napa valley Tag

27 Jun

Posted at 21:37h in Equity Estates by

Vacation home ownership is often considered by those looking for getaway time together or for a remote working situation with a different view. Still others look to luxury real estate as investment tool – one which provides a strong hedge against inflation and a haven from volatility in the stock market – especially during times of economic uncertainty.

If you’re considering a second home, are you prepared for all the research, work, and costs that can accompany such a long-term decision? Have you considered how much time you’ll actually get to enjoy it? Will you still travel to other destinations? Who will manage the home when you’re away?

Considering these motivations and questions, we believe Equity Estates provides a great alternative to purchasing a second home of your own or complementing other travel.



4 Differences between Equity Estates and Second Home Ownership

To start, let’s compare how Equity Estates greatly differs from owning a second home.

1. Location, Location, Location

When you purchase a vacation residence, you receive unlimited access to that home…but only that home. People who own 2nd (or 3rd) homes often feel obligated to vacation there. In fact, they tend to feel guilty for wanting to travel elsewhere. We’ve even had families that love variety purchase a vacation home, only to come back a couple years later and revisit Equity Estates. Their family members missed the ability to explore the world.

If destination diversity is important to you, Equity Estates might be the right solution. Our investors enjoy travel to dozens of residences around the globe in 25+ countries.

2. No Stress Maintenance & Upkeep

Owning a home isn’t always easy or as glamorous as one would hope – that challenge can be even greater for a vacation home. Unexpected repairs, landscaping arrangements, HOA fees, monthly utilities can be overwhelming from afar. Not to mention things like frozen pipes or hurricane preparations, which can be real nightmares. And if it’s been a while since you last visited your vacation home, don’t be surprised to spend your first day of vacation working on repairs or to find it dusty on arrival and in need of a deep clean.

Our investors enjoy the comfort, quality, and consistency they would expect from their own home, but without any day-to-day effort. Equity Estates homes are professionally managed. Plus, the actual overhead expenses of owning and maintaining our homes are shared amongst all investors versus on your own.

3. Service You Can Count On

Sometimes the hardest part of vacation travel is managing the logistics, research, and planning aspects of your trip. You are on your own. Before you arrive on vacation, it’s unknown whether or not things will be as expected.

Now, think of how different your trips might be with Equity Estates. No more making your own dinner reservations, no more spending the first day of your vacation grocery shopping. Leave the heavy lifting to us. We plan all of the details, we book excursions, activities, we’ll make the grocery run, and even private chefs. So when you arrive you start vacationing immediately.

We have dedicated Personal Travel Concierges to plan every detail, and Destination Managers who are experts in each location. Each of our residences also 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, of course, so you may maximize your time off with family and friends.

4. A Diversified Investment

We believe that luxury real estate is a great place to invest. But at the end of the day, when an individual buys a vacation home, they are still exposed to a degree of risk…because it’s still only one home in a single destination.

Choosing to invest in an Equity Estates fund gives you ownership in twelve homes across multiple destinations – domestic and international – with a defined path to liquidity. Of course, our investors 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 clear exit.



Similarities between Equity Estates and Second Home Ownership

Now, let’s compare some of the ways owning a second home is similar to Equity Estates.

Consistency & Quality

As a second homeowner or an Equity Estates investor, you get to avoid risking your time off. We know how important it is to have your expectations met (or better yet, exceeded). Our investors take comfort in knowing the quality of the home, the location, and the amenities will be impeccable every single time.

To assure our rigid quality standards, Equity Estates invests an average of $250,000 in furniture, fixtures, and equipment in each of our homes. Our 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.

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?

Problem solved if you have your own vacation home…or if you’re an investor in Equity Estates. Each home in our portfolio is stocked with 85 consumables – from olive oil to tin foil to bug spray to back up batteries. Our investors travel 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.

Clear Path to Liquidity

With both ownership options – an investment with Equity Estates or privately purchasing a second home – there is a clear path to liquidity. Our investors appreciate that each Equity Estates fund has a defined period when we will sell all the residences. With second home ownership, well, that’s all up to you.

Learn more about Equity Estates

Overall, our investment model is very different than owning a second home. When evaluating which option is the best for you or your family, it’s important to consider your current travel habits, investment goals, and (most importantly) your available time for maintenance and upkeep.

