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September 14, 2022 · Retreats & Hospitality · Quality 6/10

Back on the Big Island to host a retreat for a large family from Texas. This will be the first time I host a group without knowing any of the guests. The patriarch of the family was referred to me by a long time friend and guest from last year. After an initial call with him, we hit it off, so I decided to go for it! Super cool guy. It’s his birthday celebration. I look forward to get to know him and his family. Everyone checks in today so it’s off to the races!

Yesterday, I did an inspection of the Waterfall House before I handed over a check to officially enter escrow. It’s still pretty surreal that Lori and I are adding this amazing property to our real estate portfolio.

The home comes 100% furnished so I was mainly inspecting what we are getting besides the house and beautiful property. As our plans are to rent out the property, I paid a lot more attention to the furniture this time. I was pleasantly surprised by its great condition. We won’t have to do much to it.

Lori and I do not plan to live at this property. Bliss Island and our primary in Destin, Florida will continue to be our homes. We believe that this property will rent very well as it has a long history of doing exactly that. Even some Hollywood production shoots. For instance, last year a season of “Love Island” was filmed at the property over a five month span.

We believe that this property will continue to rent very well. I learned a few interesting new things on my tour yesterday that I would like to share.

First, what looked like a massive lawn on my first two visits is actually a nine hole golf course.

Second, there is a paved path leading to the top of the large waterfall that has a nice swimming area before the lip of the massive drop off. Its 100% covered from the sun and had epic ocean views. A great zen spot for guests.

Third, the property has two helicopter landing pads.

Fourth, the tennis court actually has stadium seating around the court and lights for nighttime playing.

Fifth, there is an elevator in the house with Louis Vuitton leather interior on its walls. That’s a first. I’ve never seen that before anywhere. A lot over-the-top but hey, it’s a thing you notice!

Finally, there is a pond stocked with gigantic koi fish. This one feature connects this property to three of our last four homes over the span of our 15-year marriage. A good omen for sure, as we did well with each of those properties.

We are excited to begin this adventure. Here are a few random photos I took.

Key lesson: Kick the tires on a new property before it becomes part of your portfolio.

Summary: Hosting a Texas family retreat plus an escrow inspection tour of the Waterfall House.