Signs of economic recovery in the offing:Green Shoots !!!

Unless you work in finance or follow markets closely, the date September 15, 2008, will probably mean little to you. That was the day the long bull market came to a halt with the bankruptcy of Lehman Brothers. The unthinkable had happened. Wall Street was at the brink. The ensuing months brought more bad news as markets tumbled and we saw a worldwide economic downturn. Some called it a severe recession while others used the dreaded “D” word. However, most market gurus and several prominent economists now agree that the worst has past and there are signs of recovery in the offing: green shoots they are called.


What the heck is a green shoot?

I admit that it took me a moment or two on my morning drive while listening to Bloomberg to understand what this phrase meant in an economic context. I am fond of the English language and admire those who take the time to use it properly. It should not be surprising therefore that I am alternately bemused and annoyed by some of the catch phrases and “buzz words” that we so readily adopt. I do not twitter, blog or text but do enjoy well written articles.

Ok, I admit that I am a devotee of The Economist.

That publication recently reported that in a single week there were 68 references to economic green shoots in the world’s major media. This compares to none at the end of 2008. While constant use of this catch phrase gets more than a little tiresome with each passing day it is actually very good news. There are “early signs of economic recovery” (aka green shoots) which means that better news will surely follow. Changing the news cycle to positive reporting on the economy from what we have had is surely the first step to changing attitudes and creating confidence. Confidence is what we all need to have, in order to right the economy.

Here is some encouraging information on the economy:

 CMHC predicts that the Canadian housing market as a whole will stabilize in 2009 and rebound in 2010.

 CMHC forecasts that the Kelowna market will stabilize in 2009 and show modest recovery in 2010.

 The average British Columbia residential resale selling price in 2009 is expected to moderate to $452,000 which is down modestly from $454,599 in 2008 but well above the 2006 figure of $390,693.

 Major stock market indices have rebounded from lows in March 2009.

 Brokers anecdotally report their investor clients are exhibiting increased confidence.

Yes, there are still some decidedly negative economic indicators. Additionally there are others that provide a mixed outlook for the immediate future. Full recovery will not take place overnight. We are not where we want to be now but I am confident that we are on the right path.

All those green shoots can’t be wrong!


Guest Contributor:

Ronald N.Palmer, CIM, AMP
President / Taylor Capital Inc.
101-1865 Dilworth Drive, Suite 626,
Kelowna, BC, V1Y 9T1
Phone: 250-446-2868
Fax: 604-628-3779
http://www.ronaldpalmer.com/


Jerry Dombowsky
Premier Hotels and Motels - The Connections to close the deal
#6-3185 Via Centrale, Kelowna, British Columbia V1V 2A7
Phone: 250.717.1886
Fax: 250.765.0577
Toll-Free: 1.866.765.0579
Email: jerry@pcrealty.ca
Web: http://www.premierhotelsandmotels.com/

Preparing Your Business For Sale.....,

When selling your business, it makes good sense to present your property in the best shape if you want to maximize your investment.

When entering the property, the first impression the client sees is a lasting one.

If you are in an area where landscaping and greenery are evident, it is important to have the shrubbery trimmed, grass manicured and the flowers looking their very best. Organic fertilizers are the way to go and displaying evidence of this in strategically located areas, will show to your client, that you are thinking GREEN.

If you are like most properties, and have a paved parking lot, you should look at having it sealed and new lines painted. The client will notice this immediately and will demonstrate pride of ownership. If you have concrete or interlocking brick, you may want to power wash to give that clean look. Sweep the greenery and dust that has accumulated in the gutters and borders of the parking lot.

These aesthetically pleasing upkeeps are not costly... only labour is required.

At this stage, the client should be feeling good about the property.

When he/she walks into the lobby/office, small or large, this area should be decorated suitably. The employees behind the desk, should be dressed appropriately to greet clients. A professional operation will assist in the sale of the property.

The rooms should be clean, clean. The mattresses and bedding be of good quality. The rooms to be as modern as one’s budget will allow. The bathroom taking centre stage with more detail given to cleanliness, no mould around tubs, and all caulking in good repair and applied professionally.

