We Quit Our Jobs To Buy A Campground - Now It Brings In $1.2 Million

[@asavannah7439]

Good for them. Taking such a big risk wouldn't be my cup of tea, but I admire people like that. They deserve to be successful

[@dens3096]

Proves again whoever works at CNBC are just plane STUPID: The couple paid: 1. $1,600,000 the lot 2. $1,500,000 the renovations 3. $4,200,000 the upkeep cost ($700,000 annually X (2022-2016) = 4 years) Total expenses are $7,300,000 plus taxes so with the value of $6,000,000 (good luck if you sell for this amount) the couple is underwater with $1,300,000 Why they call it Make it ? It should be called "Loose IT"

[@Pasan34]

And according to some politicians, they are "millionaires, and need to pay half their income to pay their fair share!". Ignoring the HUGE risk they took and the time they are putting in right now.

[@MH-ru8he]

What is missing is what's not being shared. Did they know the previous owner of the camp ground and were they offered this opportunity with that connection or was it pure chance the camp ground came available and turned out to be profitable from the start? The camp had been in existence for 40 years so it's not likely the previous owners would just sell to some strangers. Normally people keep things like this in the family.

[@oscarget1620]

😢아 진😢😢🎉😢짜구 😢😢😢나 😮나 😢😢🎉😢나 🎉🎉😢🎉😢😢😢4🎉🎉나 😢​@@Pasan34ㅂ😮🎉ㅂ😮

[@oscarget1620]

​😂😢😢😮😮😅😮😮😮😮😮😮😅😮😮😮😮😮😮😮😮😮😅😮😮😮😮😮😮😮😅😅😮😅😮😅ㅅ😂❤ㄹ😂😮😮😅😮😮😮😮😅😅😅😅😅😅😅😮😮😮😮😮😮😮😅😅🎉🎉❤ㅈ,

[@portalomus]

This is so inspirational. I love that they took an aging site and turned it into their own vision/dream. I"m rooting for them to succeed and I hope they continue to feel good about the sacrifices they've made. Also, the videos of this camp ground actually made me want to go camping, and I despise camping, so they're doing something right!

[@MH-ru8he]

There's got to be more that they're not telling us like maybe they had a connection with the previous camp owners. It has been in existence 40 years prior to them buying. Normally something like that would be passed down the family or to someone close.

[@robertlee8805]

Either way they're enjoying it. And their customers LOVE spending time there. Live to know how much folks stay there and how long of a stay and how often did they return in a year to 5 years or the years they owned the campsite. They did most of the upgrades, renovations and additions.

[@HypeBeast764]

Yeah bro capitalist propaganda is so inspirational

[@coreyhamilton53]

This isn't inspirational. They're price gouging so much that people can't afford any vacations, even camping!

[@maryblakley3590]

KOAs can be hit or miss, it all depends on the owners. This couple looks like they're doing a great job!

[@Gizziiusa]

...and the location ,obviously. Go put one up in Antarctica and see how it does there...

[@robertlee8805]

They seem to be awesome folks and LOVE what they do that's why they're doing well.

[@robertlee8805]

And you might add the kids helped out too.

[@stevenbaker7025]

KOAs are only good if they're close to towns or cities.. other than that you might as well dispersed camp somewhere for free!

[@lindakincaid4530]

agree. But they have doubled in price from 2020. Almost cheaper to stay in a hotel now.

[@NotThatBob]

so happy for these folks. I LOVE KOA. I've often driven far from home, pulling my Airstream and have always found a clean KOA to do laundry, take a break, fill my propane and so much more. I must say. by the looks of their camp in the video, I need to make this KOA a must stay.

[@JujuGurgel]

I know they probably have a lot more work now that they have their own business but they are super happy which tells me that key to happiness is not to work less but to work more on what you truly enjoy doing.

[@fabios.29]

He really had a good mentor! I think what is mentor said is one of the best part of the video: 1) If you could do anything in the world what would it be? 2) Fast forward to when you're 80 years old looking back at life and ask the question: what do you regret not trying? The answer to these questions needs be the same!

