The Hotel Investor Playbook

Join Mike and Nate, founders of Malama Capital, as they explore the critical role of a well-defined investment thesis in the hospitality industry. With $30 million in current real estate assets and a goal to build a $400 million business, they share detailed insights on creating and refining an investment strategy. From understanding guest avatars to leveraging capital expenditures and occupancy rates, this episode is packed with practical advice for both novice deal finders and seasoned investors. They highlight the importance of clarity, market research, and realistic benchmarks to ensure profitable hospitality acquisitions. Tune in to learn how to protect investor capital while achieving outstanding results. Don't miss out on their tips for navigating the complexities of hospitality assets and maximizing value through strategic property improvements.Connect with Mike and Nate:Instagram: @the_hotel_investor_playbook Contact Us: info@hotelinvestorplaybook.comInvest with us: Visit Malama-Capital.com for more information.

Ever wondered what it takes to transform an empty building or raw land into a thriving hotel? In this episode of The Hotel Investor Playbook, we’re diving deep into the real estate development process with architect and developer Zeke Freeman.With over 20 years of experience and a current ground-up hotel project near the iconic Red Rocks Amphitheater, Zeke walks us through the entire journey—from identifying the right property to navigating zoning, entitlements, and building permits. We tackle the nitty-gritty of feasibility studies, managing risk, raising capital, and assembling a winning team of architects, contractors, and consultants. Plus, Zeke shares insider tips on designing for guest experience and maximizing your ROI.If you’re looking to learn how to turn your vision into reality, avoid costly mistakes, and create a property that stands out in the hospitality market, this episode is packed with actionable insights.In this episode, you’ll learn:•How to approach property conversions, like turning office space into a hotel.•The step-by-step process of entitlements, permits, and design.•The crucial roles of your development team—and how to find the right players.•Creative ways to manage risk and raise capital.•The financial breakdown of a real-world hotel development project.Whether you’re a seasoned investor or just getting started in hospitality, this episode is your blueprint for success. Don’t miss it!🎧 Listen now and take your first step toward building the hotel of your dreams!Connect with Zeke Freeman:Instagram: @rootzekefreemanhttps://root-ad.com/LinkedIn: @zeke-freeman-20183020/YouTube: Radical Hospitality ShowConnect with Mike and Nate:Instagram: @the_hotel_investor_playbook Contact Us: info@hotelinvestorplaybook.comInvest with us: Visit Malama-Capital.com for more information.

In this episode, we dive deep into the inspiring journey of Alex Kang, who purchased his first boutique hotel with no prior experience while maintaining a full-time W2 job.Alex shares his step-by-step process, from leveraging his skills from his MBA and software tech job, to joining a mastermind group that accelerated his learning.He emphasizes the importance of mentorship, partnership, and leveraging his W2 network to raise funds for his $9 million hotel project.Kang provides practical advice on time management, setting clear goals, disciplined prospecting, and staying motivated through challenges.Whether you're juggling a full-time job or looking to dive into hotel investments, this episode is packed with invaluable nuggets for aspiring hotel investors.About Alex Kang:Alex Kang’s journey is a testament to perseverance and adaptability. After immigrating to Vancouver, Canada, as a teenager, Alex pursued a business education in Montreal and earned his CPA while working for a Big 4 accounting firm. Seeking bigger opportunities, he moved to Los Angeles to earn his MBA, which opened doors to management consulting and eventually a career in the tech industry.Alongside his professional journey, Alex developed a passion for real estate, starting with an ADU conversion at his primary residence and expanding to Airbnb properties in San Diego. Most recently, he co-acquired a boutique hotel and is actively involved in its rebrand and stabilization. Alex’s current pursuits span entrepreneurship, fitness franchising, small business acquisitions, and continued growth in the hospitality space.Connect with Alex Kang:instagram: @s.alex.kanghttps://www.primeridgeinvestment.com/Connect with Mike and Nate:Instagram: @the_hotel_investor_playbook Contact Us: info@hotelinvestorplaybook.comInvest with us: Visit Malama-Capital.com for more information.

With over 100,000 hotels in the United States, approximately 70% operate as branded or flagged hotels. But why is that? If you’re considering purchasing a hotel and debating between going independent or affiliating with a recognized brand, this episode is a must-listen.We’re joined by hospitality industry expert Neil Shah, who brings over 25 years of experience in hotel investing, with 13 hotels and 471 units purchased under his belt. Neil has worked with six different hotel franchises, including well-known names like Best Western, Hampton Inn, and Howard Johnson. Together, we explore the advantages and trade-offs of operating as a branded hotel versus staying independent.From understanding brand support and marketing power to evaluating franchise fees and operational restrictions, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you make an informed decision for your next hotel investment.Tune in for invaluable takeaways and expert advice. Let’s dive in!Connect with Neil Shah:Intagram: @nilang007https://www.inntechhospitality.comConnect with Mike and Nate:Instagram: @the_hotel_investor_playbook Contact Us: info@hotelinvestorplaybook.comInvest with us: Visit Malama-Capital.com for more information.