This is very important for the prospective buyer. Financial performance is the main criteria for valuing any business. The bottom line cash flow is the main element which determines value unless you are in a re-developing area and land value is the greatest determining factor. Having three previous year’s financials, including monthly sales for that period plus monthly income and expenses, from the last year end date to the present time will satisfy the prospective buyer and for the appraiser if a contract is written.

Have a record of improvements completed, to the property, in the last two years, be they, physical improvements or promotional and marketing initiatives put in place. An example could be, website development or anything which may enhance future prospects. Buyers sometimes only see what needs to be done and are oblivious to what has been accomplished. Bring it to their attention through your sales representative.

Remember when obtaining a price from a professional, he has not sentimental feelings to the property and will usually give you an honest opinion. If you are not happy with his evaluation, you can always get a bank approved appraisal because this is want the bank is going to lend on, in the end.

Jerry Dombowsky
Premier Hotels and Motels - The Connections to close the deal
#6-3185 Via Centrale, Kelowna,
British Columbia V1V 2A7
Phone: 250.717.1886
Fax: 250.765.0577
Toll-Free: 1.866.765.0579
Email: jerry@pcrealty.ca

Web: http://www.premierhotelsandmotels.com/

BC motel realtor, selling hotels in BC

The Olympics Are Upon Us......

What can the Hotel/Motel Association do to enhance their product for all of the people that will be converging upon our province in February, 2010?

It may be too late for the association to do something if they aren’t already in the midst of planning before now. I am sure they have, but if not, there is still time for your local area, local community or individual owners to get the message out promoting your area.

The Internet is the most effective tool that you may have.

The 1988 Olympics, in Calgary, found that one-third of the visitors stayed in the area for up to an additional two weeks to explore and see what Alberta had to offer.

You can be sure the visitor coming to The Olympics in 2010, are quite computer savvy. They will have already started surfing for information on the diverse geography and tourist opportunities British Columbia has available. A lot of people will extend their holidays beyond The Olympics.

Recently we had reserved a weekend in Seattle to see those dreaded Yankees play ball. The hotel we had made arrangements through, had emailed us three times building up our stay with them. One email was about points of interest and activities we could see and do in the area, with links to investigate further. I think that was a nice touch.

There are some websites offering very good coverage that an individual property owner can join relatively inexpensive, or better yet, a community can get together to save money and advertise through a popular site. Obtain display material, from The Olympic Committee, to have in your rooms or in the lobby of your property. You will receive positive feedback.

We sometimes get complacent about the area we live in but, make no mistake, that the area you reside in has many special and unique attractions for the visitor from another country or the next province.

Talk to the local Chamber of Commerce, getting them involved to keep the visitor in your area for a longer period of time. Even one more night can pay huge dividends to the community. If they don’t stay longer, maybe they will remember your area and want to come back another time in the future plus tell people about your area back home. After the visitor leaves, send a follow up email two weeks after they have left, thanking them for utilizing your facility and that you look forward to their next visit.

Tourism British Columbia and Alberta can help with the promotion of your community at this late date.

Jerry Dombowsky
Premier Hotels and Motels - The Connections to close the deal
#6-3185 Via Centrale, Kelowna,
British Columbia V1V 2A7
Phone: 250.717.1886
Fax: 250.765.0577
Toll-Free: 1.866.765.0579
Email: jerry@pcrealty.ca
Web: http://www.premierhotelsandmotels.com/

How to keep travelers and vacationers in your region!

Travelling through diverse areas of British Columbia and Alberta this summer, attempting to meet as many property owners as possible, I have come to appreciate the beauty that exists in these provinces. The majestic north of Terrace, B.C. and area to the spectacular hoodoos of the Badlands in Drumheller, AB where the dinosaurs once roamed millions of years ago left quite an impression.

It is apparent that some communities have done a great job in restoring historical sites and publicizing their many attractions, attributing to tourists’ longer durations, discovering a new adventure at every turn. What wonderful memories to take back home, sharing their experiences with people they know!

In talking to travellers, the majority of them said they were not travelling as far this summer but that they wanted to explore the areas closer to home. This is where a community working cohesively together can capitalize on, not only the tourists but business travellers. Imparting information about the area would entice these travellers to spend extra time getting acquainted with the venues brought to their attention. The more a community works together, the more all businesses will flourish.