[@mikepetrocchi9282]

I admire this family for taking their future into their own hands. It looks as though they truly understand their customers and provide an exceptional service to families. I would love to see this beautiful KOA and what they’ve been able to build. Excellent job!

[@malanalan1]

they had 1.6M!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@rtroybal]

Wow this place looks awesome. Good for these folks. They’re an inspiration

[@bananaboat1808]

Honestly, they picked the perfect time to buy and renovate a campground because ever since Covid and the recession more people are going camping than ever and it's a trend that is likely to stick. Lockdowns encouraged more people to try outdoor activities. The recession took away a lot of disposable income from people so many are opting for visiting campgrounds instead of going on an expensive vacation. I wish this couple success on their campground. While I myself prefer more primitive amenities, for families or inexperienced campers (which is a large share of campers these days), I could see it being very popular and profitable.

[@OttoMatieque]

I hate when people talk about gross revenue and keep the expenses a secret. The net is what matters.

[@j_rainsgoat3929]

Net 400k

[@maness2112]

And that's the bottom line.

[@AbeRealest]

Yeeeeeep

[@JoWaDe92]

5:55 "It costs between $600K - $700K to run the campground each year" Do you call this "keeping a secret"? :D

[@zackdreamcast]

Welcome to real estate

[@dilvishpa5776]

I am glad they survived the Covid lockdowns. Many small businesses did not, especially tourist operations in Canada, who saw their businesses repossessed. I worked in tourist camps during the summer as a teenager, and I certainly see the attraction of that type of life and business. Well done!

[@bananaboat1808]

Covid lockdowns were actually quite good for outdoor-based businesses in the USA (to be fair the lockdown was less strict than Canada was), such as campgrounds, because the closure of many indoor recreation options led people to seek out camping. Also, because people couldn't travel internationally many decided to take camping trips. Now, with the recession, camping remains popular as people want to go on cheaper vacations and camping is a cheap option. Camping was not the only outdoor activity that boomed during Covid, hiking, RVing, boating, bicycling, and target shooting also experienced surges in popularity during this time. People are now seeking the outdoors more than ever and it is a good business model.

[@dilvishpa5776]

@@bananaboat1808 I was referring to tourist operations in Canada, who depend on Americans for the majority of their livelihood. The closed border killed their businesses. You are correct, Americans vacationed in the USA, which was precisely Canada’s problem.

[@PWCDN]

Camping actually soared because of covid. Only thing was they had to shut down facilities, so you'll have to figure out where to poop. I actually started camping because of covid, else there was not much to do other than stay at home. I still camp now because I love it, so the "industry" definitely benefited from covid.

[@bananaboat1808]

@@PWCDN OP is referring to Canada, not the USA, Canada had much stricter lockdowns so camping and travel were not as available to them during that time. And I'm glad that you have gotten into camping since the pandemic, it's a wonderful way to experience nature, and as someone who has been camping for decades, I welcome this new wave of folks interested in camping and the outdoors. Only bummer is now all the popular spots are reserved months in advance, but with the way I camp I always find a spot without issue.

[@writingpanda]

This is so inspiring! I love the passion they have. 🎉❤😊

[@saynotop2w]

My sister really didn’t want to continue our family business of running a pharmacy, but she changed her mind after soul searching after college. Sometimes if the business is successful enough it could sway the children’s minds about continuing the legacy.

[@gio.orbit5498]

especially when they go out into the real world and realize how hard it really is to make it, they'll probably run back into mommy and daddy's arms lol

[@DA-jw4lx]

Sometimes it just takes time. I don't desire the things I desired even just 10 years ago.

[@mikethemechanic7395]

We need more campgrounds in Oregon. It’s insane. You have to book almost 1 year ahead for all campgrounds.

[@JamesG1126]

Oregon sucks.

