Are Condo-Hotels A Bad Investment? Navigating the Risks and Rewards
As an aspiring commercial real estate investor, you may have come across the concept of condo-hotels and found yourself intrigued by the idea of owning a piece of a luxurious vacation property that generates relatively passive rental income.
Condo-hotels , also known as condotels, have gained popularity in recent years as a seemingly attractive investment opportunity, particularly in prime tourist destinations (like here in Nashville). The allure of a hands-off investment that combines the benefits of real estate ownership with the amenities and services of a high-end hotel can be hard to resist.
However, before jumping into a condo-hotel investment, it's crucial to take a closer look at the potential risks and drawbacks that come with this unique ownership structure. While condo-hotels may offer the promise of passive income and a slice of the vacation lifestyle, they often carry significant risks that can outweigh the potential rewards for most investors.
Let’s dive deep into the world of condo-hotels, examining the factors that make them a potentially risky investment and exploring alternative strategies for those seeking to build wealth through commercial real estate.
What Are Condo-Hotels?
Condo-hotels, as the name suggests, are a hybrid between a condominium and a hotel. In a condo-hotel, individual investors purchase a specific unit within the property, which they can use for personal vacations or short-term stays. When the owner is not occupying the unit, they have the option to participate in the hotel's rental program, allowing the hotel management to rent out the unit to guests, similar to a traditional hotel room. The revenue generated from these rentals is then split between the owner and the hotel management company, with the owner receiving a portion of the income after deducting management fees and other expenses.
Condo-hotels differ from traditional hotels in that the units are individually owned rather than being owned by a single entity. This ownership structure allows investors to hold title to a specific unit and potentially benefit from any appreciation in the property's value over time. On the other hand, traditional condominiums are primarily residential properties where owners have full control over their units and are not typically part of a rental program managed by a hotel operator.
The typical ownership structure and rental program arrangements in a condo-hotel can vary from one property to another. In most cases, owners purchase a fully furnished unit and have the option to use it for a limited number of days each year, often ranging from 30 to 60 days. During the remainder of the year, the unit is placed in the hotel's rental program, and the hotel management company is responsible for marketing, booking, and maintaining the unit. The revenue split between the owner and the management company can vary, but it's common for the owner to receive around 50-60% of the rental income generated by their unit, with the management company retaining the rest to cover their expenses and fees.
2. The Appeal of Condo-hotel Investments
The appeal of condo-hotel investments lies in several factors that can make them seem like an attractive option for those looking to diversify their real estate portfolio.
They Can Generate Passive Income
One of the primary draws is the potential for passive income through rental revenue. When you invest in a condo-hotel, you have the opportunity to generate income from your unit when you're not using it yourself. This can be particularly appealing if you're considering a condo hotel in Nashville, where the thriving tourism industry and growing popularity as a vacation destination can potentially lead to high occupancy rates and steady rental returns.
Own Vacation Retreats Wherever You Want
Another appealing aspect of condo-hotel investments is the opportunity to own a vacation property in a prime location. Many condo-hotels are situated in highly desirable tourist areas, such as beachfront resorts, ski destinations, or vibrant city centers like downtown Nashville. Owning a piece of property in these sought-after locations can provide a sense of prestige and the convenience of having a personal vacation retreat that you can use whenever you want.
Luxurious Experiences with Amenities and Services
Condo-hotels also offer access to luxury amenities and hotel-style services that can elevate your vacation experience. These properties often feature high-end facilities such as spa and wellness centers, fitness studios, gourmet restaurants, and concierge services. As an owner, you can enjoy these amenities during your personal stays, giving you a taste of the luxury lifestyle without the hassle of maintaining and managing the facilities yourself.
Easy Entrance into Real Estate Investments
Furthermore, condo-hotels are often marketed as a low-maintenance, hands-off ownership experience. The hotel management company typically takes care of all aspects of property management, including maintenance, repairs, and guest services. This can be particularly appealing for investors who want to own a vacation property without the day-to-day responsibilities and time commitment that come with traditional vacation home ownership. The perceived ease of ownership and the ability to generate passive income can make condo-hotels seem like a turnkey investment solution.
3. The Risks and Drawbacks of Condo-Hotel Investments
Despite the attractive aspects of condo-hotel investments, there are significant risks and drawbacks that potential investors must carefully consider before making a purchase.
