How an Ex-Space Force Engineer Bought a $2.45M Motel With 10% Down | Jordan Malara E67

Most first-time motel buyers don't lose money on the purchase price. They lose it by underestimating CapEx, guessing on underwriting, and assuming they can "market" their way to higher occupancy. That's how people get smoked.In this episode, you'll learn a simple, real-world way to sanity-check a value-add motel deal, including what "light reno" actually costs per key and which levers really move ADR.My guest is Jordan Malara, an ex-Space Force engineer who went from managing short-term rentals to building a 60+ key hotel portfolio in just a few years. He's breaking down his first deal: a 27-key motel he bought for $2.45M with $500K in renovations, using SBA 7(a) and seller financing.What you'll learn:Why "$20K per key" is a better starting point than your optimistic spreadsheet numberThe hidden CapEx that blows budgets: sprinklers, fire systems, laundry equipment, and code compliance workJordan's 60% expense ratio sanity check, and why occupancy lifts are way harder than you thinkHow he structured SBA 7(a) + seller financing in second position (and what made the seller say yes)The upgrades that paid back fastest: amenities, lobby experience, and staff, not bathroomsHow he outsources revenue management and bookkeeping globally without bloating payrollIf you got value from this episode, share it with one friend who wants to buy a hotel. And if you want to talk through a deal, email me at [email protected] JordanJordan Malara is a former U.S. Space Force engineer turned hospitality entrepreneur who transitioned from managing satellite operations to building a high-performing portfolio of boutique hotels. Previously the Director of Operations for Renjoy, where he oversaw 180+ short-term rentals, Jordan co-founded Springs Hospitality to apply engineering-level systems to the revitalization of undervalued assets like the Adventure Inn Durango. He specializes in leveraging creative financing and narrative-driven branding to transform distressed properties into thriving community hubs, teaching investors how to scale from residential units to commercial hospitality with operational discipline.Connect with JordanConnect with Jordan on LinkedIn.Follow Jordan on Instagram or visit their Website.Learn how to use AI to underwrite faster, streamline operations, automate the busy work, and make better decisions. Start your 7-day free trial of the AI for CRE Collective here.Connect with Michael on Instagram or LinkedIn.Email Us at [email protected] the Hotel Investor Playbook InstagramInvest with Malama CapitalSubmit a deal