It’s worth noting at least 40% of Equity Estates investors also own a second home, too. So don’t think you can’t choose both to add more variety to your travels if your financial situation permits it.

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 or download our Fund VI Investment Overview to learn more.

15 Feb

Posted at 16:19h in Equity Estates by

Have you come across the fractional ownership or co-ownership investment model in your search? Fractionals have gained a lot of attention in recent years. While fractionals might seem like a viable solution for some families, investors with Equity Estates have been enjoying the benefits of our unique model and ownership structure for more than fifteen years.



3 Differences between Equity Estates and Fractionals

To start, let’s compare how Equity Estates greatly differs from a fractional model.

1. Variety of places to vacation

With Equity Estates, our investors have access to travel to all of the residences throughout our entire portfolio, not just a single home. Portfolio access means that our investors enjoy dozens of residences in more than 25 different countries across the globe. In comparison, traditional fractional ownership method owners will have a part ownership share in one specific residence, which means that their vacations will be limited to this one residence. Some fractionals claim access to other homes, but users will often find availability limited to off-season dates.

2. A clear path to liquidity

Another key difference is Equity Estates funds have a predefined divestment timeframe, which means there is a very clear and defined path to liquidity from the beginning of the investment. Our funds typically have a life of around 10 years before we start to liquidate and sell the homes, returning investors first their initial investment, and then 80% of the profits thereafter. For fractional owners, when/if they decide to sell their investment, there is no guarantee when the sale will happen or how long it will take. It could be a competitive landscape depending on how many fractional owners want to liquidate at a given time. Finding a specific buyer who might enjoy your specific weeks may take time.

3. Investment value

The investment value can also differ greatly between these models. Equity Estates focuses on $2 to $5 million dollar homes in top performing luxury vacation markets. Historically these assets have performed quite well. Conversely, fractionals have not historically been the best investment with limited liquidity options as well as a much smaller market and buying audience.



Similarities between Equity Estates and Fractionals

Now, let’s compare some of the ways fractional ownership is similar to Equity Estates.

No-stress maintenance

When compared to second home ownership, both fractional ownership and an investment with Equity Estates offer a way to enjoy a residence without the stress and responsibilities of dealing with maintenance issues. In both models, maintenance costs are shared, creating less financial and emotional burden to the owners.

Allocated annual nights

Equity Estates and fractional ownership models also have annual night allocations. Unlike a private residence, ownership is shared, and advance bookings and annual nightly allocations keep access equitable amongst owners.

Cost savings on overhead

Unless they are within a short drive of your primary residence, we’ve found that most vacation homes only get used a few weeks out of the year. Both Equity Estates and fractionals facilitate sharing the overhead cost of maintaining a home along with taxes and insurance. It’s a smart financial choice to keep your dollars working for you.

Learn more about Equity Estates

Overall, our investment model is very different than fractional ownership. 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 interested in learning more about our investment model? Fund V is currently open, and now is a great time to connect with a member of our Investor Relations team to learn why so many of our Fund I investors are already re-investing with Fund V.

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

02 Aug

Posted at 20:45h in Equity Estates by

Indulge in California’s famed Wine Country, a cornucopia of farm-to-table, fine dining, wine, and the good life. Defined by mountain ranges and influenced by its proximity to the Pacific Ocean, this region enjoys a dry Mediterranean climate perfectly suited for growing grapes and outdoor living. There is much more to do in Wine Country than drink wine and tour vineyards, including outdoor pursuits and sports, museums, history tours, cooking classes, and one-of-a-kind shopping. 

We interviewed Brittany, Destination Manager for our Wine Country home, to create the perfect itinerary for a visit. 

 

Day 1: Settle in and wine tasting in St. Helena  

Upon your arrival, your local host will greet you at the charming residence located in the heart of Wine Country.  Your home feels like a European country estate, with romantic views of a nearby vineyard and rolling hills for beautiful sunsets, lush gardens and a spacious, modern layout. After settling in, head to picturesque Main Street which is just a short bike ride or walk away to explore the shops, galleries and tasting rooms before dinner. Your concierge will arrange an afternoon tasting at a winery if you’d like to jump right into your experience. Nearby St. Helena is home to dozens of wineries and vineyards, including Beringer, Charles Krug and Louis M. Martini, plus the boutique and upscale Fantesca Estate, Somerston Estate, Trinchero Napa Valley and HALL Wines.  

