Working with an extensive network of contacts built over 30 years, the Business Development team constantly scans the hotel landscape seeking hotel properties that will gain value from strong management, capital investment and possible repositioning. These professionals work side by side with owners, lenders, and asset managers to develop strategic operational, capital and exit strategies designed to optimize financial returns and create long-term value enhancement. The team also maintains strong relationships with major institutional investors and key lending institutions to source both debt and equity in all phases of the real estate cycle. The Business Development team is highly skilled in negotiating brand affiliation agreements and has earned the respect of virtually all the leading hotel brands. In fact, the Company has been among the first independent management companies to be named preferred/approved operators by Hilton, Marriott, Starwood, Hyatt and Intercontinental Hotels Group.