[@helenalaney]

Why does it suck​@@JamesG1126

[@AJR-zg2py]

Seeing those before-and-after pics is like magic - you can really see just how aged and neglected the campsite was previously and how modern it looks now. It's a whole new experience :)

[@JMc.D]

They deserve to be applauded. They worked hard to get to a comfortable point. Then put it all on the line to follow a dream and didn’t take their foot off the gas. Well done.

[@yen-8680]

This couple did all the right things… ❤ their campground looks so beautiful & very inviting

[@jansmith3158]

This couple understand business. You have to invest money into the business to make money for years to come. Improvements in your business are a must to get returned customers. It's just part of doing business. Great job to this couple.

[@rubychew6535]

The family appears to be really relaxed and happy. I worked at jobs that I couldn't stand.

[@TristenHernandez]

They wouldn’t even let you stand up? That’s so sad. I’m sorry.

[@rubychew6535]

@@TristenHernandez I meant by jobs I couldn't stand meaning jobs that I hated.

[@288theabe]

@@TristenHernandez Booooooooo lol

[@dens3096]

Proves again whoever works at CNBC are just plane STUPID: The couple paid: 1. $1,600,000 the lot 2. $1,500,000 the renovations 3. $4,200,000 the upkeep cost ($700,000 annually X (2022-2016) = 4 years) Total expenses are $7,300,000 plus taxes so with the value of $6,000,000 (good luck if you sell for this amount) the couple is underwater with $1,300,000 Why they call it Make it ? It should be called "Loose IT"

[@jasminecontreras7341]

@@TristenHernandez🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@admagnificat]

What a wonderful story, and what a wonderful family. Thank you for putting together this piece!

[@missn2021]

Wow they are awesome and will very soon reap the benefits of all the work they have put into this. Well done to them.

[@edyann]

I like these types of videos- making it on your own videos, but I've got to say that so many of them are so out of reach for the vast majority of regular people. Edit: I had to edit my comment because people are telling me again and again that I have a negative mentality and that's why I'll never make it. I live in Mexico, own two businesses and two homes here. The reason for my comment is because the U.S. makes it sound so easy.. as if ANY ONE can do it and that's not the case. That country is just so expensive. No wonder there's over 35,000 Americans living in my state alone. So there. Answered you all and goodbye.

[@lenaprice6239]

Can you explain why this is out of reach? They simply decided to change their lives. The truth is, anyone can do it, if they focus their efforts on working towards what they want.

[@edyann]

@@lenaprice6239 It just seems to me that the majority already have a fairly large amount of money where they can have the luxury to do that. Good for them but I don't see it realistic for the "regular" person.

[@LaLadybug2011]

@@lenaprice6239 It's out of reach because most Americans didn't make $200k for 20+ years and have tens of thousands of dollars to start off an adventure like this. They were already wealthy, had 401k to borrow from for the down payment which meant the banks would loan them over one million dollars to buy the property.

[@lenaprice6239]

@@LaLadybug2011 Understood, but many have far less and are still able to accomplish whatever goal/dream they have. It may not be easy, but again, with the right focus and action, it can be done.

[@roses2361]

I get what you mean. This type of business requires a lot of capital and a relatively high risk appetite (aside from hard work and persistence, of course). But there are a lot of business ideas that require very little capital and low risk. I started my first business with pre-owned books, vintage items and a social media account. It has grown bigger than my wildest dreams. Don’t let the lack of capital limit your dreams. If anything, it will compel you to be more creative, innovative, and resourceful- traits needed to become a successful entrepreneur. Find your niche. You can do it! 👍

[@michaeledwards8609]

I really liked this video with the family that is in this business for the passion and not so much the money. Also I liked the breakdown of how this KOA was financed at the beginning. I wish them success in the their business.

[@dewservices]

Great conclusion there at the end. Don't pay off the mortgage. You can pay off the loan when you sell the property. Congratulations. I'm so happy for yall. Not to mention, you can write off the entire monthly payment on your taxes.

[@sokingssddk]

Looks like they have a happy family, and a good business. Blessed.

[@Alster763]

I think a lot of people are looking for their dream, I am glad they found theirs they seem like a really great couple.

