arts first so I am sure there are enough folks out of work that could set up shop and eke out a living. I would like it to be community oriented and be affordable for all. I guess living where we are now the cost of things is total sticker shock even after 10 years. I want to focus on kids mainly so my own benefit and learn that it truely does take a village to raise a child.

Is this a good idea? I know I need to tweek (?) it but this is the vision. What would be a good area--Greenfield, Shelburne Falls, Chesterfield, West Chesterfield, Cummington?

All help is greatly appreciated...

[lrfox]

I don't think it's a bad idea. As with any business, look into the risks involved (you already know that).

The type of business you're looking to run generally doesn't turn a large profit, but again, I'm guessing you know that. I think if you do it the right way, it could be successful. Maybe your view is different, but I picture a historic older building that you could dress up as you see fit (maybe let some local artists do the decorating... it could help give you an instant reputation and spread the word). Using free services such as Facebook, Myspace, Twitter and Craigslist would really get your name out there. Posting flyers and papers at local universities and schools would help get customers cheaply as well.

I think something like your idea would be the most successful in your area (as opposed to much of the rest of Massachusetts). I would consider locating in Northampton or Amherst if possible. It MAY work out in Pittsfield or North Adams, but Northampton is much closer and has the type of populous that would patronize a business like that.

I would consider mixing up the books to include maybe an equal ratio of Children's books to Adults. The only reason I say that is because you're in an area that is populated by lots of college students. I REALLY like the idea though. In fact, I think the local-food cafe at the heart the bookstore as well as spaces for jam sessions and lessons and art supplies just hits the nail on the head when you are looking at the ideals of that area. A nice, historic building in Downtown Northampton would have plenty of room (you MAY even have room for loft apartments if that's something you'd be interested in).

In FACT, some of the college art students (both visual and performing) would probably love to use your space to do some teaching for a minimal cost.

Of course, the reality is that you'll have to do a lot of research to see if it's feasible. I'd say marketing yourself is key. Other than that, I think it's an excellent idea. In fact, I REALLY like it. I think that the region you're in is perfect for it.

Anyway, best of luck.

[teachertype]

You need to put out a few hundred dollars up front and take a long weekend in the Shelburne area, look at who is selling food - like McCuskers/Greenfield's Market and the dozens of small restaurants, bistros, arts venues and book sellers already there - and do an internet search for the few commercial buildings available in the area.

Real estate here is half what it is in D.C. Still, you're talking minimum a million dollars to do what you want to do and you'll work the same long hours to keep afloat in a community with fewer discretionary dollars to spend. Nothing wrong with your vision but you're not connected to reality.

[theh]

It's a great idea. Northampton, Amherst, or Shelburne would probably be your best bets.

[Beachcomber4]

I think the community oriented focus is what will set you apart. I know of three very different local businesses in my area that employed that model, and all are thriving. People want to support local business. People also value their time and sometimes are willing to pay for convenience (going to the small independent bookstore vs. Barnes and Noble for a book). I am not sure of how the economic climate in that area compares.
I would suggest checking out Chamber of Commerce etc and seeing how involved local businesses are in these organizations and what they can offer a new business. Good luck.