Ray Licardo, a dynamic entrepreneur, has seen his business adapt and evolve in response to changing circumstances, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Initially, Ray ran a successful short-term rental business through rental arbitrage, leveraging leases for properties across California and Austin. However, when the pandemic hit and travel slowed down, many in the hospitality industry found themselves grappling with severe drops in revenue. Instead of succumbing to the challenges, Ray shifted his focus and found an opportunity to lean into his long-standing passion for Interior Design.
As COVID-19 dramatically slowed the short-term rental market, Ray chose to pivot towards his interior design business. He had been staging and designing his rental properties for years, and now, he turned this skill into a full-fledged Interior Design service. He began taking on various projects, working with homeowners to redesign and renovate their spaces. Ray’s niche in interior design became clear: High-End Contemporary Eclectic Design, heavily influenced by the sophisticated yet inviting style of Soho Home.
His expertise in design and deep understanding of hospitality needs set him apart, leading to several key interior design contracts. These projects helped Ray establish a solid reputation in the industry while continuing to support his rental properties with a unique edge. Not only did he help clients transform their spaces, but he also worked tirelessly to ensure that each design met the functional and aesthetic needs of those seeking both business and leisure accommodations.
As the world began to recover, Ray saw another opportunity to further diversify his portfolio: the hotel and hospitality industry. This shift was a natural next step, as his skills in designing short-term rental properties transitioned seamlessly into the broader hospitality space. Ray’s new focus became clear—he was not just a designer but also a savvy investor in the growing market of boutique hotels and eco-resorts.
Ray’s vision for the future includes transforming properties into luxurious spaces that offer a “home away from home” experience for travelers. He is currently evaluating multiple hospitality investment deals, including potential partnerships for boutique motels and hotels, as well as eco-friendly resorts. This shift into hospitality investing reflects his deep understanding of the market and his commitment to creating spaces that not only attract guests but also ensure long-term profitability.
Despite challenges along the way, Ray’s journey shows how adaptability, creativity, and an unwavering focus on quality have been central to his success. By turning a tough situation into an opportunity, Ray has evolved from managing rental properties to crafting unique, high-end experiences in the hospitality space.
As he continues to expand his influence in the hotel and design industries, Ray remains focused on creating beautiful spaces that are both functional and inspiring, while building a legacy of excellence in hospitality investments.