[@petertwining5729]

So awesome wish them all the success and happiness.

[@dens3096]

Proves again whoever works at CNBC are just plane STUPID: The couple paid: 1. $1,600,000 the lot 2. $1,500,000 the renovations 3. $4,200,000 the upkeep cost ($700,000 annually X (2022-2016) = 4 years) Total expenses are $7,300,000 plus taxes so with the value of $6,000,000 (good luck if you sell for this amount) the couple is underwater with $1,300,000 Why they call it Make it ? It should be called "Loose IT"

[@youtuber9758]

I've done 5 cross country roadtrips in North America and KOA is my goto campground. It never disappoints, consistently great service, and always close to the main attractions no matter how remote it is.

[@collinsfriend1]

You certainly did it the right way, including taking a salary. I have seen many businesses fail that were prospering because the owners started skimming money, buying expensive toys, then cutting corners to cover it all and losing customers because of cutting corners and going under. Businesses that had a total monopoly, started off popular and busy and failed in a couple of years. I could never talk my husband into this, but it's a great idea and thing to do. It's not only lucrative but it is delivering a great camping experience for people and that's hard to find. They're either glorified walmart parking lots, stacked like sardines, or often run down, poorly maintained washrooms and not much for kids for those with kids that are clean areas and a variety of things for them to do.

[@MichaelChengSanJose]

Who would have known that COVID would come along and turbo boost the camping business during exactly their ownership. Good for them.

[@ostromadventures]

What a great great come true! It’s in a great part of Michigan, I hope continued success.

[@bettycooper369]

I think with the van life boom and housing affordability crisis, this could be really lucrative in decades to come. Especially if they are rebranded as long term RV stays and outfitted for 4 seasons.

[@leanneadams2549]

Now this is what a happy and fulfilling life would look like to me !!! I absolutely loved this vid and hope do exactly that some day !! Thanks for sharing and can’t wait to visit some day !!!! ⛺️ ❤

[@MrTofu13]

I have not been to this one. They are doing a great job. Campground looks well maintained. My next KOA.

[@ebeyslough]

Talk about a nice couple with good heads on their shoulders. What an inspiration.

[@TheWestAspen]

Good for you, taking something you are passionate about and making other peoples experiences better. American spirit at work!

[@RobJaeger]

Michigan is a great state full of great people. Very underrated.

[@myladycasagrande863]

Shhhhhh! If people find out, they'll all be coming here!

[@irmakalember3709]

True everyone always just looks at Detroit and makes a negative statement about it.

[@akim2154]

My in laws are from MI and are also great people who lived under their means and saved over time so they could enjoy their retirement! They deserve it! 🤗

[@randym1788]

Does anyone know what mark worked as in the Michigan government? 200K would make him a highly paid employee by Michigan government standards

[@zephyrus8]

Exactly, and this was eight years ago he was making this? Crazy.

[@AreU4Real1]

All your answers are public record. Do a little research and you will find many Govt jobs pay salaries that are high. It’s because what they do is high paying, all you have to do is compare salaries to the private sector. You will also find that private sector pays more than Govt service. So I know it’s a bit more work to educate yourself than learning stuff off social media, but at least don’t post your ignorance and Hatred

[@kevinr5187]

Great job guys! Hard working people. I wish more Americans would work as hard as theses two.

[@mookie449]

Very impressive accomplishment! Congratulations to you both.

[@dgraja22]

Inspirational! Love that you made it work!

[@stevenutepass7671]

Very happy for you folks. Enjoy the rewards.

[@canadian_grower420]

All I can say is, wow, that is truly amazing! I would absolutely love being blessed enough to do something like this!!❤❤❤❤❤

[@dsmith6785]

The pandemic created a boon, for a relatively short period of time. The upgrades made during that time was money well invested as the newly turned campers trying to avoid contracting COVID are returning to their pre-pandemic travel plans, like exploring the world.

[@brandysears3546]

Sending support, love, and kindness from Lexington, Michigan, USA

[@MauroRincon]

That was a seriously risky move. Probably I wouldn't have the guts. Very happy for this couple who made it work!