There are exceptional restaurants nearby St. Helena is home to many of them. For dinner, your concierge will reserve a table for you at the well-known Goose and Gander which grows most of their produce on a local two-acre farm. Feast on amazing rustic American food from their seasonal menu, imbibe on the fresh, creative libations or a bottle of local wine.  Sip on the Hemingway Daiquiri or the Bali Spice Old Fashioned. Nibble on garden radishes, fried olives, farm cheeses and house cured charcuterie. Feast on steak, pork, chicken, fish and even delicious vegetarian entrees.  

 

Day 2: Special winery tours and the CIA way 

Today enjoy wine tastings nearby on your customized winery tour.  Private transportation with Beau Wine Tours & Limousine Service will be arranged and an itinerary unique to your taste and wine preferences will be crafted. Beau chauffeurs are not just drivers, they are knowledgeable ambassadors of the region and the wine industry. They will educate and enlighten for a truly enjoyable experience.  

Following your wine tasting tour, spend the afternoon learning to cook the CIA way at the famed Culinary Institute of America (CIA) in downtown. The CIA offers cooking classes and tours and what better place to be inspired by local ingredients and flavors! Your personal concierge will handle all the details, you just need to select the classroom of your choice: Farm to Table, Julia’s Kitchen: Celebrating French Cuisine, Cooking Fundamentals, or Flavors of the Mediterranean Table, to name a few.  

After class, walk along the paved river trail through town and shop the many boutiques and stores for that special memento. The CIA offers a gift shop and chef supply store for that perfect kitchen tool. For art lovers, there are galleries galore full of paintings, sculptures, pottery, photography and drawings. The Napa General Store is fun to shop for furniture, wine accessories, home goods, and locally made items. They also have a very popular patio and restaurant for a snack. Of course, there are the many tasting rooms and breweries to help you meander around town. For an early happy hour, head over to the Hog Island Oyster Bar at Oxbow Public Market. This deliciously casual oyster and seafood haven showcases the amazing farmers, fishermen and artisan food producers of the area.  

For dinner, you have a reservation at local favorite Brasswood Bar + Kitchen in St. Helena for an incredible menu of fresh comfort food inspired by local harvests. The atmosphere is cozy and warm. Try the Herb Infused Pappardelle and Short Rib Sugo or the Duck Bolognese in red wine sauce. Local wine and handmade cocktails complement your meal, and their Butterscotch Panna Cotta is the perfect end note. 

Day 3: Up, up, and away…  

Though you may have planned your trip for the wine, a sunrise hot air balloon ride with Napa Valley Balloons, Inc. just might become the highlight of your vacation. Your experienced and knowledgeable pilot will act as your guide, sharing interesting information and breathtaking views of the natural beauty of the region from above. 

Back on terra firma, enjoy a leisurely bike tour through the Calistoga Bike Shop to wrap up your final day. Your expert and fun guide will lead you on an outing, whether you’d like to explore nature, visit local villages or squeeze in a few more vineyards and tastings.  

Tonight, relax at home with Chef Alex, a legend with EE investors, for a five-star meal prepared in your home. Taste local wine and nibble on small bites on your beautiful terrace while Chef Alex creates a grilled peach and prosciutto salad, oven-roasted king salmon with corn and green squash, and grilled rack of lamb with fingerling potatoes. Be sure to save room for his famous pumpkin almond cake and caramel ice cream.  

 

At Home With Equity Estates  

Your Equity Estates home is gated and sits on a private vineyard with endless views of surrounding hills and landscapes. The backyard is stunning with lush, dramatic plantings, a garden of fresh herbs, tomato and artichoke plants. With an expansive chef’s kitchen, indoor and outdoor dining, large common areas and four bedrooms, this 4,000-square-foot home is designed for enjoying life with family and friends.  Enjoy a morning or afternoon swim in your beautiful pool. Take in a gorgeous starry night in the hot tub or under the covered patio by your outdoor fireplace. 

Your private concierge will work with you to plan your itinerary before you arrive and make your stay effortless by arranging reservations for activities and outings, transportation, and meals out or meals in. They will even pick up your groceries to ensure your gourmet kitchen and wine cellar are stocked with all your favorites from the local market.  Leave the details to us. With Equity Estates, comfort and luxury are yours.  

Travel with Equity Estates for a unique and memorable 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.  

 

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

 

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!