Colorado-based Timbers Resorts, a successful independent developer and operator of private boutique resorts and residence clubs, has just announced the addition of the former Ritz-Carlton Club - Bachelor Gulch to their portfolio. This property will be the thirteenth property managed by Timbers Resorts.
According to Michael Mullenix, President of the RCC-BG Condominium Association, "As our Club has been fully sold out and Member controlled for years, the end of the existing management contract was a perfect opportunity to reaffirm our unique Club strictly as a Private Residence Club. After an extensive and exhaustive RFP process, followed by an overwhelming favorable vote for the change by our Members, we felt hands down that Timbers Resorts was the right fit for our Owners moving forward to return our club to its original vision”.
Of 648 membership interests, 76% of the members cast a vote. The move was favored by 89% of the members who did vote. Some of the factors that members would have considered in their management company assessment are internal trading options, external exchange program, valuations, property locations, and reservation process.
A few of the positive aspects that probably swayed the vote in Timbers favor include:
- The online bulletin board for internal and external trades offered by Timbers
- 12 luxury residence clubs for Timbers versus an original 10 for Ritz-Carlton Clubs (7 remaining)
- Higher guest satisfaction scores for Timbers
- The Timbers preferred partnership with travel and lifestyle brands
The former Ritz-Carlton Club - Bachelor Gulch will be managed by Timbers Resorts effective 11/1/2013. Timbers has plans for an extensive remodeling of the property in 2014, which is contingent on apporval from the owners. The completely sold out property boasts fifty-four two and three-bedroom residences with panoramic views, hand-crafted furniture, and log balconies. Ski and mountain adventure services at the mountain will continue to be provided by Venture Sports. Current owners of Bachelor Gulch will be offered membership in the Timbers Collection as well as the reciprocity program.
Some of the other Timbers properties are located in Aspen, Vail, Cabo san Lucas, Napa, Sonoma and Tuscany.
We've seen 1/12 ownership shares at this club being offered on the local MLS for as low as $50,000 this year. It will be interesting to watch and see if the new Timbers management brings about an increase in the market pricing for these shares.