[@helenalaney]

Follow your gut

[@ItsRyanStudios]

Campgrounds are in insanely in-demand business right now. People don't realize how many of us are living on the road now; and even more people traveling with remote jobs. Even broken down campgrounds in rural Maine are filled up. Challenge is, owning one of these really is a lifestyle. You'll rarely ever be able to take a vacation, many repairs, staffing (depending on size of campground), and a lot of interaction with customers. It's certainly not for everyone.

[@DatNguyen-yq2jz]

One thing I can say from this video is to pay your children for their participation. A lot of family tends to utilize family help to keep expense down, and they don't mind. But that is the wrong mentality. You can pay the family member and offer them to purchase equity in the family business. It is tax deductible for the business, and you teach them the value of work and rewards. If you ever cashed out, it will be good for the the kid later on. Just need to look into proper llc or corporations structure to protect you and your family interest.

[@stevenvillarreal8970]

I live not too far from St. Joseph but I will definitely be checking this place out soon!

[@penguinwithwifi]

Their campground looks like a fun place for young families

[@dens3096]

Proves again whoever works at CNBC are just plane STUPID: The couple paid: 1. $1,600,000 the lot 2. $1,500,000 the renovations 3. $4,200,000 the upkeep cost ($700,000 annually X (2022-2016) = 4 years) Total expenses are $7,300,000 plus taxes so with the value of $6,000,000 (good luck if you sell for this amount) the couple is underwater with $1,300,000 Why they call it Make it ? It should be called "Loose IT"

[@BrenettaMadisonPodcast]

I love this! We are planning on starting or buying a campground! Thanks for sharing ❤

[@irmakalember3709]

I love this video. This is so nice and great family. Also to have that many people visit that’s amazing different countries too.

[@fjai2755]

Good for you guys. You have created a wonderful place!

[@kaze987]

Well done to these two! Takes money to make money. No griping about interest on their loans and skies the limit. Bought at the right time and now post-pandemic, all things point to success. $600k-$700k to run the place sounds about right so they are grossing 50% profit. Reinvesting it back into their business too. Amazing.

[@EverySingleDollar]

yes! 50% net profit is crazy good for a brick and mortar business.

[@andrewchapman5659]

Sort of - I believe a lot of their upgrades are also increasing their assets as well. Looks like the furniture is superb and a lot of good attractions etc. I think the cost to run the place will drop in the future say 4-5 years because of robotics.

[@AUniqueHandleName444]

lmao what robots do you think are going to make running a campground cheaper@@andrewchapman5659

[@familymanalways6237]

Great video. I'm looking forward to enjoying all your hard work in July when we visit for the week.

[@lilifreechannel414]

That surely must be the best kind of business partnership one can get into, with a trustworthy, caring life partner, they look like a solid couple and it helps greatly that both have that drive and mutual investment in the business, on eachother, and their future, it feels more reassuring to get into such great business venture when one isn't alone. I admire their partnership and commitment.

[@eveline1725]

What a great and inspiring couple!

[@icecube1212]

As a former now retired janitor , i am glad my sons are following my footsteps

[@JaydenHolland-wo4fd]

Did you make good money?

[@SIRHAINES]

Worth it, well done. The only way to make it is to take that RISK and step up.

[@BUCKSHOTSTV]

So inspiring! Loved the story of endurance and success

[@craigfuqua4519]

Good for you guys

[@kayleerivers2083]

I just looked at prices for tent site $57! A night?!? Bruh never will i pay almost 60 a night to camp! State parks free- local sites under 10. Y'all wild for those prices

[@benvasilinda9729]

As a business owner, I can completely respect what they’ve done. My father who was a very successful GM for higher end malls, hotels and hospitals gave me the best compliment ever when he said that he couldn’t fully comprehend that when I got up to go to work, that if I don’t have a successful day at work, I wouldn’t eat that day. He said that he respected the drive and confidence that I had in myself to know that I was going to be more successful than less successful because I had no other choice. While I had an immense amount of respect for my father and his jobs, I knew I would be shorting myself working for someone else. I need that dive for me to do better so I never settle for less than what I know I can do. I’m always so excited when I see others take a chance on themselves and persevere, this is why people came to this land and created America. The land of opportunity is truly being made everyday here.

