In a conversation with Scott Hall, Senior Managing Director of Acquisitions and Capital Markets at Timbers Company, we delved into his team’s strategic approach to uncovering and assessing promising opportunities for expanding Timbers’ portfolio of luxury assets.
Q: Scott, can you tell us about your role?
A: As leader of the acquisitions and business development teams at Timbers, I spearhead the hunt for properties that will enhance our unique portfolio of luxury real estate, both experientially for guests and Owners and financially for Owners and investors. This involves identifying compelling sites for new developments, such as with Timbers Kaua‘i, One Steamboat Place, or Timbers Kiawah, and repositioning existing properties in prime locations such as Casali di Casole, Timbers Jupiter, or The Sebastian – Vail.
Q: What criteria do you use to identify a prospect?
A: Timbers has always been committed to exceptional properties in timeless markets. We seek out projects that are financially promising and provide a uniquely authentic experience that reflects the local culture and personality of the region. By maintaining a commitment to friendly, approachable luxury and authenticity of the area, we can create a fully immersive, welcoming environment that invites loved ones to create special moments together year after year. This is core to the Timbers brand and remains at the heart of what makes our projects successful.
Q: Where do you typically search for these properties?
A: We seek A-plus locations in A-plus markets for Timbers expansion. Presently, we are pursuing projects in Coastal Florida, Montana, Costa Rica, and the Caribbean. While beach and mountain locations have historically experienced the highest value appreciation and remain our primary focus, we have begun to pursue urban locations in world-renowned cities with unique cultural amenities.
Q: How do you partner with investment firms to fund these projects?
A: We are currently expanding our network of capital partners to increase our agility and flexibility to control compelling opportunities. These partners include family offices, ultra-high-net-worth individuals, and landowners interested in joint ventures. Collaborating with sophisticated, like-minded capital partners allows us to move quickly and elevate the Timbers standard of excellence. This quick, disciplined execution ultimately empowers the project to be financially successful, increasing long-term returns for Owners and investors alike.
Q: What is your team’s goal for the future of Timbers acquisitions?
A: We strive to diversify Timbers’ portfolio with a dynamic urban location in a global gateway city, as well as bolster our existing collection of resorts, hotels, and private residence clubs. The forthcoming Timbers Resorts property on Captiva Island in southwest Florida is set to join our portfolio and the Timbers Reciprocity Network in the future.
Q: Is Timbers seeking opportunities to expand the Timbers Reciprocity Program beyond new construction projects?
A: Through the years, we have been approached by standalone properties interested in joining the Timbers Collection. If we see an opportunity to expand and complement our collection of properties while maintaining the high standards and exclusivity signature of the Timbers brand, we will explore those opportunities.