hawaii Tag

More and more, families and larger groups are finding it appealing to rent a villa or house rather than staying in a hotel while on vacation. After all, villa rentals offer privacy, space, and additional conveniences like a kitchen, private pool, and outdoor living area. While villa rentals can feel like a smart option, you don’t always know exactly what you’re booking until you arrive. Equity Estates provides a more comfortable and reliable way to enjoy vacation time together.



5 Differences between Equity Estates and Villa Rentals

To start, let’s compare how Equity Estates greatly differs from a villa rental.

1. Consistency & Quality

Rental homes can be nice. Unfortunately, it’s not uncommon to get less than what you were expecting. The pictures you see on rental websites (think Airbnb, VRBO) don’t always accurately depict reality. It’s not uncommon to arrive and feel disappointed because the quality of furnishings, surroundings, or accommodations are subpar. Rental homes are often stocked with inferior products with little concern for comfort or extravagance.

Are you interested in playing vacation home roulette with your next vacation?

At Equity Estates, we know how important it is to have your expectations met (or better yet, exceeded). Our investors know the quality of the home, the location, and the amenities will be impeccable every single time.

To ensure our rigid quality standards, Equity Estates invests an average of $250,000 in furniture, fixtures, and equipment in each of our luxury vacation homes. Equity Estates investors can count on high-quality mattresses and furnishings, chef-grade cookware and appliances, luxurious linens, and immaculately kept homes in the best locations. Our investors are the owners, after all, and we know they expect their homes to be perfect each visit.

2. More Bang for Your Buck

You might find luxury vacation homes similar to Equity Estates residences listed on public rental websites, where they command anywhere from $1,500 to $6,000 per night. If you are interested, we can share several examples of comparable rentals.

As an Equity Estates investor, you can save 50-75% annually compared to renting premium vacation properties.

We don’t rent our homes to the public. Instead, they are exclusively available for investor use, who simply share pass-through maintenance expenses without any markup. The actual cost is approximately $1,220 per night for investors. This includes all annual shared costs and asset management fees. There are no additional booking fees or hidden taxes. We believe in cost certainty and transparency, so you can feel great about the value you are getting for your dollars.

3. Service You Can Count On

Sometimes the hardest part of vacation travel is managing the logistics and planning. Good luck finding help with this kind of service with a villa rental.

Equity Estates takes care of everything we can before and during the trip – so our investors are able to truly relax during their vacation. We have dedicated Personal Travel Concierges to plan every detail, and Destination Managers who are experts in each location.

Think of how different your trips might be with pre-arrival grocery shopping and rental cars or shuttle services arranged for you. Excursions, activities, and even private chefs are all scheduled on your behalf. Each of our residences has a Local Host on site to welcome you… and who remains available for any emergency or other needs during the trip. Daily housekeeping is provided so investors can enjoy activities with family and friends during their time off.

4. A Diversified Investment

As we’ve already mentioned, villa rentals can work out well. But at the end of the day, you are still helping someone else pay their mortgage and utility bills instead of investing in a portfolio of a dozen luxury vacation homes.

Equity Estates investors own the residences in their portfolio. They stand to benefit from any appreciation of the real estate in their fund. We have designed a business model which operates on the belief that we should only profit when investors do, with a clearly defined exit.

5. Enjoy a Well-Stocked Home

Nothing is more frustrating than arriving in a rental house and not knowing what items will be on hand. Will there be salt and pepper, basic spices, and shampoo? Each home in the Equity Estates portfolio is stocked with 85 consumables – from olive oil to tin foil to bug spray to batteries – so our investors can travel easily knowing exactly which condiments, toiletries, and coffee will be there.

Click here to see a full list of Equity Estates consumable items in every residence.



Similarities between Equity Estates and Villa Rentals

Now, let’s compare some of the ways villa rentals are similar to Equity Estates.

Vacation with Privacy, Space and Access to Amenities

Both villa rentals and Equity Estates provide travelers the opportunity to enjoy privacy and space to relax during their vacations. Many families (especially those with young children) or those who enjoy multi-generational travel love the comfort and ease of traveling to a private home with a kitchen, separate bedrooms, shared common areas, and outdoor space.

Private homes also often offer access to high-quality amenities like pools or hot tubs, access to fitness centers, golf courses, or tennis clubs, and more.

Explore the World

If destination diversity is important to you, both Equity Estates and villa rental solutions are far better than alternatives like second home ownership or fractionals. Our investors enjoy travel to dozens of residences around the globe in 25+ countries. Mountains, beach, city, or leisure. Where do you want to go?

Click here to see a list of Equity Estates destinations you can explore.

Learn more about Equity Estates

Overall, our investment model is very different than villa rentals. When evaluating which option is the best for you or your family, it’s important to consider your current travel habits and investment goals.

Are you looking for a consistently excellent way to vacation…while making a smart decision with your money? 

Schedule time to connect with our team to download our Fund V Investment Overview.

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.

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!

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.

From Arizona to Hawaii, we have a bevy of destinations just a short drive or flight away from our West Coast investors.

San Diego – This five bedroom residence is located right on Mission Beach, just steps from the sand and private surf lessons. Ideally located with easy access to La Jolla and Torrey Pines, this residence allows you to experience the California coast in style.

Lake Tahoe, Northstar – Enjoy this ski-in/ski-out four bedroom residence at Tahoe’s premiere luxury resort. We also have full access to Ritz Carlton’s year around amenities, including outdoor heated pools and a beautiful spa.

Los Cabos – Pick from two incredible residences within Puerto Los Cabos’ gates. Just steps from a beautiful beach club with incredible pools, work out facilities and spa treatments, both homes also come equipped with their own private pool and daily breakfast prepared in home.

Napa Valley – Enjoy a relaxing weekend in wine country at Calistoga Ranch, an Auberge Resort. This bungalow allows up to six guests to take advantage of the region and unwind at one of America’s top ranked resort.

Hawaii, The Kohala Coast – This brand new five bedroom residence is targeted to open later this year when construction is completed. Located between the Mauna Lani and the Fairmont Orchid, the home is perfectly positioned and allows visitors to seamlessly enjoy resort amenities.

Scottsdale – While overlooking the 14th hole of Troon North’s Pinnacle Peak course, enjoy the spectacular outdoor living space that boasts lounge areas, pool, fire pit, hot tub and dining areas. This large home offers easy access to championship golf, spas, shopping, horseback riding and hiking.