[@Sunshine-hv6mg]

“ that if I don’t have a successful day at work, I wouldn’t eat that day.” that sounds really unhealthy and toxic…

[@humblebee7979]

💯❣️

[@LaLadybug2011]

@@Sunshine-hv6mg, I don't know about it being toxic but Iknow for me it would be anxiety inducing-and I don't have a problem with anxiety!

[@adammorra3813]

A bold move glad it worked.

[@pinball2002]

Been to many KOAs on my motorcycle trips. Haven’t found a bad one yet. Everyone seems to be very happy working there.

[@copeharderbro]

Its amazing to see how nice things can be when passion and purpose are at the forefront of the business.

[@doug8525]

I’m happy for both of you! When you’re doing something you love, it’s not work. I wish you every success........

[@Mr1wd]

Whatever you do, do it with passion.

[@taurahelms3068]

This story is inspirational and the reason I am pushing to get my fiction books published. I'm in a similar situation to Mark and would like to get out of it.

[@GrumpySalmon]

Ok

[@ModoNayr]

What are you writing about?

[@SamMcKinley]

I work for the railroad and am a bit tired. What is your profession?

[@arfriedman4577]

They made this pproperty beautiful. Ive never been into camping, but this looks wonderful.

[@og7952]

Smart move to de-risk it a little bit would be to sell 20% (or gradually sell) to a future owner that could learn the ropes.

[@stevenbaker7025]

Yeah this is one of those feel good stories that really speaks to a broader issue in the Eastern half of the US..lack of public land for dispersed camping!

[@theboringchannel2027]

Paid 1.6 million, invested 2.5 million, another loan for 1.5 mil. now worth an optimistic $6 million. So 5.6 mil into something that might be worth 6 mil, which after selling expense/comissions, might yield back 5.6 mil. Doesn't sound profitable. Sounds like a money sink eating up any and all profits.

[@stargazer5073]

Congratulations, may God bless you!!!!

[@rollotomassi6374]

A good friend of mine is building an RV / campground park near Tuscaloosa Alabama….he is projecting a total cost of 500,000 to build and his income estimate with bring him 25,000 to 50,000 a month depending on the seasons…..

[@foodNtravel87]

Lovely couple and smart move on this business!

[@nickhorton785]

Great story, good for you guys😀

[@dinam651]

Congratulations! All your hard work has paid off!

[@heyaswinp]

1.2 m revenues on 1.6 m property is great. profit percentage looks great too.

[@dens3096]

Proves again whoever works at CNBC are just plane STUPID: The couple paid: 1. $1,600,000 the lot 2. $1,500,000 the renovations 3. $4,200,000 the upkeep cost ($700,000 annually X (2022-2016) = 4 years) Total expenses are $7,300,000 plus taxes so with the value of $6,000,000 (good luck if you sell for this amount) the couple is underwater with $1,300,000 Why they call it Make it ? It should be called "Loose IT"

[@TM-tw1py]

So, it looks like $500K in net income and total acquisition price/funds of $3.1 million; the $500K in Net income is based on $1.2 m - $700K (assuming expenses do not cover debt service) indicating a 16% overall cap rate (before debt). Very nice return on your largely business income. Well done. Perhaps the camp ground can also be your home. And, you also have the ability to grow the business at your leisure, supply much of your own labor.

[@annahopp]

Y'all are completely nuts! I love it.

[@nicegurl408]

1.6M?? That’s less than all the small houses around here! The last campsite we went to was privately owned, so it got me thinking and now I’m watching this video 😊

[@sandygentry8455]

What’s good is that they are taking care of it, what’s sad is we’ve stopped at so many that are just nasty. Great for them.

[@mythicallegendary3992]

this is what I talk about all the time! I'd love to do this!

