The Hotel Investor Playbook

We’ve all dreamt of quitting our bland corporate jobs to buy a hotel in Costa Rica… well, today’s guest did that.After leaving a private equity career in San Francisco, Bill Graf traded suits for surf towns and founded Onda, a hospitality brand in Costa Rica that blends the style of a boutique hotel with the social energy of a hostel.You’ll learn:How to uncover hidden opportunities in small hotels that big players ignoreWhat U.S. investors should know about buying real estate in Costa RicaHis unique strategy for keeping his properties full year-roundThis episode is a blueprint for spotting opportunities where others see risk… and will certainly have you daydreaming by the end of it!Follow along with The Hotel Investor Playbook to discover how to invest in hospitality assets the right way.About BillWilliam “Bill” Graf is the founder and CEO of ONDA, a hospitality collective in Costa Rica that blends boutique hotel comforts with the social energy of a hostel. A former investment banker and private equity professional, Bill left Wall Street in 2016 to travel the world, visiting over 50 countries and experiencing firsthand the challenges of inconsistent accommodations. Inspired to create a better model, he launched ONDA to deliver reliable, community-driven stays in lifestyle destinations where major hotel brands won’t go. Today, Bill is building ONDA into a global hospitality brand focused on culture, connection, and transformational guest experiences.Connect with BillWebsite: www.stayonda.comLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/williamgrafInstagram: @billygoat_graf and  @findyourondaConnect with Mike and Nate: Invest with Mike & Nate: malama-capital.com/investSubmit a deal: https://www.malama-capital.com/deal-submissionInstagram: @the_hotel_investor_playbookContact Us: info@hotelinvestorplaybook.com

In this discussion, Bob Rauch, known as 'The Hotel Guru,' shares insights from his 45+ years in the hospitality industry. He reveals how to identify hot markets and avoid profit-eating locations. Bob emphasizes the role of AI and robots in hotel operations, boosting productivity rather than immediate cost savings. He shares essential skills for aspiring investors and forecasts market stabilization by 2026. His experiences range from scaling a 20-hotel management company to his innovative strategies at Brick Hospitality, shaping the future of hotel investments.

Jan Freitag, the National Director of Hospitality Analytics at CoStar Group, offers keen insights into the hotel industry's future. He discusses why the market shifted to stagnation and the risks of rising expenses outpacing revenue growth. Jan highlights the luxury segment's resilience and how local market nuances impact recovery. He emphasizes the importance of data analytics in identifying investment opportunities and shares strategies for succeeding in the sub-$10M market amidst a challenging landscape.

Bashar Wali, a seasoned hotelier and founder of This Assembly and Practice Hospitality, shares his remarkable insights from over 30 years in the industry. He emphasizes the importance of emotional intelligence and authentic connections over corporate protocols. The discussion includes critical mistakes first-time hotel owners make and the nuances of different hotel deals. Bashar advocates for unique guest experiences and the value of heartfelt service, reshaping the way we think about hospitality.

In this conversation with Naveed Khan, COO of London Rock Partners, listeners gain insights into transforming struggling hotels into profitable ventures. Naveed emphasizes that success starts with people, not just financials. He explores the pros and cons of branded versus independent hotels, and how technology is revolutionizing hospitality operations. Additionally, he provides tactical advice for novice investors, highlighting the importance of operational efficiency and location in maximizing returns.

Richard Kessler, a visionary hotelier with over 50 years in hospitality, shares key insights from his remarkable career. He talks about scaling Days Inn and launching Marriott’s Autograph Collection, focusing on finding opportunities during downturns. Kessler emphasizes the importance of reputation, vision, and teamwork in building lasting brands. He also reflects on how simple advice from his mother shaped his approach to success, proving that hard work and perseverance are essential in overcoming challenges in the industry.

Soli Cayetano, a real estate investor and boutique hotel owner, shares her inspiring journey from barista to a $13M portfolio. She reveals how she raised $2.5M in just 60 days using Instagram, highlighting the power of storytelling and personal branding. The conversation dives into the booming wellness trend in hospitality and the nuances of transitioning from residential to boutique hotel investments. Soli emphasizes the importance of building trust and relationships while navigating the challenges of the hospitality sector, making bold moves crucial for success.

Brandon Gore, a designer and builder with a passion for sustainable construction, discusses his innovative approach to developing The Outlier Hotel in Arkansas. He shares how intuition and data guided his land purchase decision and why he opted for a joint venture model instead of traditional syndication. The conversation dives into the luxury lodging market, unique architectural designs, and the importance of aligning projects with personal values. Brandon also highlights the financial advantages of accelerated depreciation and the power of trusting one’s instincts in real estate opportunities.

Steph Weber, a branding strategist and founder of The Weber Co., shares her insights on marketing for small hotels. She reveals how to identify your property's unique selling points and leverage limited resources for maximum results. Steph emphasizes the significance of guest experience as a powerful marketing tool and the shift from merely filling rooms to building a memorable brand. With her real-world experience owning a micro-resort, she provides actionable strategies to stand out in a crowded market.

Join Jonathan Mueller, a hands-on real estate investor and hospitality entrepreneur, as he shares his journey transforming neglected motels and campgrounds into thriving community spots. He discusses the importance of taking action instead of waiting for the perfect plan, revealing how he raised $300K in just 72 hours for an RV park deal. Learn about the pros and cons of motels versus RV parks, the nuances of seller financing, and how to navigate the challenges in hospitality investment while balancing risk and personal fulfillment.