Development Projects
At Wimberly Funding, our investors and lenders have extensive experience in project development and finance, with active involvement in the U.S., Canada, Mexico, and international markets where stable and viable governments exist.
To streamline the process and assess project readiness, we outline the four main stages of development: Preliminary, Planning, Financing, and Execution.
1. Preliminary Stage
Before investors, financiers, or brands show genuine interest, the following must be in place:
Finalized Land Documents – Title, lease, environmental study, access & egress, and ownership control. Market Study & Financial Projections – Credible analysis from a recognized consultant, including size, positioning, rates, demand, competition, and estimated market share. Architectural Plans & Preliminary Design – Room and bathroom modules, base designs. Experienced Team – Proven track record of developer, builder, architect, interior designer, engineers, and specialists. Board of Directors – Background checks required. Construction Permits – Location-specific approvals. Management Contract – Commitment from a recognized brand management company. Investment Strategy – Equity of 25%–50% required; land value alone is insufficient. Debt (50%–60%) – Details of construction loans are critical. Development Budget – Must include design, construction, FF&E, financing, pre-opening, and development expenses. Financial Strength – Sponsors/Principals must have net worth equal to or greater than the loan request, or at least 10% liquidity.
2. Planning Stage
A 4–6 month process to prepare a property from raw land to an investment-ready, branded resort. Key steps include:
Resort Development Planning – Bringing raw land to an investment-ready plan. Development Company – Establishing a credible organizational team. Architectural Programming – Calculating space needs and costs. Brand Analysis & Selection – Reviewing market positioning, brands, operator needs, shortlisting, and contract negotiations. Development Financial Model – Integrating costs, returns, phasing, and performance. Feasibility & Valuations – Independent consultant study with financial feasibility and valuations.
3. Financing Stage
A 3–4 month process through an associated investment bank under exclusivity.
Due Diligence – Verification of planning-phase data. CIM Refinement & Teaser – Confidential project summaries for potential lenders. Source Identification – Best capital sources identified. Term Sheets & Offers – Collection and analysis of offers. Selection – Developer, with advisors, selects best term sheet. Negotiations – Final terms settled with chosen lender/investor. Underwriting – Independent third-party review of all reports, financials, experience, and project risk. Underwriters determine investor exposure. If unsuccessful, restructuring or co-developer partnerships may be required. Legals & Closure – Documentation and transaction closure.
4. Execution Stage
Approx. 24 months (varies) of construction and real estate sales.
Mobilize Team – Finalize and coordinate team schedules. Finalize Designs – Architecture, interiors, kitchen/laundry planning. Finalize Budgets & Business Plan – Cost consulting and value engineering. Construction – Execution of build plan. Finish & Fit Out – Quality control, logistics, security. Pre-Opening – Staff orientation, training, marketing, communications. Opening – Launch of operations.
Requirements for All Loan Requests
Executive Summary
Investment-Grade Business Plan
Expense Deposit