Let me tell you how I got into the Michigan bed and breakfast inn business. I am a Real Estate Broker (www.dianesanborn.com) in the greater Lansing area and with the market in a serious slump, I needed another source of income.
The historic main house was built in 1906 by the Lansing City attorney. It was later purchased by an employee of REO (Oldsmobile) who became the CEO of the company. After that, it became a doctor’s office for the next 30 years. I purchased the home in 1988, restored it to residential use, and moved into it in 1990.
While enjoying my park-like back yard on Memorial Day, I got the “bright” idea to purchase the rundown apartment house next door. The “cottage” was built in 1896 and was a five-unit rental property in great disrepair when I bought it in June of 2007. After major repair and remodel work was completed, I held a ribbon cutting ceremony for the Cozy Koi Bed and Breakfast on September 25, 2007!
The accommodations include 3 guestrooms in the main house and 5 in the cottage. I added the ponds and gazebo in 2000-2002 and love the beauty and tranquility they provide. Relax in the shade of the tallest oak tree in downtown Lansing while listening to the hypnotic Koi pond and water falls.
I have had guests from all over the world and even had a segment for a TV program filmed here! Local independent film makers made a movie in the main house named Gemini. I look forward to many years of providing B&B lodging accommodations for travelers to the Lansing, Michigan area and serving them delicious hot breakfasts.