It’s great to receive the far away world tourist but it can be a great feeling for the area visitor to give you positive feedback. These are the people who will keep coming back.

During my travels, I had stopped in at one information center that made quite an impression on me. I had asked the female attendant how I could spend my holiday in the area. Of the selections discussed, she gave me a circle tour that would keep me in that area for four days.

This is something that a good accommodation operator could train the staff to present to the inquisitive tourist. Offering to map out attractions to see, ultimately keeping the clientele in the area for a longer period of time would be of benefit, not only to the traveller, but to your operation.

Chances are this traveller will come back to your place in the future because of the helpful assistance given during their last stay. You can bet, they will be talking to their friends and co-workers about the helpful people at your memorable place!

Jerry Dombowsky
Premier Hotels and Motels - The Connections to close the deal
#6-3185 Via Centrale, Kelowna,
British Columbia V1V 2A7
Phone: 250.717.1886
Fax: 250.765.0577
Toll-Free: 1.866.765.0579
Email: jerry@pcrealty.ca
Web: http://www.premierhotelsandmotels.com/

BC motel realtor, selling hotels in BC

CREATIVE WAYS FOR THE ACCOMMODATION INDUSTRY “TO GO GREEN”

More and more travellers prefer to stay at accommodations that are “greening” their locations.

Owners may think that the cost is too great but studies have shown that, by making changes, such as windows, doors and that old air-conditioning/heating unit will save you energy costs because the new products are made to run more efficient.

Another way to save and go green, is to have employee TEAMS compete against each other for going green and saving money by giving those teams rewards every quarter or semi-annually.

It is infectious to employees and guests if the word gets out by notices placed in gathering locations like the restaurant or continental breakfast area instead of each room thereby saving paper and ink.

The Following ideas were obtained when I was doing some research for one of my clients from an article written by Amy Nutt for the accommodation industry . It reviews the many ways that hotels and motels can make their properties more eco-friendly and save money in the end.
It would be nice to hear remarks from the recipients of this email to find out what practices you utilize to benefit the environment. Your comments are welcome on my blog.

Jerry Dombowsky

Ways Hotels Can Be Eco-Friendly
By Amy Nutt

As we learn more about the threats to our environment, more people are embracing a 'Green' lifestyle. Businesses are now realizing that they also need to make changes in order to adopt a more environmentally friendly operation. One business area that is beginning to recognize the need to be more 'green' is the hotel industry.

Many hotels are responding to consumer demands for a healthier and greener lifestyle by making their businesses more environmentally friendly.

Ways that hotels can make their business eco-friendly include:

1. Implement a towel and linens reuse program. Recycle stained tablecloths into napkins, and aprons. You can also make cloth laundry bags from old sheets.



2. Adopt a non-smoking policy for the entire hotel.



3. Provide guestroom recycle baskets and bins for newspaper, white paper, glass products, aluminum cans, cardboard, and plastics. Provide recycling bins in public areas.



4. Use fluorescent lights instead of incandescent bulbs. Install devices that power down heating and cooling systems when guests leave the room.



5. Adopt the use of nontoxic cleaners by housekeepers. Adopt other cleaning practices such as cleaning the windows with vinegar instead of chemicals. Dispense shampoo and soap from large containers instead of disposable plastic bottles.



6. Offer guests walking maps and information on public transportation.



7. Provide bicycles to guests for sightseeing excursions



8. Use electric or battery operated lawnmowers. Use a mulcher to chop up the garden clippings to make your own mulch. Ban the use of pesticides and chemical fertilizer. Use only organic products on the lawn and garden. Use 'Gray' water from the showers and sinks for ponds and landscaping. Compost food waste and use it as fertilizer.



9. Create an organically-grown vegetable garden for the restaurant.



10. If the hotel has a pool and/or hot tub, install a solar water heating system and use pool and hot tub covers when the pool area is closed.



11. Use recycled paper and pens with soy ink. Use recycled paper products that are either unbleached or bleached using a chlorine free process. (brochures, menus, comment cards, stationery products)



12. Stock mini-bars with organic or natural snacks and beverages.



13. Install low flow toilets and shower heads.



14. Replace old washing machines with both water and energy conserving models.



15. Use daylight as a light source as much as possible. Use solar energy as a lighting and energy source. Install dimmers on light switches to save energy.



