Equity Estates

01 May

Posted at 19:07h in Equity Estates by

Equity Estates has initiated a waitlist for new investors. If you’ve been following our growth this year, it should come as no surprise. A waitlist program is evidence of how carefully we acquire residences and target the best availability for shared ownership of luxury vacation homes. Our fifteen-year history of continuous improvement separates us from the competition, regardless of how well backed they are by venture capital whose primary concern is a return on their capital, not yours.

Most people I speak with have a lot of questions about the waitlist. Why are you rolling this out now? How does it work? What does it mean for new investors? Allow me to lay it all out for you.

 

Why Is This Happening?

Equity Estates cares about making smart buys and ensuring our average occupancy ratio. We target 60% occupancy and 40% vacancy. This has proven to be a successful balance of shared cost and shared use.

We’re finding the best buys – for long term use and appreciation potential – to be homes that require new furnishings and other improvements. Some large, some small. This approach requires an effective strategy, including an awareness of timing of when we release a property to host our investors. Hence the waitlist.

How Does The Waitlist Work?

We’ve chosen to waitlist new investors to help manage residence availability. It’s very straightforward.

  • Waitlist investors are assigned a Personal Travel Concierge, given a welcome orientation, and receive access to Voyager, our Investor Reservation Portal.
  • While on the waitlist, investors immediately enjoy unlimited last-minute travel to portfolio residences reserved within 21 days of arrival.
  • With each new residence purchased, we’ll release a group of waitlisted investors.
  • Once activated, investors may begin reserving their Allotted Nights (typically 15, 30, or 45 nights) as far into the future as they prefer.

 

 

Ensuring The Best Flexibility And Availability In The Industry

If you’ve done your homework, you already know there are several business models offering travel to private luxury residences. Companies manage availability in different ways…and it’s a real point of differentiation. Here are the three main ways it’s done:

  1. Variable pricing
  2. Fixed dates or rotating schedule format
  3. The Equity Estates Method

 

Variable pricing, aka, yield management, is a strategy that allows a company to maximize revenue for limited inventory. Think about your own experience with airline seats or hotel room reservations. Prices are significantly higher for high demand times when you likely want to travel. If done properly, variable pricing can help an operator manage supply and demand to maximize its profits to whatever the market can tolerate. Here’s the rub. Every potential customer (i.e., fellow club member) is an added competitor. Bigger is not always better. These clubs have no need for a waitlist, as the more members competing for nights, the higher the profitability for the operator.

Fixed dates or rotating schedule is synonymous with timeshare or fractional use. This type of calendar program is the definition of timeshare. Customers own or have rights to specific dates, and they may float or rotate over time. This process allows for full utilization for the highest number of owners. The operator’s goal is maximum occupancy for the entire year, leading to maximum profitability on the sale of the fraction or timeshare. Great if you want the same thing every year. Not so great if you are looking for a little variety or flexibility.

The Equity Estates Method focuses on a target occupancy ratio of 60%. We consider an individual home’s calendar being “full” if we have 210 nights of reservations. This means 40% is intentionally left vacant, allowing more flexibility for both those who like to plan ahead and those who don’t. It’s the most generous accessibility we’ve come across. Most importantly, there is no financial incentive to target a higher occupancy ratio. We are more like a cooperative, sharing resources fairly with intentional down time to support reservation flexibility and effective maintenance plans.

 

Now Is A Still Great Time To Join

The waitlist helps investors plan for a smooth transition from what they may have already on their travel calendar before entering the Equity Estates life.

If you are ready to learn more now, please let us know. And if you are not ready, that’s perfectly fine. We will still be here when it is the right time for you.

Call us at 404.445.8501 or click here to schedule an appointment with one of our Investor Relations Team members.

Until next time, safe travels!

Philip Mekelburg
CEO, Equity Estates

 

07 Apr

Posted at 14:33h in Equity Estates by

The heart of the state, the island of Hawaii is the largest and most geographically varied, from stunning snow-capped volcanoes to lush tropical rainforests. Soft breezes scented with salt and frangipani waft across black sand beaches along seas teeming with turtles, dolphins and (in season) whales. The Big Island’s size and diversity make it an ideal vacation choice for both relaxation and adventure.

