Tuesday, March 24, 2009

How to Succeed in Commercial Real Estate - No Matter What the Market is Doing

For some reason a few people took my article to mean that Armageddon is heading for apartments and investment real estate world. Well, that is not what I meant so lets get to the bottom of what I did mean.

First, there are always good deals to be found. No matter what the state of the market always keep in mind that there is always a good deal. If you know what you are doing you can make money in any market. Hot, cold, slow, fast, etc. It really does NOT matter. Now, are these deals going to come and knock on your door this evening and say,

“Hey, buy me, I am a great deal!!” You and I know that this does not happen (even though many people think that this will happen—you know the kind, no work plus a lot of work plus a few affirmations = success). Really good deals should not be easy to find. That is right, they should not be easy to locate. It gets back to the old saying of “If it was that easy….”

I Compare It To Needle In A Haystack

I do compare finding a great deal with finding a needle in a haystack. It is that difficult because of two things: 1) There just are not that many great deals on the market at all at any given time. It gets back to the old 80%—20% rule but in my opinion when it comes to investment real estate I think it is more of a 95%—5% rule.

Some of My Best Clients Still Need Reminding

Even some of my best clients need reminding of this. When some of them contact me they are disappointed that I do not have a great deal for them right there on the spot. Or, even if they have to wait a few weeks many start getting antsy. Let me give you a great real estate law to live by. Let's call this Garman’s Law: Here it is…..

All Great Real Estate Deals Happen Slow…. Not Fast.

The best real estate deals that I have ever been involved in were slow movers. Slow finding the property, slow due diligence, slow negotiation, etc. It was slow not fast. It is the fast deals that you need to be concerned about. These are the ones that can disappoint you.

So who’s left??

Here is the writing on the wall. If this is the case and our good and even substandard tenants are getting financing to buy their own place, who is left over to rent your property??

People serving time! (Just kidding). But close, people that are sooo bad that they could not get a loan. And, most of the time these are people that you do not want occupying your rental home, apartment or commercial property either.

So, what do you do? Do you run away from this, get out of the commercial investment business altogether?

Of course not. But, you better make sure

So What Does All Of This Have To Do With Ease Of Credit And The Effect Of IT on Us...The Commercial Real Estate Owners and Investors….

Here is what it means :

1) Great deals will not be as easy to find.

2) Great deals will take longer to find.

3) You will need to be a very, very good manager to lock in profits. No more winging it.

4) You will have to do more due diligence.

5) Bottom line? You will have to ask more questions.

The Main Reason People Work With ME

Of course, the main reason people work with me is that I do all of this for them. Simple as that. However, even though this is the case and I do save people A LOT of time and hassle and they do get good properties from me….They need to be asking more questions. The majority of people that I work with DO NOT ask enough questions.

So keep all of this in mind as you go through the investment part of your life. Especially in the commercial real estate world. Nothing worth it is easy. Nothing worth it comes to you overnight. You are building wealth not an erector set.

Always Remember 95%—5%

By the way, this applies to more things than just real estate but we will keep it here on our investment real estate planet for now. The best thing you can do is be hooked up to me, constantly aware of what is going on in the marketplace. Always informed. And when that great deal comes up you will know it and not even question it.

About Darin Garman, CCIM…Considered by many to be one of the foremost experts in North America on Apartment and Commercial Property Investments, Darin Garman assists investors in maximizing their wealth through commercial real estate investments

Over the last 13 years Darin has assisted investors in the purchase and sale of over $300,000,000 in apartments and commercial real estate, and has direct ownership and management of over $11,000,000 in investment real estate himself

Darin is a frequent guest on radio and TV talk shows, and has co-authored books such as “Wealth Attraction For Entrepreneurs...The No Holds Barred Kick Butt Guide To Becoming Rich”, which was co-authored by Darin with business and marketing guru Dan Kennedy

Commercial Property in Hemet California

It seems that no matter where you go, a new business is going up. These new businesses require space, and that space is facilitated by qualified real estate agents. If you are ready to take the plunge and start your own business, or if your already existing business simply needs room to expand, you will want to explore your options in commercial property. This selection of real estate is sold especially to be used to conduct businesses. There are many categories of commercial property, including those used for retail, industry, hotel development, office space, and residential development. Whatever your business, there are endless options when it comes to choosing a piece of land to build on. However, there are a few things to keep in mind when searching for that perfect location.

Study Your Surroundings
This may seem like a no-brainer, but it is important to study the history of your selected site. Make sure you find a trusted and respected real estate agent who will be able to provide you with all the information you need about your selected property, whether it is about problems that past owners had, or conditions that are not up to standard and will need repair. Some pieces of commercial property are better suited for one activity and will not lend themselves well to others. Unless you have a specific plan in mind and marketing geniuses to help you, don’t try to turn an office building into a restaurant, and vice versa.