The Numbers Often Don’t work for an Investment
One of the primary concerns is the high upfront costs and premium pricing associated with condo-hotels. Compared to traditional condos, condo-hotels often come with a higher price tag due to their prime locations, luxurious amenities, and the potential for rental income. This premium pricing can make it challenging for investors to achieve a strong return on investment, especially if they are relying on rental income to offset their expenses.
Higher Management and Oversight Fees
Another significant drawback of condo-hotel investments is the substantial management fees and operating expenses that can eat into rental income. When you invest in a condo hotel in Nashville or any other location, you'll typically be required to pay management fees, which can range from 25% to 50% of your rental revenue. Additionally, you'll be responsible for paying your share of the property's operating expenses, such as maintenance, utilities, and insurance. These costs can quickly add up and significantly reduce your net rental income.
Your Hotel Management Company Will Make or Break You
Condo-hotel investors are also heavily dependent on the hotel operator's performance and the success of the rental program. If the hotel management company fails to effectively market and manage the property, occupancy rates and rental income can suffer. This reliance on a third party to generate income can be a significant risk, as investors have little control over the hotel's operations and decision-making process.
You Don’t Really Have Control of Your Own Property
Furthermore, condo-hotel owners often have limited control over rental rates, occupancy, and property management decisions. The hotel management company typically sets rental rates based on market conditions and revenue management strategies, which may not always align with individual owners' interests. Owners may also have little say in how the property is managed and maintained, which can lead to potential conflicts of interest between individual owners and the hotel management.
Higher Interest Rates and Less Favorable Loan Terms
Another significant challenge for condo-hotel investors is the difficulty in obtaining financing. Most traditional lenders consider condo-hotels to be non-warrantable, meaning they don't meet the standard underwriting criteria for conventional mortgage loans. This can make it harder for investors to secure financing and may require them to explore alternative lending options, which can come with higher interest rates and less favorable terms.
Limited Upside Potential on Resale
Condo-hotels also tend to have limited appreciation potential and can face resale challenges in a niche market. Unlike traditional real estate investments, condo-hotels are often valued based on their income-generating potential rather than comparable sales. This means that even if the property appreciates in value, owners may not see a significant increase in their unit's resale price. Additionally, the resale market for condo-hotels can be limited, as buyers are typically looking for a combination of personal use and investment potential, which can make it harder to find qualified buyers when it's time to sell.
They Don’t Fare Well in Economic Downturns
Lastly, condo-hotel investments are particularly vulnerable to economic downturns, travel trends, and local market conditions. During times of economic uncertainty or when travel demand declines, occupancy rates and rental income can suffer, leaving owners struggling to cover their expenses. In the case of a condo hotel in Nashville, the local market's dependence on tourism and the overall health of the city's economy can significantly impact the performance of the investment.
4. Alternatives to Condo-Hotel Investments
For investors seeking exposure to the vacation rental market or the hospitality industry without the risks associated with condo-hotels, there are several alternatives worth considering.
Purchase a Standalone Vacation Rental
One option is to invest in traditional vacation rental properties in resort destinations. By purchasing a standalone vacation home or a condominium in a resort area, investors can enjoy more control over their property and potentially generate rental income without the constraints of a hotel rental program. This approach allows for more flexibility in terms of personal use, rental rates, and property management decisions. And, at the end of the day, these standalone units often aren’t that far off in pricing from condo-hotel units.
Create your Own Boutique Hotel
Another alternative is to raise capital for a larger asset that the investor solely controls, such as a smaller boutique hotel. By pursuing a syndication or crowdfunding strategy, investors can pool resources from multiple individuals to acquire a more substantial property with greater income potential. This approach allows the lead investor to maintain control over the property's operations and decision-making while benefiting from the shared capital and risk among the investment group. By carefully structuring the investment and aligning the interests of all parties involved, investors can potentially create a more lucrative and stable investment opportunity compared to condo-hotels.
Purchase Shares of Publicly Traded REITs
Investors who want to gain exposure to the hospitality industry without the responsibilities of direct property ownership can consider investing in real estate investment trusts (REITs) that specialize in hospitality properties. REITs are publicly traded companies that own and operate income-generating real estate assets, allowing investors to buy shares and participate in the profits without directly managing the properties. By investing in a diversified portfolio of hospitality REITs, investors can potentially benefit from the growth and income potential of the industry while mitigating the risks associated with owning a single property.