“It’s truly paradise,” says Destination Manager Sean, “and our home is the perfect base for enjoying the best of the island.” Here are his suggestions for the perfect three days— but many investors opt to stay a few more to discover more island magic.

Day One: Pick A Beach

The Equity Estates residence is on the famed Kohala Coast, facing the dazzling Pacific. Decompress from your journey and connect with paradise with a relaxing morning on the beach. 49 Black Sand Beach is unique and rustic. Your Local host will pack a picnic so you can enjoy snorkeling and exploring around the tide pools. Just a short drive from the residence, Mauna Kea Beach boasts some of the most beautiful white sands on the island. If you don’t mind a two-hour drive and a 45-minute hike, Papakolea Green Sand Beach is one of only four green sand beaches in the world. It’s remote and rugged but a spectacular place to swim and take photos.

After a day of enjoying nature, continue the spirit of aloha by connecting with the beautiful culture of the island’s people. The Legends of Hawaii Luau show offers a glimpse into old Hawaii, beginning with a hula lesson, live music, and a torch run that’s especially delightful for children. The succulent menu includes a roast pig and assortment of fresh-from-the-ocean seafood, along with tropical cocktails.

Day Two: Choose Your Own Adventure

A catamaran charter is “an absolute must” according to Destination Manager Sean. Paradise Sailing offers a private four-hour morning excursion on the 36’ Kōlea to explore colorful reefs and, with luck, a frolic with dolphins or even spot a humpback whale. This luxurious craft has plenty of shade for an enjoyable lunch plus sunny lounging areas to soak in the sights.

Golfers will definitely want to enjoy a round on one of the Troon managed golf courses at Mauna Lani Resort. Mauna Lani’s South Course is home to Hole #15, one of the most photographed over-the-water golf course holes in the world. Renowned as the former home to the annual Senior Skins Game from 1990 to 2000, the course snakes through the stark, rugged a’a lava of the prehistoric Kaniku lava flow. The challenging South Course offers golfers panoramic views of both rugged mountains as well as calming, beautiful ocean.

If golfing is not your thing, we’ll arrange for an aerial adventure through the lush tree canopy with Kohala Zipline. Nine ziplines, five sky bridges, and a rappel make this the only full canopy zipline tour on Hawaii Island.

After all that activity, you’ve earned a relaxing evening. Let our favorite chef, Lisa Porter, prepare a private feast in the comfort of the residence. Fig jam and blue cheese bruschetta. Poke nachos. Local beet salad with goat cheese and lilikoi vinaigrette. Miso encrusted catch of the day. Macadamia nut tart. Yum. After dessert, relax outside on the lanai and look up into the sky for some of the world’s best stargazing — the perfect ending to a perfect day.

Day Three: Volcanos, Wildlife, Sunsets

There’s a big day ahead, so start off with a hearty breakfast of banana brown butter pancakes at Mai Grill. Then it’s off across the island to Volcano National Park, to wander the lava fields and pay homage to Pele, the volcano goddess who, legend has it, shaped these very islands. Lava is beginning to flow again, which some locals believe is the gods bringing back their blessings.

After completing an exploration of the park, take the southern route for a leisurely drive, stopping at anything that strikes your fancy, be it a shaved ice cart (you simply have to treat yourself to at least one on any trip), a fresh bowl of poke, or some local handicrafts from a roadside stand. The Seahorse Farm near Kona is fascinating for kids and adults, and let us book a reservation for you to see some of the wildlife at Three Ring Ranch, the state’s only fully licensed and accredited exotic animal sanctuary.

Return to Mauna Lani Resort in time to enjoy the sunset at Brown’s Beach House, which Destination Manager Sean considers the best place on the island to watch the sun sink below the waves.

At Home On The Big Island Key with Equity Estates

Ocean-facing and perched on the edge of the first fairway of the stunning Mauna Lani South Course, the Equity Estates residence on the Big Island is reminiscent of a private tropical resort. It’s four bedrooms, five bathrooms and more than 5,000 square feet of total living space. With features that include a detached guest ohana, a private front courtyard, an infinity-edge pool with waterfall spa, and an optional outdoor privacy garden and shower, this place will allow you to get lost in your own private oasis.

