I've gotten interested in Residential Assisted Living Facilities (RALs or RALFs). Gene Guarino has been doing a great job of selling the idea. So I'm in!

But I'm a newbie to real estate, and the more I learn the more intimidated I feel. I'll be starting a new business, licensing, buying property, rehabbing, staffing, marketing, etc. When I looked into opening RALs in North Carolina, where I live, I learned that all new RALs here for over 6 people require a CON, a Certificate Of Need. The CON application alone is a sweet nonrefundable $5,000 to $50,000. And our region's analyst, the one that reviews the CONs, told me "...no application would be accepted..."

She's harshing my buzz!

Rewind! I should follow Gene's example. He started by buying an existing facility. So I went online to find them. Thank goodness there is a directory of licensed RALs online on my state website. I'll be calling!

Surprise! I was checking out prices for a facility on SeniorAdvisor.com (had to give my name, email and phone number), and got a call _one_second_ after I hit enter. I kid you not! 

Now that's customer service!

Hi, Paula and congrats on your new business!  it sounds great. I am thinking of looking into them here in Cleveland, Oh where I live.  I've seen quite a few popping up and they seem to do very well.  As a UPS driver, I often deliver to them so I've seen them inside and have started talking to the managers, staff and the residence.  I wish you well in your endeavor they are greatly needed. 

@Randy Campbell Sr , I envy you for the access you already have to them.  And I want to thank you for your congratulations.  It's a tremendous encouragement to me to keep moving, and just do the next right thing!

Again, thanks.  -Paula

@Paula Willis how did it go. Were you able to buy an existing one or did you get one of your own? I'm looking to get started too here in Charlotte. 

@Paula Willis that’s awesome! I am interested in these facilities also. I have heard of Gene but haven’t done too much research into him but I am familiar with Group Home Riches. Anyone have any experience with Gene or Group Home Riches?