Why Real Estate Projects Fail: Lessons from Asia’s Skeleton Structures

Why Real Estate Projects Fail: Lessons from Asia’s Skeleton Structures

Asia’s Real Estate Landscape is Littered with Unfinished Dreams

Many abandoned projects never made it to completion. These “skeleton structures” serve as cautionary tales of what happens when planning, execution, and foresight go awry. A prominent example is the Sheraton Phu Quoc, originally conceptualized in 2016 but now lying dormant in 2025.

Sheraton Phu Quoc Orginal Render

 

Sheraton Phu Quoc Now 2025

So, why do these failures happen? Understanding the root causes is the first step in avoiding the same fate.

Top Reasons Why Projects Fail:

1. Underestimating Timelines:
Luxury developments are not quick endeavors. Many require 5–11 years from concept to opening. Unrealistic schedules derail even the most promising projects.

2. Poor Site Suitability Studies:
Inadequate analysis of costs, accessibility, and environmental challenges often leads to unforeseen roadblocks.

3. Lack of Feasibility Studies:
Without understanding market demand and financial viability, projects are set up to fail from the start.

4. Unqualified Advisors:
Decisions based on advice from “friends in construction” instead of seasoned professionals often lead to costly mistakes.

5. Insufficient Funding:
Development requires a solid financial plan, covering expenses from acquisition through post-opening operations.

6. Operator Misalignment:
Many developers don’t understand the requirements of hotel operators, leading to clashes and delays.

7. Wrong Team Structure:
Hiring architects before assembling an experienced client representation team often results in inefficiencies.

8. Neglecting Regulations:
Permitting, infrastructure planning, and code compliance are critical and time-consuming but often overlooked.

Conclusion:
Real estate development is complex and unforgiving to errors. However, these lessons can help avoid common pitfalls. Stay tuned for the next blog, where we discuss how to turn these skeletons into profitable opportunities.

Have you encountered or inherited a failing project? Let’s connect below and discuss strategies to revive it!

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Raising $1 Million for My Real Estate Deal

Raising $1 Million for My Real Estate Deal

Raising capital for the first time can seem daunting, but with the right preparation and persistence, it is possible. As a new real estate investor seeking $1 million for my next deal, I know I have some mental hurdles to overcome. By thinking through key questions and developing a strategy, however, I can position myself for success.

To start, I need to thoroughly prepare for each investor conversation. This includes researching the investor’s prior deals and preferred investment types. I’ll tailor my pitch accordingly, highlighting the key points that matter most to that particular investor. I’ll practice my pitch multiple times so I can present confidently.

During the presentation, I’ll need to succinctly yet compellingly communicate the deal’s financials and projected results. Investors will want to know the capitalization rate, cash-on-cash return, debt service coverage ratio, loan terms, exit strategy, and estimated profit and timeline. I’ll prepare a one-page deal summary and presentation to communicate this clearly.

Raising capital does involve risks, like any investment. I need to be upfront about the risks involved in this deal, such as delays in securing permits or unforeseen repairs. Savvy investors will respect this transparency. I can demonstrate my experience managing risks by highlighting past deals successfully executed.

To raise capital legally, I’ll form an LLC and offer potential investors private placement memorandums with disclaimers as appropriate. I’ll be careful not to implicitly or explicitly promise returns. I’ll also research state and federal regulations to ensure compliance.

Differentiating myself will also be critical. With many real estate deals competing for capital, I need to stand out. I plan to do this by leveraging my strong credit score, real estate license, and background managing residential properties. My attention to detail and financial prudence are useful selling points.

Proper structuring of my LLC will also provide investor confidence. I’ll document thorough operating procedures and opt for regular audits. Airtight recordkeeping and financial controls will show I’m operating professionally.

Ultimately, investors invest in people. To build trustworthiness, I’ll be transparent about my background and past deals. I’ll provide references to give insight into my character. My integrity and desire to create a win-win relationship will shine through.

Raising $1 million is bold but attainable. With diligent preparation and a compelling pitch, I can overcome the hurdles of an inexperienced capital raiser. I’m ready to put myself out there, build relationships, and actualize a lucrative deal. The time is now. My thoughtful strategy will turn investors into partners for long-term success. N

Next is the strategy to raise $10 million!  Contact me if you want to learn more!

To Your Success!

Bert Bykes @ Contact

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10 Emerging Trends in Asia’s Elderly Care

10 Emerging Trends in Asia’s Elderly Care

Getting older, then better – this is the new mantra echoing across the senior living industry in Asia. As someone deeply involved in property development and architecture, I understand that creating spaces for senior living isn’t just about functionality; it’s about crafting environments that enhance the quality of life for our aging population. In this article, we’ll delve into some of the emerging trends in the senior living industry in South East Asia, shedding light on how architects, property developers, and hotel & resort designers are reshaping the future of senior living.