Your visit to the Big Island can be the beach vacation you’re dreaming of – whether you want a more laid-back trip or one that’s filled with activity; whether you’re traveling with friends and family or in need of a quiet, couple’s getaway. We can help you make it happen. If you would like more information about investing with Equity Estates, please reach out to our Investor Relations team at 404.445.8501 or tap this link to schedule a call.

17 Mar

Posted at 20:35h in Equity Estates by

If you’re dreaming of white sand beaches, outdoor fun in the sun, or a relaxing family vacation, it may be time to book a trip to gorgeous Lido Key, Florida, where you can find all these things and more. This small barrier island, just a short drive from downtown Sarasota, is the perfect blend of family-friendly getaway and upscale beach vibe. And our Destination Manager, Chelsea, is more than happy to create the perfect itinerary.

Day One: Life’s a Day at the Beach

Ease into your first day of vacation by enjoying your morning coffee on the rooftop deck. “This is one of my favorite features of the house,” says Chelsea. “From the rooftop deck, you can look in one direction and see downtown Sarasota, and in the other direction have an amazing view of the ocean. You may even get lucky and spot manatees in the canal below.” After taking in the views, grab your towels and the decadent picnic lunch waiting for you in the fridge from Morton’s Gourmet Market – arranged by your Local Host, of course – and head to the beach, just a short stroll away.

Lido Key Beach is known for its powder-soft sand and turquoise water. The waves here are calm and the beach relatively uncrowded, so it’s a great place to spend time hunting for shells and shark’s teeth, swimming, relaxing, or taking a walk along the shore. Beach chairs and umbrellas are available to make your day on the beach even more comfortable.

When you’ve had enough of sand and sun, head back to the house for a dip in the pool or an afternoon siesta on one of the covered patios before getting cleaned up and heading out for dinner. “For great seafood and cocktails, you can’t go wrong with Crab and Fin,” recommends Chelsea. They’re known for their fresh, unique seafood dishes, and the calamari appetizer is a must. For those seeking an entrée other than fish (all of which is fresh off the boat and delicious), the coconut crusted chicken is superb. For an extra treat, let us book your table outside where you can people watch while listening to the live pianist.

Day Two: Time for Adventure

While day one was all about relaxing and settling in, day two’s focus is a local adventure.

There are many year-round outdoor activities to choose from here, but our top eco-adventure recommendation – and a great way to start the day – is to take a two-hour morning kayak tour among Lido Key’s famed mangrove trees with Kayaking SRQ. “This is a must-do activity when you come to Lido Key,” says Chelsea. “The mangrove tunnels are absolutely beautiful and home to a wide variety of birds and marine life. Kayakers often catch sight of dolphins, manatees, jellyfish, and other wildlife, so be sure to bring your camera.”

If the outdoors is calling, but kayaking isn’t for you, let us book deep-sea fishing, golfing, boating, tennis, or snorkeling nearby.

Whatever adventure you choose, after a morning of outdoor fun, you’ll want to head over to the Lido Key Tiki Bar at the Ritz-Carlton for a laid-back lunch. This rustic, open-air tropical beach bar is a Sarasota landmark and offers casual lunch fare and beachy cocktails right at the water’s edge. The kanaloa cocktail is a must try.

To round out your day of outdoor adventure, let us arrange a second fresh-air activity for you in the afternoon – fishing, snorkeling, golfing, tennis – or head over to the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens to stroll through their 15 acres of desert, rainforest, and display gardens, located along the Sarasota Bay.

For dinner, investors love the rooftop deck at Tommy Bahama which overlooks St. Armands Circle. In addition to their tasty fish tacos, you can’t go wrong with their world-famous coconut shrimp and papaya mango chutney. The mouthwatering macadamia nut crusted Snapper pairs perfectly with the Pinot. The restaurant often has live music for your enjoyment.

Day Three: Shop till You Drop

Wrap up your stay with a day of shopping at the renowned St. Armands Circle, just a short eight-minute walk from the house.