16. Sponsor environmental education programs for guests and the surrounding community.



17. Preserve the property in as much of a natural state as possible. Plant trees and flowers.



18. Earn hotel 'Green' Credentials. Have the hotel certified as 'green' by an organisation such as an independent, national, and state organization that certifies eco-hotels. An example is the Washington-based Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED), an architectural and building organization.



19. Use furniture made from responsibly harvested 'new growth' wood such as bamboo.



20. Use low emission paints and other material.



21. Stock the rooms with toilet paper and facial tissue made from recycled products.



22. Buy products and services from eco-friendly vendors.
    

Being green means 'Green' hotels are adopting environmentally friendly practices and programs that will reduce energy, water, and waste. Hotels use a tremendous amount of energy and water as well as collect a huge amount of waste. By doing their part to conserve, recycle, and reduce, they are protecting the planet as well as providing a great place for eco-friendly guests to stay.

About the Author Amy Nutt
Toronto hotels offering business class executive suites, meeting facilities and more. Many location across the GTA to serve you better. Visit us at airport hotel

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Hotels and Motels for Sale BC Alberta Canada

When Is The Best Time To Sell Or Buy in British Columbia?

It can be easier than you think if you follow a few steps:

Why do I want to sell? There can be many reasons. I want a larger property. I am very comfortable operating this property but I have some extra cash from being a good operator. I’m thinking now is the time to move up to a larger property. The property is in good condition and I should get maximum dollar because the new buyer will not have to spend any money to improve it, for now.

How do I sell the property and what method do I use to get the maximum price? Do I try myself or hire a professional. Selling it “myself”, very seldom works because a sign or ad doesn’t usually get the results you want. The professional has potential buyers waiting to purchase from areas far away. The professional is usually dealing on multiple properties and has multiple clients looking for a variety of property types.

In today’s market place, the professional should have a quality website and, this, above all other advertising will bring the good buyer.

PRICE: This is the most important of all the items that should transpire before selling. The seller always has a price in mind but he or she should always listen to the professional because they usually come in with no emotion attached to the property and will give you an honest opinion. Most of the time, properties that sell are the ones that had a price assigned by a good, honest professional.

If you have any doubts, get an appraisal completed by a bank approved appraiser. The rates, today, are at an all time low and a purchaser can save thousands of dollars over the life of the mortgage if they get in now. There is a lot of action in the market place at this moment with buyers looking for that “right priced property”.

OR... do I just want to retire and get out of the business altogether. If this is your wish, then the above thoughts will work for you as well.

Jerry DombowskyPremier Hotels and Motels - The Connections to close the deal
#6-3185 Via Centrale, Kelowna,
British Columbia V1V 2A7
Phone:250.317.0432
Fax: 250.767.3276
Toll-Free: 1.866.765.0579
http://www.premierhotelsandmotels.com/
http://premierhotelsandmotels.blogspot.com/

Hotels and Motels for Sale BC Alberta Canada

Are you leveraging the Vancouver 2010 OLYMPICS to your advantage as a hotel and motel operator?

The Vancouver BC, 2010 Olympics are coming and this can be positive for the B.C. accommodation hotel and motel industry and, to a lesser degree, the Alberta accommodation industry.

If my memory serves me right (and it has been a long time since the Winter Olympics in Calgary), this event showcased the province of Alberta to the world putting this province on “the map”. The Winter Olympics provided a boost to the economy, not only to Calgary and the surrounding area, but to The Province of Alberta. For a number of years after The Olympics, the benefits to tourism for Alberta and British Columbia, was a direct result of the “1988 Big Show”.

The astute BC hotel and motel operator that has an outstanding website and a clean operation can reap the benefits for several years after The BC Olympics. Not only will the accommodations surrounding the Vancouver BC 2010 Olympics venues reap the benefits but outlying areas will also do well. There is an immense range of diversity in both provinces and the good hotel and motel operator will take advantage of depicting the beauty and attractions in his or her area.