Look Outside of Hospitality Altogether
Finally, aspiring commercial real estate investors may find better opportunities by exploring other asset classes with stronger investment fundamentals. For example, multifamily apartments, office buildings, retail centers, and industrial properties can offer more stable cash flows, longer lease terms, and greater potential for appreciation compared to condo-hotels. By focusing on asset classes with proven track records and well-established investment strategies, investors can build a more diversified and resilient commercial real estate portfolio that aligns with their long-term financial goals.
5. Key Factors to Consider Before Investing in a Condo-Hotel
If, despite the significant risks and drawbacks, you're still considering investing in a condo-hotel, it's crucial to approach the decision with extreme caution and thorough due diligence.
Be Sure You Understand The Team Behind the Deal
Before taking the plunge, you must carefully evaluate the property, developer, and management company. Look for a track record of success, financial stability, and a strong reputation in the industry. Be wary of developers or management companies with limited experience or a history of underperforming properties, as this could be a red flag for potential issues down the line. Whenever I’m looking at deals like this, I always have my attorney check to see the developer’s or management team’s history of lawsuits.
Be Conservative with Your Return Projections
When analyzing the investment potential of a condo-hotel, it's essential to use conservative underwriting and have realistic expectations for rental income and appreciation. Don't rely solely on the developer's projections or marketing materials, which may be overly optimistic. Instead, conduct your own market research, assess comparable properties, and factor in potential vacancies, economic downturns, and other risks that could impact your returns. Keep in mind that condo-hotels are often priced at a premium, and appreciation may be limited compared to traditional real estate investments.
Get Your Attorney Involved Early!
It's also critical to thoroughly understand the legal structure, ownership rights, and potential liabilities associated with the condo-hotel investment. Carefully review the purchase agreement, rental program contract, and any other legal documents to ensure you fully grasp your rights and responsibilities as an owner. Pay close attention to any restrictions on personal use, rental income splits, and the hotel management's authority over your unit. Be aware of any potential liabilities, such as shared responsibility for common area expenses or the risk of assessments for property improvements.
Does a Condo-hotel Really Make Sense?
Before investing in a condo-hotel, honestly assess your personal usage needs and whether the condo-hotel model aligns with your lifestyle and goals. If you plan to use the unit frequently for personal vacations, make sure the allotted usage time and any blackout dates or restrictions work with your schedule. Consider whether the location, amenities, and overall atmosphere of the condo-hotel fit your preferences and expectations for a vacation property.
Rely On Your Team, But Verify…
Finally, it's imperative to consult with experienced real estate professionals and legal advisors who have expertise in condo-hotel investments. Seek out a real estate agent or broker who specializes in this niche market and can provide valuable insights and guidance throughout the purchasing process, but verify what they say. Real estate agents are compensated when a deal closes!
Engage a qualified attorney to review the legal documents and help you navigate any potential pitfalls or challenges. By leveraging the knowledge and expertise of these professionals, you can make a more informed decision and potentially mitigate some of the risks associated with condo-hotel investments.
6. Do Your Due Diligence
Condo-hotels present a unique investment opportunity that combines the benefits of vacation property ownership with the potential for rental income. However, as we've explored throughout this blog post, these investments come with significant risks and drawbacks that aspiring commercial real estate investors must carefully consider, including:
High upfront costs
Substantial management fees
Lower potential for decent investment returns
Lack of control over rental rates and property management decisions
Unfavorable loan terms from banks
and more
When evaluating a condo hotel in Nashville or any other location, it's crucial to approach the decision with a thorough understanding of the risks involved and a clear alignment with your individual investment goals and objectives. While the allure of owning a piece of a luxurious vacation property in a prime destination like Nashville can be tempting, it's essential to base your decision on sound due diligence, realistic expectations, and a careful consideration of the potential drawbacks.
Ultimately, the viability of condo-hotels as an investment strategy for aspiring commercial real estate investors depends on a variety of factors, including personal risk tolerance, financial goals, and long-term investment horizons. For some investors, the potential benefits of condo-hotel ownership may outweigh the risks, particularly if they value the lifestyle aspects and personal usage opportunities provided by these properties. However, for many others, the significant challenges and limitations associated with condo-hotels may make alternative investment strategies, such as traditional vacation rentals, syndications, or other commercial real estate asset classes, more appealing and potentially more profitable in the long run.
As with any major investment decision, it's essential to conduct thorough research, consult with experienced professionals, and carefully weigh the pros and cons before committing to a condo-hotel investment. By approaching the opportunity with a critical eye, a deep understanding of the risks involved, and a clear alignment with your personal investment goals, you can make an informed decision that supports your long-term financial success in the dynamic world of commercial real estate investing.
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