Here you’ll find high end shops offering everything from clothes, home goods, jewelry, art, and more. Alongside cozy courtyards and shaded patios, St. Armands Circle is the perfect perch for people-watching.

When you need a break from retail therapy, grab an elegant lunch at Café L’Europe where the old-world charm and warm brick décor generate a sophisticated but comfortable atmosphere. If you’re craving soup, the lobster bisque and French onion (served in a whole onion) are always worthy of five stars. Be sure to try the grouper sandwich or croque monsieur (Sarasota’s best ham and cheese). Save room for homemade ice cream from Big Olaf Creamery.

“There’s such a great mix of upscale and casual boutiques, artisan’s shops, daquiri bars, spas, and art galleries at St. Armands, It’s easy to spend an entire day here,” says Chelsea.

In addition to the amazing shopping and dining options, visitors can also enjoy community events and a lovely central greenspace featuring Italian statues and a “Circus Ring of Fame” memorial. As always, your Destination Manager will let you know about any special events being hosted here during your stay.

In the afternoon, head back to the house for more time in the pool or jacuzzi, and let us arrange for a private chef to come in and prepare dinner for you.

“I always recommend Chef Richard Knowles,” says Chelsea. “He’s fantastic and our investors love him. Having him come in and cook for you is a great way to wrap up your Lido Key vacation.” Some of chef’s signature dishes include Oaxacan chicken mole skewers with queso fresco, pan seared Anna Maria red snapper, and jalapeno lime Beurre Blanc with a medley of saffron rice, peppers, onions, and plantains. It’s the perfectly relaxing grand finale to a fabulous three days in Lido Key.

At Home In Lido Key with Equity Estates

Situated on the canal side of Lido Key, your Equity Estates home is an easy stroll from the esteemed St. Armands Circle and Lido Key Beach. This spacious and thoughtfully laid-out residence features five bedrooms, six bathrooms, and boasts more than 6,900 square feet of indoor/outdoor living space. With soaring tray ceilings, sustainable bamboo floors and gourmet kitchen, this home nestles you in the lap of luxury. The airy first floor includes a waterfront master suite and spa-style bath. The rooftop observation deck features views of downtown Sarasota and miles of Florida coastline.

Your visit to Lido Key with Equity Estates can be the beach vacation you’re dreaming of – whether you want a more laid-back trip or one that’s filled with activity; whether you’re traveling with friends and family or in need of a quiet, couple’s getaway. We can help you make it happen. If you would like more information about investing with Equity Estates, please reach out to our Investor Relations team at 404.445.8501 or tap this link to schedule a call.

09 Mar

Posted at 04:44h in Equity Estates by

It has been an incredibly busy year on the real estate acquisition front. Our strong recent investor growth was followed by commensurate levels of new real estate acquisitions. That means I travel. A lot. Even though we are in a pandemic. It’s given me an opportunity to send snapshots to my mother of me wearing a mask while flying. She worries. Plus, she always wanted me, her only son, to become a doctor. Mask wearing is about as close as it’s going to get.

Over the past ten months, we’ve acquired nine new residences. Big Sky, Napa Valley and the Florida Keys were the most recent additions to our residence portfolio. And stay tuned for some new announcements soon.

Wait a minute, Philip. Isn’t this a terrible time to be buying right now? If you’ve been looking for a second home (or third), you might have noticed luxury real estate markets are very competitive. So how do we continue to find gems at the right price? In short, we’ve had nearly fifteen years to perfect our residence buying best practices. Keep reading and I’ll let you in on some of our secrets.

The Perfect Storm Creating This Tight Real Estate Market

Homes aren’t just selling. They are selling at a record-setting pace in some markets. While that’s good news for sellers, it can give buyers heartburn…especially in affluent neighborhoods and the most desirable vacation home markets. I recently had a phone conversation with our realtor in Lake Tahoe to review newly listed homes. Within three days, they were all under contract. Many realtors look and sound exhausted, and they have right to feel that way—it is that busy in many markets. Here are a few articles that I found in a quick Google search:


With unprecedented low levels of inventory and equally low mortgage rates, the market has become competitive to start the year. Coupled with COVID-fueled demand for residences outside traditionally hot metro areas, prices are reflective of handsome appreciation over prior year, and most home listings priced right are getting contracts within 30 days.

