A favourite Gold Coast, accommodation choice is the Wharf Boutique Apartments, nestled between thrilling Surfers Paradise and trendy, stress-free Broadbeach. The resort presents beautifully appointed spacious one and two bedroom, fully self-contained apartments that overlook the glorious Gold Coast beaches, offering facilities that make a dream holiday come true.
Brett and Rem Rasmussen are the resort managers at the Wharf Boutique Apartments and they insist: “This is the perfect place to relax, indulge and enjoy all that a Gold Coast holiday should be”.
In December 14th, 2015, the new business owners Brett and Rem took over the management rights. During the busiest period - XMAS school holidays - talk about liking a challenge!
After 10 years in the child care industry as a lead educator, manager and director of a child care centre Rem wanted to transform their lifestyle. Brett agreed, after 38 years working as a diesel fitter in the mining industry he also fancied a change, and so they made the move from Brisbane to the Gold Coast.
Assisted by Narelle Filmer from Think Management Rights, they found and purchased the Wharf Boutique Apartments. They were immediately attracted to this clean, well maintained, small boutique complex in an idyllic location and so close to a patrolled beach.
According to Brett and Rem the purchasing process was “smooth and seamless”, they used industry professionals: Steve Burton from PCS finance, Pevy Lawyers, JGA Accountants and NAB Business.
“We knew that we had found the jewel of the Gold Coast” said Brett. “However, we also recognised the property’s untapped potential and since taking over we have made many minor but important improvements. We have worked hard to rejuvenate the gardens and we changed the basement lighting to motion sensing LED, also replacing all the balcony and foyer lighting to LED.
“For the first time in 18 years, we had all the external windows cleaned, the exhaust vent system cleaned, and internal vents replaced. We improved the building’s fire warning system and refreshed the décor in the units so that they better reflect the beach location and modern era. Additionally, we enhanced the wifi offering and our guests greatly appreciate that it is now unlimited and much improved.”
This massive change in career and lifestyle must have presented some challenges for the couple but Rem told us: “We have been supported by an aunt and uncle who have been in the industry nearly 35 years, they’ve given us help, advice and encouragement from the start. Their assistance has been incredibly valuable to us because we have no prior hospitality business experience.
“However, I do feel that our past occupations and experiences have helped us accomplish all that we have, so far. Brett’s handy maintenance skills are proving to be a huge asset for all concerned and my business management and people skills have been essential to providing successful front of house service and improved marketing. We are also grateful to have been assisted by Dean our marvellous cleaner, who has worked at the resort for over 10 years.”
RN readers want to know what has been your biggest achievement and learning curve so far? “Dealing with the OTA’s and managing fraudulent transactions. Also achieving what need to be done in terms of maintenance to common property and the improvements made to the unit’s internal presentation.”
As such new resort industry managers, what advice can you give other potential managers? “Use industry experts and do your homework on what you are purchasing. Do not back down from the big OTA’s, if you are correct then let them know it, and don’t be intimidated by threats. Finally, but most importantly treat everyone in your building as a potential client because circumstances change all the time.”
Do you have anything to say about this ever-changing industry? “We would like to see a more even playing field with OTA’s and AIRBNB, regarding commissions. What’s more, current legislation dictates that managers are non-voting members of the committee, we feel that as owners we should definitely have a vote.”
Tell RN readers what motivates you: “When we hear how much our guests have loved their stay, want to return and that we have made a positive difference to their stay. Likewise, when our owners’ and residents tell us that they feel looked after and when an atmosphere of harmony and community spirit exists in the complex.”
Finally, what do you enjoy most? “We enjoy working together as team and getting through our daily obstacles. Of course, we love our new lifestyle and location! Living in Wharf Boutique Apartments in Surfers Paradise has given us the opportunity to enjoy Gold Coast events such as: Bluesfest, Country Music, Seafire, V8 Supercars, just to name a few.”
Since enthusiastic, helpful, and welcoming Brett and Rem took over the management rights at Wharf Boutique Apartments guest reviews have improved across the board. With booking.com, Expedia, Tripadvisor and Google all showing significantly improved reviews and ratings. Furthermore, at Gohotels.com they have achieved a customer review rating of 90 percent and Outstanding Service Award for the year 2017.”
