How big of a deal is distance?

[bright sparks]

I think within close proximity to major highways is a huge plus, definitely not out of the way in the sticks. I don't think your garden needs to be huge just adequate but then I know a lot of providers who don't even have a fenced in space but still manage to fill up as they go to a park almost daily so the kids still get plenty of outdoor time and exercise. This is already a VERY isolating industry and being in the middle of nowhere is not a good business decision or personal one I would advise when doing this job. Not to say you couldn't get children in a rural location but you would dramatically reduce your potential clientele that's for sure. As 5LM said the walk to get ice cream or to parks and splash pads is wonderful to be able to do in the summer and is a great social activity for the provider regardless of whether or not you have large back garden. It's also really nice to walk around the neighborhood with them all in the stroller or in wagons and say hello to people and get to know your neighbors. I can't imagine you would get any complaints from anyone as long as the kids aren't acting like wild animals lol a town home may be more of a risk but then I would have the daycare in the basement if that was the case and at least that might be better for the neighbors not hearing anything in their main living area.