In many cases, potential buyers are outpriced in competitive markets or forced to make rush decisions. Not a good formula for new or infrequent buyers. Regardless of how many years down the line you might want to exit, you need a proven way to ferret out good buys if you wish to make money.


The Equity Estates Difference

So how do we do it? How do we continue to find smart buys which will deliver the right travel experience with the right return? Over the years, we’ve learned (sometimes the hard way) these three keys to successful acquisitions in any macroeconomic environment.

  1. Understanding investor preferences
  2. Building long-term relationships with realtors
  3. Extreme patience + robust due diligence + stomach for renovations


First, keeping our fingers on the pulse of investors’ destination preferences is an ongoing, purpose-driven exercise. It helps us identify meaningful targets while excluding trendy fads which won’t stand the test of time. We receive regular feedback from our investors. Last month, we asked hundreds of prospective investors where we should buy next. The results, as always, were extremely informative. They validated that we’re currently looking in the right areas plus added a few new opportunities to our shopping list. We have even doubled down with more than one property in certain high demand markets like Turks & Caicos, Costa Rica, and Los Cabos.

Second, when we circle in on a new market, we find the right local real estate expert. Sometimes we buy right away. Other times it may not happen for a decade. But we maintain our relationships and keep tabs on the markets we care about. We find partners that get to know us, understand the expectations of our investors, and who are willing to work hard to uncover motivated sellers, i.e., those that want (or need) to liquidate.

We are also very data-driven purchasers who analyze market trends over time on key metrics like price per square foot. Access to this information is critical for us, but not all realtors can (or like to) work on that part of the transaction.

Finally, there’s no substitute to patience and hard work. Short cuts and time pressures often lead to poor decisions. It never ceases to amaze me what doesn’t get caught with a typical home inspection or what fails to get disclosed by a seller (knowingly or not). Don’t be afraid to get into the attic and explore the crawl space like I do. Where we find problems, it gives us an ability to negotiate from a position of strength due to first-hand knowledge. We feel empowered to walk away when we uncover undisclosed impairments which may impact our objectives and goals for a property.

Especially when renovations are planned, going in eyes wide open is important. In certain markets when you can’t check in personally on daily progress, managing renovations can be very challenging. It’s a great way to lose your shirt. This is where Equity Estates leverages our expertise to find long term value—with years of lessons learned now that we are on Fund IV.

Now Is A Great Time To Join

The Phase II Investment round of Fund IV is expected to sell out this month. Wouldn’t you love to diversify your overall holdings with an investment that is both a known hedge against inflation and an enjoyable way to create hassle-free, lasting memories for your family and friends?

We would welcome an opportunity to discuss why now is a great time to invest in Equity Estates.

If you are ready to learn more now, there are incentives for any new investor who acts before the end of the quarter. And if you are not ready, that’s perfectly fine. We will still be here when it’s the right time for you.

Call us at 404.445.8501 or click here to schedule an appointment with one of our Investor Relations Team members.

Until next time, safe travels!

Philip Mekelburg
CEO, Equity Estates

 

15 Feb

Posted at 23:50h in Equity Estates by

Nestled high in the Rocky Mountains, Aspen is a year-round destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Aspen in the winter is a dream for skiing and other outdoor sports, boutique shopping, eating, or simply sipping a hot toddy by the fireplace and relaxing.

With Equity Estates, the possibilities are endless. We interviewed our knowledgeable Destination Manager for Aspen to create a perfect three-day itinerary. There is so much to do in this fabulous destination!

Day One: Explore a Winter Wonderland

For downhill skiing or snowboarding, there is nothing better than starting with Aspen Mountain, known locally as “Ajax.” Catch the Gondola in the village, a short walk from your Equity Estates home. Lunch on the mountain or at the base. Aspen’s Roaring Fork Valley boasts four ski mountains, each offering something for skiers of all levels: bowls, steeps, groomers, or gentle slopes—you don’t have to decide ahead of time as all resorts use the same lift ticket.