The out of country/province traveller wants to know what your area has to offer. Sometimes, after living in an area for awhile, we tend to forget what our special area offers with many diverse features and sights. From the unique restaurant in the area to the back country with its lakes, mountains and forests, Alberta and British Columbia have awe inspiring views with everything to offer the sports enthusiast to individuals wishing to pass tranquil moments. Sometimes the unique “old timers” can help you out with information that is not known to the general public. Get to know the people in your area. You will be viewed more positively than other owners.

The keen BC hotel and motel operator will be thinking of items of interest that he or she can establish on their website to entice the Vancouver BC, 2010 Olympics traveller to “come and explore and stay” in their area. Tourists will travel far if he or she sees something on your website that tweaks their interest.

The tourists are coming. You are in control in the portrayal of what makes you stand out from other operations.

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Jerry DombowskyPremier Hotels and Motels - The Connections to close the deal
#6-3185 Via Centrale, Kelowna,
British Columbia V1V 2A7
Phone:250.317.0432
Fax: 250.767.3276
Toll-Free: 1.866.765.0579
http://www.premierhotelsandmotels.com/
http://premierhotelsandmotels.blogspot.com/

Hotels and Motels for Sale BC Alberta Canada

Positive Signs as Canadian Resale Home Numbers Increase in February for Kelowna and British Columbia

As reported by Economic Development Commission - March 23, 2009

The Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA) reports that the number of resale homes sold in February through agents who use the multiple listing systems (MLS) rose 8.6 percent above seasonally adjusted levels for January.

The seasonally adjusted residential MLS sales figure rose to 28,669 homes, marking the first monthly increase in activity since September of last year.

Monthly seasonal increases were the largest in British Columbia, with a rise of 14.4 per cent, followed by Nova Scotia at 12.7 percent and Alberta at 11.9 percent. Ontario and Quebec saw increases on par with the national average.

"Typically, the spring market we're moving into generates more activity," said CREA president Calvin Lindberg. "And this year there are the benefits from historically low mortgage rates and improved affordability in most markets."

Click here for more MLS statistics from CREA.

Jerry DombowskyPremier Hotels and Motels - The Connections to close the deal
#6-3185 Via Centrale, Kelowna,
British Columbia V1V 2A7
Phone:250.317.0432
Fax: 250.767.3276
Toll-Free: 1.866.765.0579
http://www.premierhotelsandmotels.com/
http://premierhotelsandmotels.blogspot.com/

Hotels and Motels for Sale BC Alberta Canada

WHAT BENEFITS CAN YOU EXPECT DURING A MARKET DOWN TURN

The Hotel Association of Canada released an extensive survey conveying very interesting results. Some of the findings were, with the economy slow down, you would think you would see a downward impact on travel but.... NOT SO.

Three-quarters of Canadians said they were still going to travel. They may not stay as long or stay at high end hotels/bed and breakfasts. They may not spend as much on dining out. This could be a great opportunity for the hotelier to come out with some innovative ideas for extended free night stays or other enticements. The creative owner/manager will adapt to the current situation and come out stronger in the end.

The business traveller requires more access to facilities such as the latest technology in internet access/projector; small meeting room with up-to-date furnishings and accessories accommodating 4-6 individuals for a minimal cost.

The Canadian traveller utilizes the internet to access the most suitable accommodations for their specific needs. Three-quarters of business and leisure travellers say that the high-end hotels’ testimonials will influence where they stay. If the lower-rate accommodation properties have good testimonials on their website, they too, will benefit.

Almost two-thirds of travellers are using the internet to book their accommodation and over 90% are downloading maps and directions. They are taking virtual tours to look at the on-line photos to see where they will be staying and what amenities and attractions are in the area. It is very important to have a clean, sharp looking site and go “that extra mile” to developing a quality website.

Loyalty program rewards may not have played a big roll when the economy was better but now, may be a deciding factor where and how much longer a business or holiday traveller may stay. The clever operator will market that side of the business and will benefit greatly from the extra stay time.

There can always be a silver lining to all aspects of the economy.

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Jerry DombowskyPremier Hotels and Motels - The Connections to close the deal
#6-3185 Via Centrale, Kelowna,
British Columbia V1V 2A7
Phone:250.317.0432
Fax: 250.767.3276
Toll-Free: 1.866.765.0579
http://www.premierhotelsandmotels.com/
http://premierhotelsandmotels.blogspot.com/

Hotels and Motels for Sale BC Alberta Canada

SATISFYING THE TOURIST CUSTOMER….!!!!!!!!