  • Holistic Wellness Retreats: Today’s seniors are looking for more than just a place to retire; they seek holistic wellness experiences. This trend has given rise to senior living communities designed more like wellness retreats than traditional retirement homes. Think lush green landscapes, meditation gardens, and onsite health clinics, all seamlessly integrated into the architecture.
  • Interconnected Living Spaces: Seniors today value their independence while still wanting to be connected to a vibrant community. Designing living spaces that strike the right balance is crucial. Open floor plans, communal dining areas, and shared recreational spaces foster a sense of togetherness while ensuring personal space is respected.
  • Technology-Driven Environments: The tech-savvy older generation is embracing smart homes and digital health solutions. Senior living developments are now incorporating cutting-edge technology like telemedicine, smart home automation, and wearable health monitors to enhance the safety and well-being of residents.
  • Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Design: Sustainable architecture is no longer just a buzzword. It’s a necessity, and seniors are no exception. Environmentally friendly designs, energy-efficient systems, and eco-conscious landscaping are becoming integral parts of senior living projects, aligning with a broader global push for sustainability.
  • Cultural Sensitivity: South East Asia is a diverse region with various cultures and traditions. Architects and designers need to incorporate cultural sensitivity into their projects. This involves respecting local customs, aesthetics, and building practices, ensuring that the senior living community feels like home.
  • Multi-Generational Spaces: Some seniors prefer to live with their families or close to them. This has led to the creation of senior living communities that include both senior-focused amenities and spaces for younger generations, fostering intergenerational bonding.
  • Flexible Living Arrangements: The concept of ‘aging in place’ is gaining traction. Seniors want the flexibility to adapt their living arrangements as their needs change over time. This has led to the development of mixed-use senior living communities that offer a range of housing options.
  • Culinary Excellence: Food is an essential part of life, and seniors are no exception. Culinary excellence is a trend in senior living, with high-quality dining experiences offered within these communities. From farm-to-table restaurants to diverse menu options, dining is elevated to a gourmet level.
  • Mindful Design: Creating spaces that support mental health and cognitive well-being is essential. Natural lighting, soothing colour palettes, and spaces for meditation and reflection are thoughtfully integrated into senior living designs.
  • Resort-Style Amenities: Given your expertise in hotel and resort design, Bert, you’ll appreciate this trend. Many senior living communities are incorporating resort-style amenities like swimming pools, spas, and fitness centre’s to provide residents with a luxurious and active lifestyle.

In conclusion, the senior living industry in South East Asia is undergoing a profound transformation, driven by evolving expectations and demographics. Architects, property developers, and designers are at the forefront of shaping these emerging trends, ensuring that seniors not only age gracefully but also live their best lives in well-designed, purposeful environments. It’s an exciting time to be a part of this industry, where getting older truly means getting better.

To Your Success!

Bert Bykes @ Contact

All images by CREATOR’S

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Most Profitable Fields in Hotel Management: Exploring Lucrative Opportunities

Most Profitable Fields in Hotel Management: Exploring Lucrative Opportunities

Being a hospitality entrepreneur, I am often asked what are the most profitable fields in hotel management. The truth is that the profitability in the different areas within hotel management can vary depending on various factors, such as location, market demand, concept creation, target audience, and business strategies.

However, here are the most profitable fields in hotel management areas that have historically shown higher profitability, as shown with some examples:

  • Luxury and High-end Hotels: They are hotels that offer premium services, amenities, and personalized experiences to their guests. These establishments generally charge higher room rates, and their profitability can be substantial if they can attract the right clientele.
  • Resort and Vacation Properties: Wellness resorts located in popular tourist destinations can be quite profitable. These properties often offer a wide range of amenities and activities to attract vacationers and provide them with a complete leisure experience.
  • Conference and Event Venues: Hotels specialising in hosting conferences, corporate events, and weddings can be highly profitable. These venues generate revenue not only from room bookings but also from catering, event space rentals, and additional services required for successful events.
  • Boutique and Niche Hotels: Branded boutique hotels offer unique, intimate, and often themed experiences. By targeting a specific market segment or catering to a particular interest or theme, these hotels can attract customers willing to pay a premium for a differentiated experience.
  • Extended-stay and Serviced Apartments: Properties that cater to long-term guests, such as business travellers or individuals relocating, can be lucrative. These accommodations offer amenities such as kitchenettes or full kitchens and typically charge weekly or monthly rates.
  • Senior Living Facilities: These communities, also including retirement homes and assisted living facilities, can be a profitable field within hotel management. With the growing ageing population, there is an increasing demand for specialized accommodations and services tailored to seniors’ needs, including medical assistance, dining, and recreational activities.

