Is there someone in the southwest Florida area that currently owns and operates a sober living that I could ask some questions? I have been presented with an opportunity that I do not want to miss out on, but I would also like to be smart about it. Thank you.
Hi Lindsay, I run 15 sober living homes myself. Mine are in California, but I have several students in FL. I probably have someone you can connect with. I’ve helped a lot of people get started in sober living over the years in almost every state.
As long as you truly care about people and want to see them rebuild their lives in a supportive & accountable environment, I’m happy to help or point you in the right direction
@Andrew Lamb Naples/bonita springs Florida. Yes, this is something very near and dear to my heart. I can share more of my story if you are wanting to know more about my journey before connecting me with someone. Thank you!
Hi Lindsay, I know this thread went quiet, so I’m adding to it in case it still helps. I work with Vanderburgh Sober Living, so this is from the operator side.
Before you decide on the opportunity, find out what you’d be taking on: buying a house, running the home, or buying into someone else’s operation. Each one carries different risk.
For Florida, certification of recovery residences is voluntary under state law. The Department of Children and Families approves the credentialing entities, and the Florida Association of Recovery Residences certifies the homes. A certified home has to be managed by a certified recovery residence administrator, its owners and directors have to pass level 2 background screening, and it gets inspected at least once a year. Ask whether the opportunity you’ve been offered meets that standard or plans to, and whether anyone has checked.
Which part is it for you: the house, the operation or the investment?
Hi Lindsay, smart move getting your operational ducks in a row before committing!
In Florida, key things to evaluate early on for recovery housing are zoning compliance under Fair Housing, house rules/intake agreements, and aligning your entity (SOS/EIN) with the property lease or deed.
Whether you opt for FARR (Florida Association of Recovery Residences) certification or an independent recovery residence model, setting your operational boundary on paper early is what protects the deal.
Happy to share a quick administrative setup checklist if you're evaluating the operational side of this opportunity!