Another option for today, allow us to hire a snowshoe guide or rent cross country skis for a different perspective of the area. There are 90 kilometers of free trails in the Aspen Snowmass Nordic Trail System. Take a lesson or guided tour through the beautiful rolling hills and aspen groves of the Owl Creek Trail, the North Star Nature Preserve, or take in stunning vistas of the majestic Elk Mountains. Your private concierge will arrange equipment rental and reserve your guide at the Aspen Cross Country Center (ACCC). Afterwards, relax in the ACCC lounge with a hot drink or head into Aspen Village for the perfect snack or lunch.

If you prefer to explore on your own, sans guide or teacher, trail system maps are available at the Center or online and your concierge will plan a picnic lunch for you from Meat & Cheese Market, a local favorite. Located in the heart of Aspen, the market offers take away or dine in. Soups, salads, sandwiches, charcuterie boards, and desserts, OH MY! Cocktails, wine, and beer may also be ordered to go if the restaurant is not currently seating.

Afterwards, walk around Aspen Village and warm up with a coffee, tea, or hot chocolate at Victoria+co. This Australian style cafe is part coffee shop, part bakery, part wine bar. This local gem also serves hot breakfast and hot lunch. For a family style take out dinner, your concierge can pre-order the house specialty, Thai Green Curry.

Your concierge will arrange dinner reservations for Cache Cache, which is viewed by many as the best restaurant in Aspen. The food is unpretentious and delicious—try the Alaskan King Crab appetizer and choose from the restaurant’s over 6000 bottles of wine. Or for the Italian lovers, try Acquolina Trattoria and Pizzeria. A local favorite, savor the minestrone on a cold night. They have a full menu of salads, pastas, and entrees, too. Your concierge can arrange reservations or for dinner delivery if you prefer a night at home for a cozy movie night by the fireplace.

Day Two: Dogsled through Snowmass Backcountry

Ski at Snowmass in the morning and let us plan an afternoon or twilight dogsledding adventure with Krabloonik for a unique Aspen experience. Eight husky sled dogs guided by an experienced musher will pull you through the backcountry for an exciting and peaceful journey. Afterwards have a late lunch in their dining room or head back to Aspen for a bite or happy hour.

A modern Aspen Landmark since 1889 at the height of the town’s silver boom with its Old West vibe, J-Bar at the Hotel Jerome remains the town’s social hub, where local skiers rub elbows with socialites over craft beers, vintage-inspired cocktails, and Aspen’s best burger.

Tonight, dinner reservations at Steakhouse No. 316. Red velvet curtains and leather booths create a warm atmosphere on a snowy night, and they offer a full steak menu with many seafood and fowl options. Or rather, enjoy a five-star dinner in the comfort of your home and allow us to arrange for a private chef. Your concierge will work with you to select the perfect menu including wine pairings. Investors rave about this feature of traveling with Equity Estates.

Day Three: Shop ‘til You Drop and Go for a Sleigh Ride

Aspen offers unique, world class shopping. Spend the day wandering through town in search of treasure, that special statement piece, home decor item or gift.

Shop high end fashion consignment, many pieces are brand new with the original tags at The Little Bird. Discover top of the line Western wear and accessories at Kemo Sabe. Design your own statement piece—custom boots, hats, or buckles— or buy off the shelf and have them brand your initials on the item. The store has something for everyone and is a must-see destination in Aspen. You will not be disappointed. The Daniels Antiques collection is eclectic and to wander the store is an adventure through time and taste. Admire museum-quality antiques and rarities that are 50 years or even a century old. The owners specialize in Swiss Black Wood forest carvings. Inventory also includes French industrial clocks, contemporary art, custom aviation furniture, luxury barware, Louis Vuitton, and 20th century curiosities.

Hit the slopes or town in the timeless style of Gorsuch Ltd. Shop fur boots, luxurious cashmere, wool favorites, and performance wear. Shop Pitkin County Dry Goods for contemporary clothing, one of Aspen’s top retail destinations. This 50-year locally owned business has a loyal customer base from all over the world and when you stop in you will see why. The selection of men’s and women’s fashion is unique and stylish.

