The Hotel Buy Podcast with Guest Brian Leon of Choice Hotels Canada
Mon Dec 22 2025
Brian shares practical guidance for both first-time and experienced hotel buyers navigating today’s market. He emphasizes the importance of aligning with the right brand partner, understanding total cost structures beyond the purchase price, and entering the business with a long-term mindset.
Key takeaways include:
Choose a brand that offers true operational and strategic support—not just a flag
Be realistic about financing, construction, and renovation costs in today’s environment
Focus on fundamentals: location, demand drivers, and asset quality
Build strong, transparent relationships with lenders and brand partners early
For first-time buyers, surround yourself with experienced advisors and operators
Brian reinforces that success in hospitality comes from preparation, partnership, and patience, especially in a shifting economic and development landscape.
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Brian shares practical guidance for both first-time and experienced hotel buyers navigating today’s market. He emphasizes the importance of aligning with the right brand partner, understanding total cost structures beyond the purchase price, and entering the business with a long-term mindset. Key takeaways include: Choose a brand that offers true operational and strategic support—not just a flag Be realistic about financing, construction, and renovation costs in today’s environment Focus on fundamentals: location, demand drivers, and asset quality Build strong, transparent relationships with lenders and brand partners early For first-time buyers, surround yourself with experienced advisors and operators Brian reinforces that success in hospitality comes from preparation, partnership, and patience, especially in a shifting economic and development landscape.