It’s important to note that the most profitable fields in hotel management and incomes are not solely determined by hotel management but also by effective marketing, efficient operations, cost management, and overall business strategies. Hoteliers should conduct thorough market research and feasibility studies to identify the most profitable opportunities based on their specific circumstances and goals.

For more information on working with me, feel free to contact me!

To Your Succes!

Bert Bykes @ Contact

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Why a LowBall Offer in Real Estate is not Bad at All!

Why a LowBall Offer in Real Estate is not Bad at All!

A lowball offer in real estate is when a buyer offers significantly less than the asking price for a property. While many sellers may feel insulted by a lowball offer, there are some situations where it may not necessarily be a bad thing. Here are a few reasons why:

  1. Starting Point for Negotiations: A lowball offer can serve as a starting point for negotiations. It opens up the conversation between the buyer and seller, which can lead to a more fair and reasonable price.
  2. Motivated Sellers: Sometimes a low-ball offer can appeal to sellers who are motivated to sell quickly. A seller who needs to sell their property quickly, for example, may be willing to accept a lower offer to avoid a lengthy selling process.
  3. Property Issues: A lowball offer can also be appropriate if there are significant issues with the property, such as repairs or maintenance that need to be done. In these cases, the seller may be more willing to negotiate on price to avoid having to make repairs themselves.
  4. Market Conditions: Depending on market conditions, a lowball offer may be more common. In a buyer’s market, where there are more properties for sale than buyers, low-ball offers may be more prevalent.

In conclusion, a lowball offer can be a strategic move in certain circumstances. It’s important to do your research and understand the market before making an offer, and to approach negotiations with an open mind and a willingness to compromise.

For more information on working with us, feel obligation free to contact us!

To Your Succes!

Bert Bykes @ WA

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Here Are 6 Reasons Why Your Property May Not Sell!

Here Are 6 Reasons Why Your Property May Not Sell!

When you put your property on the market, you expect it to sell quickly and for the best possible price.  Then you found out why your property may not sell! Well, sometimes it doesn’t happen the way you thought it would. There could be many reasons why your property is not selling, and it’s important to identify the reasons so that you can take corrective action. In this post, we’ll take a look at six common reasons why a property may not sell.

  1. Overpriced: One of the most common reasons why a property doesn’t sell is because it’s overpriced. When you set a price that’s too high, potential buyers will simply look elsewhere. You need to make sure that the price you set for your property is realistic and reflects the market value of similar properties in your area. If you’ve been on the market for a while and haven’t received any offers, consider lowering the price to attract more buyers.
  2. Poor Condition: The condition of your property is another important factor that can affect its saleability. If your property is in poor condition, potential buyers will be put off and may not even bother to come and view it. Make sure that your property is clean, tidy, and well-maintained before putting it on the market. Consider making repairs and renovations where necessary to improve its appeal to buyers.
  3. Poor Marketing: If you’re not marketing your property effectively, it’s unlikely that you’ll attract many buyers. Make sure that your property is listed on popular property portals, such as Rightmove and Zoopla. You can also use social media and other advertising channels to promote your property to a wider audience. Consider using professional photography and videography to showcase your property in the best possible light.
  4. Location: The location of your property can also affect its saleability. If your property is in an undesirable location, it may be more difficult to sell. Consider the local amenities and transport links in your area, as well as any potential negative factors, such as noise pollution or crime rates. If you’re struggling to sell your property due to its location, you may need to lower the price to make it more attractive to buyers.
  5. Unresponsive or Difficult to Work With: If you’re not responsive to potential buyers or difficult to work with, it can put them off and lead to a lack of interest in your property. Make sure that you’re responsive to enquiries and always present yourself in a professional manner. You should also be flexible when it comes to viewing times and negotiations.
  6. Market Conditions: Finally, the overall market conditions can also play a role in how quickly your property sells. If there’s a glut of properties on the market, it can be more difficult to sell. Similarly, if interest rates are high, it can put buyers off. While you can’t control the market, you can make sure that your property is priced competitively and marketed effectively to maximise its saleability.

In conclusion, there are many reasons why a property may not sell, from an overpriced property to a difficult seller. By identifying the reasons why your property is struggling to sell, you can take corrective action and improve its appeal to potential buyers. Remember that patience is also key – sometimes it takes time to find the right buyer, so don’t panic if your property doesn’t sell straight away.

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To Your Succes!

Bert Bykes @ Contact

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