In this episode of the Hotel Investor Playbook, hosts Mike and Nate sit down with Gideon Spencer, the principal of Stonemont Capital, who purchased a $6 million hotel at the age of 32. Gideon shares his journey from starting in real estate with a fourplex to acquiring a boutique hotel, providing invaluable insights into market research, capital raising, and deal validation. The episode delves into practical steps for finding and analyzing hospitality deals, the importance of building broker relationships, and effective capital-raising strategies. Gideon emphasizes the significance of aligning with experts to scale investments and offers motivational advice on overcoming self-limiting beliefs. Tune in to uncover the secrets behind creating wealth and freedom through boutique hotel ownership.Connect with Mike and Nate:Instagram: @the_hotel_investor_playbook Contact Us: info@hotelinvestorplaybook.comInvest with us: Visit Malama-Capital.com for more information.

In this episode of the Hotel Investor Playbook, Michael and Nathan dive into the essential topic of hospitality operations, exploring the less-discussed but crucial aspects that drive a thriving hotel business. The conversation reveals how to navigate common operational pitfalls, emphasizing the importance of delivering exceptional guest experiences and building efficient systems. The episode covers a range of topics including the integral role of reviews, leveraging technology, implementing the EOS system, and setting up detailed processes to ensure smooth and scalable operations. Listeners are provided actionable insights and a step-by-step guide on auditing reviews, managing guest experiences, and creating 'wow' moments that lead to financial success and personal fulfillment in the hospitality industry.Accountability Tool Link:https://www.hotelinvestorplaybook.com/p/accountability-tool/Connect with Mike and Nate:Instagram: @the_hotel_investor_playbook Contact Us: info@hotelinvestorplaybook.comInvest with us: Visit Malama-Capital.com for more information.

In this episode of the Hotel Investor Playbook, Mike and Nate introduce Kassidy Warren, a former corporate executive who transformed his life by diving into the world of short-term rentals and is now purchasing boutique hotels. Kassidy began his journey in 2015, renting out a spare bedroom for $35 per night, and now oversees a $12 million property portfolio across five states. This episode covers Kassidy's evolution from house hacking to becoming a savvy investor, focusing on high-design concepts and memorable guest experiences. Discussions explore the strategic shift from investing in residential STR's to boutique hotels, leveraging properties, financial freedom, and tax-saving strategies like 1031 exchanges and cost segregation. Kassidy emphasizes mindset, fitness, and resilience in his journey, while revealing his ambitious future goals and the importance of networking. Tune in for an inspiring story filled with actionable insights on real estate investing and the pursuit of dreams.Connect with Mike and Nate:Instagram: @the_hotel_investor_playbook Contact Us: info@hotelinvestorplaybook.comInvest with us: Visit Malama-Capital.com for more information.

In this episode, hosts Michael Russell and Nathan St. Cyr delve into the value of attending mastermind conferences and networking events. They reflect on their recent 10-day tour of educational meetups, discussing key takeaways on boutique hotel investing, particularly focusing on operations, deal finding, capital raising, and marketing. The episode highlights the benefits of unique hospitality experiences and effective team building, emphasizing the importance of seeing the highest and best use of spaces. Notable insights include the long-term value of networking with industry experts like Ben Wolff and Devon Towle, the innovative business ventures such as floating homes and themed movie sets, and the transformative power of vulnerability and introspection in professional growth. Listeners are encouraged to assess their own journey to maximize the return on investment from such events, considering both the financial and personal growth aspects!Connect with Mike and Nate:Instagram: @the_hotel_investor_playbook Contact Us: info@hotelinvestorplaybook.comInvest with us: Visit Malama-Capital.com for more information.

In this episode of the Hotel Investor Playbook, Michael Russell and Nathan St. Cyr share insights into the lucrative world of boutique hotel investments. They recount their journey from real estate investments in single-family homes and vacation rentals to leveraging boutique hotels for high cashflow and significant equity gains. The hosts elaborate on the unique opportunity this asset class presents, including less competition, fewer regulations, and potential seller financing options. They emphasize the artistic and financial fulfillment derived from creating unique guest experiences in boutique hospitality, making it an attractive option for real estate investors seeking both immediate cashflow and long-term equity growth. Mike and Nate provide strategies and frameworks to help investors capitalize on this underappreciated segment of the real estate market, demonstrating its potential as the fastest path to financial freedom.Connect with Mike and Nate:Instagram: @the_hotel_investor_playbook Contact Us: info@hotelinvestorplaybook.comInvest with us: Visit Malama-Capital.com for more information.

In this premiere trailer of The Hotel Investor Playbook, hosts Michael Russell and Nathan St Cyr dive into what their new podcast is all about. Get to know the duo behind Malama Capital and Howzit Hostels as they pull back the curtain on their experiences in the world of boutique hotels and experiential lodging properties. Discover why they've chosen this path, the passion that fuels their investment decisions, and what listeners can expect in upcoming episodes. From success stories to actionable strategies, this episode sets the stage for a podcast designed to help you turn your own hotel investment dreams into reality. Tune in for a taste of the expert advice and insider knowledge that will guide you in navigating the world of boutique hotel ownership.Connect with Mike and Nate:Instagram: @the_hotel_investor_playbook Contact Us: info@hotelinvestorplaybook.comInvest with us: Visit Malama-Capital.com for more information.