Opinion Articles

Show Me You Know How to Value a Hotel

Take my hotel valuation quiz, and if you come within 5% plus or minus of the value, I will send you a free copy of my Hotel Market Analysis and Valuation Software—a $250 value—and recognize your achievement in my next Rushmore on Hotel Valuation newsletter. If you don’t come up with the correct value, I will give you a $200 off coupon so you can purchase the software for $50. So everyone is a winner!!

Jacksonville, FL Supports a Robust Hotel Development Pipeline Despite Economic Uncertainty

While many U.S. markets have experienced a slowdown in hotel development amid rising construction costs, increasing financing costs, and general uncertainty, the greater Jacksonville market area has continued to support a robust hotel development pipeline. Factors contributing to this growth include ongoing infrastructure projects in the market, such as the JAXPORT dredging project and Interstate 295 expansion; the ongoing work of the Jacksonville Downtown Investment Authority (DIA) to broaden the city’s appeal as an international business destination; and the availability of land suitable for development.Thus, contrary to other large U.S. markets, Jacksonville did not experience a slowdown of new supply in the post-pandemic period, with over 9% of Duval County’s roughly 20,000 guestrooms being added from January 2021 through June 2024. The following properties represent some of the market’s most noteworthy additions during that period:

Projecting into an AI Future

The world of hospitality has seen remarkable changes over the past few decades, driven by advancements in technology. As a hotel project director with decades of experience, overseeing over 20 hotel openings and renovations, integrating artificial intelligence into the field raises significant questions and opportunities.

How the Right Asset Management Firm Helps Optimize Hotel Investments

When implemented effectively, partnering with the right asset management firm can help maximize investor returns and real estate property values. Asset management is particularly important in this post-pandemic environment where macroeconomic conditions are in constant flux, geopolitical issues continue to intensify, and domestic monetary policy has considerable implications for real estate wealth management.

Streamline Hotel Budgeting: Why Hoteliers Should Adopt Budgeting Software Now

Effective financial management is paramount for the success of a hotel business. One of the critical aspects of financial management is budgeting, a process that traditionally involves significant time, effort, and coordination among various departments within a hotel organization. However, with the advent and adoption of modern budgeting technology, hoteliers can streamline their annual financial budgeting processes and dedicate fewer resources toward building an accurate budget.

5 Reasons to Celebrate Your Night Auditor on May 18

On May 18, Otelier is once again asking hotel leaders to come together to shine a spotlight on the dedicated overnight crews that keep our establishments running seamlessly through the night. We have several ways you can recognize their hard work this year, including nominating exceptional team members for 2024 Night Auditor of the Year.

A New Approach to Estimate the Return on the Equity in the Mortgage-Equity Valuation Technique

In my previous newsletters, I describe the virtues of utilizing the mortgage-equity technique when valuing hotels and other types of income properties. This newsletter will explain how to determine the return on the equity component which is based more on the transaction market rather than the financial market. My approach will probably surprise you.

Telecom Compliance in Hotels

A Certificate of Occupancy (C.O.) is a vital requirement prior to opening your hotel after a new build/renovation (without it you’re subject to massive, compounding fines!). Because of the necessity of this certification, you’ll want to work it in to your construction plans from the very beginning to avoid any project delays.

Downtown Baltimore Is Poised for Comeback

According to STR, average hotel rates in the Baltimore Central Business District through year-to-date September 2023 have surpassed 2019 levels by nearly $18, caused by stable demand levels and the impact of inflation. Occupancy has yet to rebound to pre-pandemic levels, but the return-to-office efforts and investment in leisure demand generators should support the ongoing recovery. Although the city is currently in a transitional phase, financial commitments and plans from stakeholders, as described below, should position Baltimore for a resurgence as a destination to live and visit.