[@OldManandtheSuperC]

Campgrounds are a 2 fold investment. First is the land, second is the campground business. It obvious these folks put a huge amount of sweat equity into their ca o ground. Hard work! Great reward!

[@jasonmichael7365]

Wow what a very inspirational and motivational video talk about going all in. Respect!

[@kaytim414]

Pretty wild to put all your eggs in one basket, but they look like they're having a good time. I wonder how much they delegate and how much they do themselves.

[@samnihao6943]

It's wild in the US to pay 70$ in some campground for a spot for a tent. I ranted the whole villa with the swimming pool on Bali for ~76$ per night.

[@scottmichaels12]

Success? They paid $1.6 million. They said they reinvested another $1.5 million and their yearly expenses are $700K, plus they pay a 10% royalty fee to KOA, which puts their yearly at over $800K. I’m curious as to how involved they are required to be on a daily basis. Are they each putting in 70-80 hrs/week or more, or do they have a little more free time? When the wife said that they don’t think it’s realistic to think they will pay off the mortgage until they sell the business, that makes me think that they are working lots of hours to hopefully net $200-300K per year. That’s a nice salary, split between 2 people, but it sounds like they’re in a whole lot of debt! The $6 million valuation is nice but it’s really only worth what someone is willing to pay them for it.

[@redwolfexr]

You missed that this is 6 months a year seasonal. That was the difference in the new and the old owners, I suspect. The old ones took 6 months totally off a year and "worked" the minimum for the other 6. (likely just hired staff) The growth here is because they put their own time and work into it.

[@laurakilmer8652]

Good Luck. Dont let the BAD Rvers get to you. It can get rough sometimes.

[@MaxPower-uq4sz]

very impressive. well deserved for this people!

[@juandixonformvp]

Would they have taken the same risk with interest rates where they are now?

[@DerekDavis1986]

Amazing story!

[@jmisc]

Mom becomes ‘healthier’ as time goes. You can notice it through the clip

[@geraldkoth654]

Very wise to buy a KOA property. I travel full time, I stay in lots of Thousand Trails parks as they are "free" for me. When I am travelling from one park to another or to a different area, I always look for a KOA along the way first. If I find one where I want to spend the night, I book it. One, they always have a pull through for the overnighter, two, they are always near a travel route, three, they are always in good condition, four they are always helpful at the desk, five, I consider them always safe, six, I can book on line an absolute must for me. Do they cost more than some non franchised place, yes, about 25 to 50 percent more per night. Am I going to risk problems for $20, NOPE. I have stayed in two KOA parks on my travels from last fall to now that have brand new owners. I always relate that list I have to them to encourage them to be as successful as you seem to be.

[@Ulbre]

Great story, and let's not forget that the pandemic was smack in the middle of this. Kudo's to a hard working couple with not only a dream, but a plan!

[@ModoNayr]

Sounds perfect. They could even get a food truck, vending machines, and laundry mat for additional income.

[@STho205]

This situation is buying a job. It is OK but you are buying a business to be an employee of yourself. If the loans, payments, expenses, hired help/contractors add up to all but a salary you can find in someone else's business...you are buying a job. You're not buying security either as you can be shut down by weather catastrophe, personal illness, government deciding you can't be open for 15 days to flatten the curve becoming 15 months.... If you love it it is a great choice, like small family farming, a gas station, restaurant or a historic inn. If you don't... it's a job

[@what1864]

you sure the bank doesn't own it ? not trying to be disrespectful just tired of folks being duped into thinking they own something they don't , love that your living your dream, thought about doing the same thing love the campground atmosphere

[@benbohannon]

A few observations: 1) They had very little equity/savings for such a large purchase; thus a risky big bank loan. 2) They built some of the games and did much of the rehab work themselves, which is wild on such a large property. 3) They knew themselves well. They knew what made a great camping experience. They knew they were hard workers. And they knew they could re-enter the workforce it it all fell apart.

[@benbohannon]

Oh, and they had four great kids to live with in retirement if they lost it all 😂