Be Accessible
Be sure your property is accessible to your expected public. Make certain that there is ample parking nearby, either in a lot or a garage if not along the street. Look at the entrances and exits to any already existing buildings on your property, and be sure that they are accessible to all people (unless you plan on restructuring or demolishing any existing buildings).

Be Safe
As always, prices vary greatly depending on the size of the property, the location, and the existence and condition of any buildings on the property. Expect this endeavor to be quite an investment, requiring into the millions of dollars in some cases, depending on the size and desirability of the property. With this in mind, seek out the services of a qualified realtor. He or she will be able to provide you with a great deal of information regarding your options and rights. This professional will also be able to direct you to opportunities in your area that you may not otherwise be aware of.

Keep in mind that the most important thing to remember when beginning this process is the purpose of your business. Be sure that the property you choose adequately reflects and will allow you to portray your business’ mission and goals. With the right resources, you will be ready to begin your search for that perfect piece of real estate. Explore all your options, and you are sure to find the commercial property that is right for you and your business.

Tuesday, March 17, 2009

Five of the Best Chalets and Luxury Villas in France

There are countless wonderful hotels in France, but sometimes the exclusive seclusion offered by a villa or chalet is just what you need to really enjoy your holiday. The combination of privacy and luxury, beautiful locations and outstanding service mark the very best French luxury villas and chalets from their competitors. A catered villa with its own staff offers you the kind of personal attention that is rarely found at even the top hotel, and a self-catered villa can offer you the peace and seclusion to get away from it all.

If that all sounds perfect and you are looking for a few accommodation options to get you started, here are five of the finest chalets and luxury villas in France...

The Annapurna Chalet, Chamonix

Perfect for a five star ski holiday or just a relaxing break amid the Alps, the Annapurna Chalet in Chamonix is one of the premier accommodation options in France. With a dedicated staff, including a resident Chef, your every wish can be catered for, and the simple yet luxurious wooden architecture and excellent facilities (including an indoor pool and outdoor heated spa) ensure that this is an Alpine break with all the amenities of the very best luxury hotels.

La Bastide De Grand Boise, Provence

Located in the heart of Provence, it only opened in 2007 but is already recognised as one of the grandest luxury villas in France. Surrounded by vast swathes of olive groves and vineyards and designed in the Provencal style, La Bastide De Grand Boise is a real feast for the senses. It can accommodate up to sixteen visitors, and is especially recommended for families - the swimming pool and gardens of this French luxury villaare perfect for keeping children entertained.

Le Mas De La Rose, Provence

Also located in the beautiful Provencal countryside, Le Mas De La Rose is another excellent option if you are looking for a luxury villa in France. Accommodating up to twenty people, the simple elegance of the stone architecture and the landscaped garden make this one of the most picturesque French luxury villas.

Les Granges D'en Haut, Chamonix

This group of chalets, located near Chamonix, is another excellent option for a luxury ski break. Laid out like a tiny village complete with gardens and winding paths, it is an idyllic retreat in the heart of the French Alps - this luxurious village also features its own restaurant and a spa, along with private massages available in your cabin. Whether you come to enjoy the excellent skiing in winter or the delights of an Alpine spring, Les Granges D'en Haut is an outstanding accommodation choice.

Manoir De La Baronie, Dordogne

Manoir De La Baronie offers all the benefits of a luxury French villa within the charming elegance of a converted country house. This is the perfect home-away-from-home to explore the Dordogne, one of France's premier wine regions, and the extensive activity facilities, on-call house staff and the rustic comfort of the bedrooms and living spaces combine to make this a real hidden gem.

A Tourist's Guide to the Best Restaurants in Luxembourg


Luxembourg is the only Grand Duchy in the world. Though small, it is also an excellent tourist destination. Indeed, there are many romantic attractions you can visit and plenty of fun activities you can do. You can also have a taste of great cuisine and excellent service at one of the restaurants in Luxembourg.

One of the finest restaurants in Luxembourg is the La Table des Guilloux, which was given a rating of two stars by the prestigious Michelin Guide. This means that the restaurant is certified to offer an excellent cuisine, a reputation it lives up to through the great-tasting dishes cooked by the chef, Pierrick Guilloux, himself, which include pan-fried fresh cod and oxtail stuffed with foie gras.

The other two-starred Michelin restaurant in Luxembourg is the Mosconi restaurant, which is also one of the few Michelin-starred Italian restaurants outside Italy. Like the La Table des Guilloux, the Mosconi is also managed by a couple - the chef, Ilario Mosconi, and his wife, Simonetta, and also boasts of a romantic riverside ambience.

