Best of 2024: Selling a Micro-Hotel for $1M per Key - Isaac French - Founder of Experiential Hospitality
Jan 1, 2025
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Isaac French, Founder of Experiential Hospitality, has revolutionized the micro-resort scene with his acclaimed Live Oak Lake, which he sold for an impressive $1M per key. He shares his journey of launching the project, detailing the struggles and creative marketing strategies that led to its success. The conversation dives into the unique design elements that blend Scandinavian minimalism with Texan charm. Isaac also discusses the emotional challenges of selling a hospitality venture and why naivety can be a beneficial trait for entrepreneurs.
Isaac French's innovative approach to hospitality emphasizes the importance of aesthetics and guest experience, challenging conventional industry norms.
Leveraging social media and local collaborations helped Isaac build a strong online presence for Live Oak Lake, driving profitability through direct bookings.
His strategic decision to sell Live Oak Lake highlights the necessity of patience and adaptability during the sales process in hospitality ventures.
Deep dives
The Journey into Hospitality
Isaac French's transition into the hospitality industry was largely unplanned, but his experience as an entrepreneur and constructor laid a solid foundation for success. His passion for unique design and attention to detail resulted in the creation of Live Oak Lake, a micro-resort in Waco, Texas. Drawing inspiration from Scandinavian architecture and the landscapes of the Pacific Northwest, he aimed to establish a property that blended harmoniously with nature. With limited prior experience in hospitality, Isaac approached the venture with a fresh perspective, prioritizing aesthetics and guest experience over conventional industry limitations.
Social Media and Direct Bookings
Isaac harnessed the power of social media to propel Live Oak Lake's visibility and guest bookings, demonstrating the significance of personal branding in hospitality. Initially faced with the challenge of building awareness, he leveraged collaborations with local travel influencers to gain traction, resulting in a robust online presence. This strategy emphasized direct bookings, avoiding the fees associated with platforms like Airbnb, thus maximizing profitability. This unique marketing approach allowed him to connect personally with guests and foster lasting relationships beyond their initial visit.
The Importance of Design and Landscape
Design and landscape played crucial roles in defining both the aesthetic and experiential qualities of Live Oak Lake. Isaac emphasized the integration of architecture with the natural surroundings, utilizing dark exteriors and thoughtful landscaping to create an immersive environment. He believed that exceptional landscaping is foundational for creating memorable hospitality experiences, effectively setting the tone for guest interaction. This focus on blending the indoor and outdoor spaces highlighted the importance of providing an aesthetically pleasing backdrop that enhances the overall emotional connection guests have with the property.
Operational Efficiency and Automation
The operational strategy implemented at Live Oak Lake prioritized efficiency through automation and minimal staffing, drastically reducing overhead costs. Isaac utilized advanced property management software and smart home technology to streamline processes such as guest check-in and property management. This approach allowed him to maintain high service levels without the need for extensive staff, ultimately driving profitability. By fostering a self-sufficient system, he was able to focus on enhancing guest experiences and expanding marketing efforts.
Navigating the Sales Process
Isaac's decision to sell Live Oak Lake stemmed from a strategic assessment of market conditions and the value he had created. Initially set at a price lower than desired, he ultimately received offers that illustrated the strong demand for unique hospitality experiences. The first sale fell through due to financing issues, but he remained open to new offers, leading to a successful final sale at a substantial profit. This experience underscored the importance of patience and adaptability in the sales process, ultimately validating his decision to enter the hospitality market.
Future Aspirations in Agritourism
Drawing from his experiences at Live Oak Lake, Isaac is poised to expand his focus into the agritourism sector, capitalizing on his passion for landscape and design. He envisions creating a similar retreat that marries high-end hospitality with the principles of sustainable farming and immersive experiences. This shift reflects a deeper commitment to community engagement and a desire to incorporate regenerative agriculture into his brand. By leveraging his past success and the lessons learned, Isaac aims to create an enriching environment where guests can connect with nature and enjoy personalized experiences.
Isaac French crafts micro-resorts & boutique hotels. He designed, built, and sold the massively popular Live Oak Lake in Waco, Texas for $1M per key. He also founded Experiential Hospitality, an exclusive course and community for the next generation of hospitality trailblazers.