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This is a hypothetical at the moment, but one I'm curious about. If you wanted to have a small events space (for say things like small concerts, wedding receptions, etc.) what would be the cheapest property type you could buy to convert into one?
My guess would be a warehouse, but it seems zoning laws make that a nightmare. However, I recently found some news articles about people who have done just that so I guess it's not impossible.
Also, for reference I live in suburban Massachusetts currently and am most curious about this question applied to here and other areas like Massachusetts.
I would guess that an abandoned church might be a good choice too. Great acoustics in one large area, reception areas, lots of different sized rooms and generally a kitchen and restrooms for crowds. Plus large parking lots!
And there seem to be lots of churches on the market in some areas of the country.
The cheapest type might be a nice park-like property with a nice view. Add a bathroom and a covered picnic area, and perhaps a gazebo with a nice backdrop for wedding pictures.... and you've got yourself a summer venue.
This is a hypothetical at the moment, but one I'm curious about. If you wanted to have a small events space (for say things like small concerts, wedding receptions, etc.) what would be the cheapest property type you could buy to convert into one?
The biggest issue your going to run into is zoning and town regulations. Many properties you would want to convert into something else, cannot be. This is happening with barns right now. Neighbors are very upset the quiet countryside is being turned into loud music party all night barns and is getting them shut down because its not zoned for it.
So whatever you want....... gotta check if its allowed first.
The biggest issue your going to run into is zoning and town regulations. Many properties you would want to convert into something else, cannot be. This is happening with barns right now. Neighbors are very upset the quiet countryside is being turned into loud music party all night barns and is getting them shut down because its not zoned for it.
So whatever you want....... gotta check if its allowed first.
Absolutely right! OP needs to remember that his/her clients will need to park someplace too. The space will also have to have a commercial water/sewer system, probably a commercial kitchen, and meet commercial fire requirements. Be prepared for pushback from the neighbors who will foresee big traffic jams and noise all hours of the day and night. It's not just a matter of finding a big empty box.
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Originally Posted by Diana Holbrook
Old rustic barns are a popular wedding and party location.
Also, really old schools, or homes. Warehouses, I don't know. Just doesn't seem to have the same appeal.
For the best success it also needs to be in a scenic area, with decent views.
The local Walmart moved to another location and left a huge vacant building with an enormous parking lot. That could have been turned into quite a nice event building. Excellent location, easy to find, lots of parking, right off the highway.
As others have said, old churches would work well. Another might be an old social hall. (has the local Masonic temple closed, for example?) An old restaurant might be a good option.
I agree with others that converting something like a barn or warehouse might not be a good idea, because they weren't designed to be assembly spaces, and you might get resistance from locals--who you might need support from--for changing the use of a property. Also, any savings you have from buying an old warehouse, would probably be used up doing the renovations needed to bring the space up to code. (if the building is already an assembly use, like a church, you might not need to do as many renovations.)
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