Another restaurant with a romantic ambience is the Les Roses, which is one of the restaurants in Luxembourg's only casino, the Casino 2000 at Mondorf-les-Bains. This restaurant serves French cuisine and is known for living up to its name with its lavish rose decor.

If you're after a cozy atmosphere, though, you can go to the Manoir Kasselslay, an elegant country house that offers comfortable accommodations as well as creative dishes, such as crawfish with gnocchis and saffron. It offers mouth-watering sorbets for dessert, as well.

You can also reserve a table at the Toit Pour Toi, a French gourmet restaurant with a relaxed atmosphere. Located in Schouweiler, this restaurant has an impressive decor, including a vertical rotisserie, elegant candlesticks and a beautiful fireplace, which, combined with its Michelin-starred cuisine, make it one of the most popular restaurants in Luxembourg.

Although not a Michelin-starred restaurant, the Apoteca is also worth a visit. Aside from having a great wine bar and charming decor, it offers well-prepared dishes from all over the world, including an Oriental prawn and red curry soup, beef carpaccio and a lamb burger.

There are plenty of other restaurants in Luxembourg, as well, along with cafes and outdoor food markets. True, most of these may be a little expensive but they're sure to be worth it, especially since they can make your trip to Luxembourg a true feast for the senses.

Sunday, February 22, 2009

Sedona Hotels


Sedona is regarded as one of the favorite places for vacationing in America. The breathtaking red rock landscape with its dynamic beauty attracts tourists in all the four seasons of the year. The place is perfect for a holiday trip for both lone nature lovers as well as for families. The dynamic rugged terrains are ideal for trekkers while the colossal red monoliths are the idyllic heaven for soul rejuvenators far from the hue and cry of the bustling city life. Since the place is visited by tourists throughout the year, you would find a wide variety of Sedona hotels offering quality lodging services.

There are many hotels and resting places in Sedona that are of varying accommodation rates. The following are some Sedona hotels that offer plush lodging facilities for tourists belonging to varied economic strata.

Hotels in Sedona

The Arroyo Roble and Creekside Villas - The hotel is situated at North Highway 89A and is owned by the famous Best Western group. This hotel is one of the long chain of hotels owned by the group. Set at the serene back drop of the red rock locale, the hotel offer facilities like swimming, fishing, hiking in the clear waters of the Oak Creek. This 3 star hotel in Sedona has rooms, villas and cottages that are close to the dining and shopping corners of Sedona.

Southwest Inn Sedona - This 3 tar Hotel is one of the popular Sedona hotels. The hotel is close to the famous Cathedral Rock Vortex. The dining and shopping areas are also close by. The Hotel has been voted as one of "Best places to stay in Sedona' for 3 years continuously. The hotel is well equipped with developed lodging amenities. The interior design of the hotel would give a traditional ambience but at the same time you would be able to enjoy the latest accommodation facilities. Southwest Inn Sedona is a combination of both luxury rooms and bread and break fast services.

The rooms feature artistically designed furniture, fireplace, washroom, hot tub along with well maintained swimming pool, wireless internet, cable T.V provisions and such.

L'Auberge De Sedona - This hotel has rooms constructed in French style. Its location is bit far from the high way and so the hotel is the perfect place for romantic couples and visitors willing to skip the maddening crowd of the humdrum urban life. The hotel boasts serving its visitors with palatable French dish of great taste.

Sedona is spotted with quality budget hotels. It would be ideal for you to check out Sedona lodging choices from the internet before visiting the place.

Friday, February 13, 2009

Five Essential Luxury Holiday Experiences

If you are planning on taking a luxury or tailor made holiday abroad it can be hard to narrow down your choices, with dozens of destinations and holiday experiences worldwide catering to the discerning luxury traveller. But while there are plenty of five star experiences available, there are a few that really stand out from the crowd - these are five of the most exciting, exotic, and enjoyable luxury holidays in the world...

Holidaying in Dubai, the Millionaires' Playground

Dubai has come out of nowhere in recent years to become one of the premier luxury holiday destinations. Famed for its opulent hotels, luxurious entertainments and utterly outlandish building projects (a quarter of the world's cranes are believed to be operating in the emirate), a holiday in Dubai is a five star experience from start to finish. From haggling in the Gold Souk for jewellery to taking lunch in the famous "7 Star" Burj Al Arab luxury hotel, there's little that money can't buy in this beguiling Middle Eastern city.

