Add a new game experience or not?

Question

I have a property under contract and all my due diligence and homework suggest it will do well with proper management execution which I plan to self manage.

Question is if I invest $40k in one of these super fancy sports experiences would it be worth it? I was Planning to buy a more expensive property but liked the one I have now more so I have an extra play money in the budget. The question for the resident experts if adding that kind of investment is worth it or not?

it’s in the Smokey’s and I see that pools make a big difference but wonder if these fancy game consoles have a similar effect (obviously not a pool but a differentiator)

thank you

Ken Boone · Answer

I think that would be a good differentiator for you but it won’t compare with the pool.  But it should put you in line with the folks that have a number of video games.  It’s something different and a little more unique.  I have seen that setup in a few cabins but a very small few.  The things you have to think about are do you have some one that can fix/maintain it?   How quickly can you get replacement parts etc?  How quickly can it get damaged by guests?  Then weigh that all into the equation and see if it’s worth the price to you.    Also make sure you have the space for it.  Don’t cram something like that into a space if it doesn’t fit.

Ken Boone · Answer

The pool is the biggest differentiator.  Everyone has a 60-1 multicade.  Where people stand out next is when they add in multiple types of arcade games.  As in side by side racing games where two people can race against each other, shooting games like buck hunter, golden tee, etc.  lots of gaming amenities stand out.

Account Closed · Answer

@Khaled El Dorry  maybe go to a golf store and ask about how often they break? Issues? maintenance? Just to see what you’re getting into.

How many people want a golf simulator?  I don’t play so don’t have a clue.  A pool seems much more widely sought out. But, I’m not in your market and don’t know your demographics.

If all the houses are 90% occupied and your house is in the top quartile then it’ll rent anyway.  Seems like it’ll take a long time to recoup $40k for this thing.

Khaled El Dorry · Answer

Thankfully I listened and didn't spend the money on the gaming unit and we’re off to a decent start.  I spent the money on renewing old furniture and setting up a nice game room so income>expenses so far. Of course February will be slow so we’ll see what the back end of the year looks like

https://abnb.me/l2NfxbwoDwb

Trent Reeve · Answer

here is the other thing. What extra insurance does a golf store have for that unit. Risk of injury is really high. Hit a ball into a screen, but it bounces off wrong and hits someone in the face or eye? your insurance is going to pay out. I used to work in a place a long time ago that had one, people not expert golfers hit it wrong and balls bouncing back, hit the ground too hard and break a club, etc

Trent Reeve · Answer

just my opinion, i go to a golfing location to golf. I wouldnt choose a cabin in the smokey's based on it having a golf room over one that had say a hot tub or heated pool or something like that. plus, not everyone likes golf, especially in the same family. spend it on making a great fire pit area, add hot tub if you dont have one, etc. something like that

Timothy Goncalves · Answer

In a warmer climate I was thinking a pickle ball court could intrest people and be a deciding factor

Ken Boone · Answer

Well IMO I am assuming you are trying to set your cabin up as a premium cabin with a premium price if you are going to put something like that in there.  If that is the case, guests will be paying a premium and will be kind of hacked off if they then have to pay to play so I think I would agree and make it free to play if you put that in.

Khaled El Dorry · Answer

It’s definitely not remotely close to the pool. The space is not an issue for sure. Regarding the repairs, yes I’m buying a warrantee + technical support and obviously will have a good handyman in town to quickly address. I also plan to put a hefty fine if there is damage to the unit from guests. I read elsewhere that I should also make it pay to play but I don’t intend to go that route first.

Add a new game experience or not?

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