Come for the people watching and truffle fries, there is no better seat in town for lunch or cocktails than Ajax Tavern. Warm up with spiced cider or mulled wine at this hot spot, loved by locals and out of town visitors. Located at the base of Aspen Mountain and next to Silver Queen Gondola, this is the spot. Sit outside year-round thanks to their sunny tented, heated patio and during the winter season, they offer dinner and a movie. The cauliflower au gratin will not disappoint. Or if you’re interested in the St. Regis Aspen Resort, then drop in at the Mountain Social Bar & Lounge for handcrafted cocktails and light fare with views of Aspen Mountain.

Let us plan dinner and a sleigh ride for you at Pine Creek Cookhouse for the experience of a lifetime. Beautiful Percheron horses pull classic wooden sleighs to dinner in the nearby Ashcroft Valley. Guided by cowboys, your 20-minute sleigh ride takes you through the aspen trees with breathtaking views of the Elk Mountains on your way to an elegant cabin. Feast on rack of lamb, pistachio crusted caribou, and barbequed flat iron steak. The menu changes daily.

At Home In Aspen with Equity Estates

Equity Estates recently invested $275,000 to upgrade the interior and exterior of our four-bedroom Aspen residence. This has immediately added to the residence’s value and the feedback from our investors is they love it. The spacious living room and open floor plan allow for the entire family to comfortably gather around the fireplace for a cozy night in after a day of skiing or other winter adventures. Have a movie night or choose from a selection of games and prepare dinner in your expansive chef’s kitchen. Your private concierge will arrange reservations for activities and outings, meals out or meals in. She will even pick up your groceries to ensure your kitchen is stocked with all of your favorites from the local market. If preferred, she will hire a local private chef to experience the famous Aspen cuisine in your home.

Travel with Equity Estates for a unique and memorable Aspen experience. If you would like more information about investing with Equity Estates, please reach out to our Investor Relations team at 404.445.8501 or tap this link to schedule a call.

Your Aspen adventure awaits!

04 Jan

Posted at 20:16h in Equity Estates by

If the allure of stunning white sand beaches, warm cerulean water and laidback friendly islands is beckoning you, put the Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI) on your next destination list. Now more than ever, many of us are yearning to travel somewhere beautiful where we can recharge, enjoy time with our family and leave the daily stressors behind. Many destinations are off-limits to visitors due to the pandemic, but the TCI is welcoming U.S. visitors.

As of January 4, 2021, there are no quarantine requirements, lockdowns, or curfews. Visitors aged 10 and older only need to show proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test within five days of arrival, have medical insurance and answer an online health questionnaire. Restaurants, shops and attractions are open (some with reduced capacity and mask requirements). And unlike many tropical destinations that require several hours in the air and multiple airports, the TCI is a short two to three-hour flight from many airports along the U.S. Eastern Seaboard.

Turks and Caicos

Day One

The TCI beaches are the #1 attraction here, so from either residence, our DMs suggest easing into your stay by simply walking out your door, and you’ll be on a spectacular beach in moments. At either residence, you can settle into a comfortable deck chair next to an infinity pool and admire the beach sand-free— or dig your toes in the sand and take a dip in the warm, crystal-clear tropical ocean. When lunchtime rolls around, choose from several friendly, tasty beachfront restaurants such as Da Conch Shack or Omar’s Beach Hut. Both establishments have tables right on the beach, so no need to change out of your swimsuit!

Since the world’s third-largest barrier reef borders the island chain, our DMs say the TCI’s second-best attraction is its fantastic snorkeling and diving. Spend the afternoon cruising with Caicos Dream Tours and let its friendly, capable crew take you to remote beaches and snorkeling spots — or if fishing is on your agenda, you’ve come to the right spot! The TCI is a renowned bonefish and deep-sea fishing destination. If you happen to visit a few days after the full moon, another option is to book a Glow Worm Sunset Cruise with Sun Charters. Each month this spectacular phenomenon happens when bioluminescent sea worms carry out a mating ritual by swimming in circular patterns about an hour after sunset.