Luxury Island Hopping in Greece

The Greek Islands are famed for their beauty and their diversity, so why settle for a single island on your luxury holiday? From the spectacular natural sights of Santorini to the sophisticated nightlife of Mykonos, each island has its own particular highlights and individual charms, and are best experienced on an island hopping programme, skipping from one luxury hotel to the next on island after island. Plenty of companies offer a range of island hopping itineraries and there are many opportunities for a tailor made holiday in the Greek Islands, taking in the highlights of your choice.

Cruising Down the Nile

Well known as a country of archaeological delights, the best way to experience the highlights of Egypt in style is on a luxury cruise down the Nile. From the comfort of a five star cruise ship, you can see the Valley of the Kings, the Temple at Karnak, the Great Pyramids of Giza, and countless other stunning sights. The luxury facilities on offer on cruise ships such as the MS Oberoi have to be seen to be believed; you'll want for nothing on one of these trips into the heart of Egypt.

Relaxing at a Riad in Marrakech

Exotic, chaotic Morocco combines a range of diverse elements: traditional Arabic culture, European sophistication and a beautiful location on the coast of North Africa. If you are spending time in Marrakech, a stay in one of the city's riads will provide a true feast for the senses. They are some of finest boutique hotels in the world; small, intimate, beautifully designed and often family owned, they provide personalised luxury in the heart of the city.

Staying in a Venice Luxury Hotel

Venice, "The City of Light", remains one of the most unforgettable sights in the world. This romantic and mysterious city is the ideal destination for a luxury holiday - the unique medieval architecture of this canal city has been entrancing visitors for centuries, and the restaurants and luxury hotels are amongst the finest in Italy. If you can, time your visit for the world famous Carnival of Venice in February, when elaborately dressed figures fill the streets and masked balls are held throughout the city.

Monday, February 9, 2009

Amazing Types of Hotels in Ocean City


Ocean City is famous for conventions and meetings with its gorgeous wide resorts and beaches near Washington, Baltimore, the Delmarva Peninsula and the entire mid-Atlantic. Tourists love this city to go hit the beach with their loved ones of children.

Other than the beaches, there are also a lot of attractions to see. Even the children will enjoy strolling around and taking in the beautiful sites the city is offering.

Ocean City has hotels like Carousel Hotel and Condominiums, and Marigot Beach Condominiums. Several hotels have an overlooking view of Atlantic Ocean. Most are close attractions sites such as Ocean City Outlets, the Assateague Island National Seashore, Rehoboth Beach Outlets and the Ocean City Boardwalk.

The Carousel Hotel and Condominiums offers outdoor and indoor pools, a fitness center and a whirlpool. Their arcade or game room is ideal for guest entertainment. Their indoor ice skating area is also ideal for those who love the ice, amidst the changing seasons.

They have a pirate ship playing field s great for keeping children busy, while you enjoy luxurious on-site saunas. It also has conference rooms, having wireless internet access and audio-visual equipments. These rooms can be rented out for various functions like social or business gatherings.

There are also souvenir shops and restaurants inside. You can buy presents for friends you left at home. The restaurants serve your favorite American cuisine.

The Marigot Beach Hotel Condominiums has an arcade or game room, a full-service health spa, an indoor swimming pool and whirlpool. It has a private beach exclusive to guests. The rooms are spacious and have a good view of the ocean. There are big rooms also large groups of 6 to 8 people. Rooms have a kitchen, dining area, living room and laundry area. They are equipped with the basic amenities also.

The Coconut Malorie Resort has a British Colonial-style resort, having exquisite landscaped waterfalls and marble lobbies. They also feature Caribbean-styled decorations having Haitian artwork designs all throughout.

Enjoy the view of the bay as well as the romantic sunrise and sunset at the 7th floor. You will also find yourself overwhelmed by the beautiful views of the majestic Atlantic Ocean. It also features an Oasis Pool Bar and an Oasis Pool Deck, overlooking views of the Isle of Wigth Bay. Additional facilities are a table tennis, an arcade, board games, conference rooms and a business center, along with organized activities for both children and adults.

The Princess Bayside Beach Hotel maintains fashionable amenities that provide comfortable accommodations. They have an outdoor and indoor pool. There is a business room convenient for holding meetings and other functions.

The Finnigans Irish Pub and Eatery inside serves traditional American fare, steaks and even seafood. It also has a laundry facility.

Clarion Resort Fontainebleau is only nine miles from the Ocean City airport. It has a sauna and fitness center. It offers room service, and live entertainment inside the hotel and right on the beach. There is a nightclub, two oceanfront restaurants and a Sunday brunch accommodation provided. Rooms have wireless internet access. Laundry service is available.

The Best Western Sea Bay Inn offers safety-deposit boxes, business services and breakfast for a fee. Guests can enjoy amenities like outdoor and indoor pools, fully equipped conference rooms, boasting of accommodations for up to 75 people.