This past fall, we were fortunate to vacation in Hawaii, along with sixteen members of my family.

Everything was great except that, when we entered our rooms at the condominium hotel, we immediately noticed that the accommodations were not as advertised.

I spoke to the staff at the desk, and commented that the travel brochure hadn’t reflected the condition of the rooms along with their many shortcomings.

Due to the American economy, there weren’t many guests in the hotel; however, the manager said that there was nothing they could do to accommodate us.

This was a shortcoming on management’s part: it needed to ensure that the cleaning staff completes its assigned duties down to the smallest of details, as that is what makes a hotel room appealing and comfortable.

The accommodations had been prepaid well in advance; this meant that management need not worry about reimbursement. At this point, there wasn’t much that we could do. This lack of service could have put a damper on an otherwise wonderful vacation. So, we decided to just ‘grin and bear it’.

For many reasons, none of us will ever forget this place, notably the unfortunate experience at the hotel. We will definitely not recommend this location to our friends.

It should be a lesson well-learned by all owners that you have to do everything in your power to meet the needs of your hotel guests.

Knowing that you have taken the time to listen and act on your guests’ concerns will go along way in customer satisfaction. This positive attitude will not only promote repeat business, but will attract new business.

I must admit that many accommodation operators do go the extra mile in ensuring that their guests are pleased with the service.

I tip my hat to the many operators who do a great job. You and your staff have to love working with the public. The travelers you meet will not only appreciate the holiday experience, but will also tell their friends and acquaintances about the great accommodations.

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Jerry DombowskyPremier Hotels and Motels - The Connections to close the deal
#6-3185 Via Centrale, Kelowna,
British Columbia V1V 2A7
Phone:250.317.0432
Fax: 250.767.3276
Toll-Free: 1.866.765.0579
http://www.premierhotelsandmotels.com/
http://premierhotelsandmotels.blogspot.com/

Hotels and Motels for Sale BC Alberta Canada

Seven Steps to Bettter Tourism Finacing

I just received a great bit of information from Ron Taylor on Tourism financing that is relevant to our industry.

Jerry Dombowsky

Tourism operators including those in the hotel and motel industry generally experience greater difficulty in accessing capital when compared to other industry sectors. This is especially the case for new ventures but is also true for established operations. Reasons for this include the higher failure rate of tourism businesses compared to other industry groups.

Institutional lending policies themselves are a barrier as lenders limit the number of 'risky' businesses they are willing to allow into the lending pool. When competing for their share of a lending pool that is neither broad nor deep, it is very important that operators do everything they can to improve their chances of being approved for financing.

Operators, who understand the importance of being prepared, know that well-researched and documented business plans as well as a professional presentation to lenders can make all the difference in securing needed capital. Well documented and well presented financial proposals for viable businesses can attract suitable financing even in situations where some lenders have previously said "no" to the application.

The essentials to making a successful pitch for financing should include:

1. A well documented, professional loan application, which should include an extensive marketing plan that identifies where the cash flow is coming from.
2. A well documented, well supported financial plan which should include a cash flow projection through at least one complete operating cycle, in addition to forecast income statements and balance sheets for at least 3-5 years.
3. Identification in simple terms as to how payments to the lender will be made in the event business cash flow does not meet expectations.
4. Full supporting documentation, which may include financial statements, personal net worth statements and other relevant documents.
5. Making a good first impression. First impressions are extremely important, and experienced operators know that they must be well prepared at the very first meeting to present their application.

Businesses that do not adhere to these principles will have difficulty attracting suitable financing even when they are viable.' Operators who do not have the time or the expertise to develop a financing application incorporating the above essentials should consider engaging a qualified consultant. This will greatly improve their chances of seeing the loan approved.

Ron Palmer

Taylor Capital Inc. is a capital placement firm operated by R. N. (Ron) Palmer CIM, AMP an experienced finance professional. Linked to an extensive network of capital providers both in the private and public sectors we are dedicated to providing capital arrangement services for mid-size companies located in British Columbia. We have been providing innovative financial solutions to businesses in virtually all industrial sectors since 1998.