For dinner, our DMs suggests Seven Restaurant’s private dining experience where you can dine on or near the beach — or indulge in their private Tasting Room five-course, paired wine experience. If French/Italian cuisine sounds appealing, head to the Michelin-starred Provence by Eric.

Sea Turtle

Day Two

If you’re interested in learning to scuba dive or you’re already certified, the TCI offers exceptional diving, and our DMs recommend a private charter with Dive Provo. Another option they like is a trip with SNUBA Turks and Caicos, a shallow water diving hybrid between scuba diving and snorkeling. You don’t need a certification or wear cumbersome gear — you can swim among the spectacular sea life as you breathe through a specialized mouthpiece attached to air tanks that float on the surface.

Once your morning adventure ends, it’s time to refuel. For a tasty lunch, look no further than Cocovan’s food truck (run by the fabulous team at Coco Bistro). Sit at one of their outdoor picnic tables as you enjoy their fantastic fish, steak or falafel tacos and “Big Mac” egg rolls. After lunch, explore Provo’s remote wetlands via private kayak tours with Big Blue Collective. They also offer standup paddleboarding trips, kitesurfing and other adventures. For a more relaxed afternoon, lounge by your pool or the beach until it’s time for “sundowners” (sunset cocktails)! For dinner, let The Kissing Fish Catering Co. prepare and serve you a fabulous feast in the comfort of your residence. If you prefer to dine out, this talented group also runs Bay Bistro, a wonderful oceanfront eatery where you can dine at a private table directly on Grace Bay Beach. For late night fun, head to Casablanca Casino and try your luck at blackjack, roulette, poker or slots.

Day Three

Horseback riding is a fun adventure anywhere, and doing a private ride with Provo Ponies offers an extra perk — in addition to a scenic beach ride, their horses love to wade into the ocean! The well-trained, friendly horses carry you safely into the shallow water, allowing you both to cool your legs off a bit. You’ll have worked up an appetite on this unique adventure, so for lunch, our DMs say head to Bugaloos Conch Crawl, a lively beachfront restaurant with daily live entertainment and outdoor games. They even have tables sitting in the shallow, calm water so you can cool your feet as you eat.

After lunch, grab one more chance to admire the TCI’s underwater paradise on your own or take a guided snorkel trip at Coral Gardens, a well-marked snorkel trail just offshore from the Coral Gardens Resort. You’ll likely see gliding sea turtles, scores of tropical fish and maybe even a barracuda. Keep an eye out for Jammin’ Gelato’s ice cream cart that cruises up and down the beach serving delicious, unique flavors. If you’ve had your fill of water adventures, end your third day with a relaxing spa treatment from one of the TCI’s many luxurious spas.

No beach vacation is complete without a sunset cruise, so let Island Vibes Tours take you on a private luxury cruise and sip rum punch, champagne, beer or wine as you watch the glorious sun sink under the horizon. For dinner, our Destination Managers say Coco Bistro is a must. Dine under swaying palms and cozy lighting as you sample some of the TCI’s best local cuisine.

Thompson Cove

Not One, But Two Fantastic Homes

Best of all, you have two fantastic Equity Estates’ residences to choose from — a luxurious four-bedroom penthouse condo and a fabulous six-bedroom private villa. The expansive 4,500-square-foot penthouse overlooks Grace Bay Beach, which frequently lands on “Word’s Best Beaches” lists. Fifteen minutes away sits Thompson Cove, a divine 7,500-square-foot beachfront home boasting six equivalent master suites with private terraces, a splendid infinity pool and vast amounts of living space. We interviewed our Destination Managers, who, along with our Local Hosts, are ready to help you plan a much-needed, fantastic getaway to the TCI’s primary island, Providenciales (aka Provo). To help you get started, here are their suggestions on how to spend three perfect days in this idyllic island paradise.

Equity Estates can help make your visit to the TCI a delightfully unparalleled experience. If you’re already an investor, your Personal Travel Concierge is ready to assist you with arranging a memorable vacation here.

If you would like more information about investing with Equity Estates, please reach out to our Investor Relations team at 404.445.8501 or tap this link to schedule a call.