Couple Transforms New Hampshire Farmhouse into Thriving Hostel

Serena Ryan and Justin Walsh launched Notch Hostel in North Woodstock, New Hampshire, converting an 1890 farmhouse into a 30-bed accommodation for hikers. The couple aimed to live in the White Mountains and address a shortage of clean lodging for the hiking community. Ryan was inspired by a memoir about the Appalachian Trail, identifying a need in Woodstock, NH. Walsh, who worked in construction, saw an opportunity to live full-time in the mountains.

They purchased the 3,590-square-foot farmhouse in October 2014 for $290,000, making a 20% down payment of $58,000. A unique aspect of the property was the absence of zoning laws in the town, which allowed them to bypass commercial zoning petitions. Additionally, the house was the last in town to be connected to municipal water and sewage, saving them significant costs associated with installing a private septic system for a commercial property.

Renovations, funded by a $60,000 personal line of credit, transformed the five-bedroom, seven-bath residence into the Notch Hostel. The primary renovation expense involved adding fire suppression systems. The business achieved six-figure revenues within its first year of operation, demonstrating the viability of their venture in the popular hiking region.