Established
2014
Franchise Units
11
Minimum Investment
$19,860,000
Franchise Fee
$75,000
Total Investment Range
$28,525,000
Home Based
No
Description
WaterWalk: Reimagining the Future of Upscale Extended Stay
In an era where the lines between travel, work, and home have permanently blurred, WaterWalk Extended Stay by Wyndham stands as a pioneer of the hybrid lodging revolution. This isn't just a hotel, and it’s more than an apartment complex—it is a sophisticated fusion of both. Founded on the principle that long-term guests deserve more than a cramped suite, WaterWalk offers a unique LIVE | STAY model that has disrupted the $100+ billion hospitality industry.
Under the prestigious Wyndham Hotels & Resorts umbrella, WaterWalk provides investors with a high-yield opportunity in the upscale extended-stay segment. By catering to both corporate guests who want the service of a hotel and residential tenants who want an unfurnished home with upscale amenities, franchisees benefit from dual revenue streams and market-leading resilience. Whether the economy is booming or tightening, the fundamental need for flexible housing makes WaterWalk one of the most stable real estate investments in the USA today.
Why Invest in a WaterWalk Franchise?
Investing in WaterWalk is a move toward future-proofing your portfolio. Here is why savvy developers are choosing this brand:
The Wyndham Advantage: As part of the world’s largest hotel franchisor, you gain instant access to a massive global distribution network, professional marketing, and the Wyndham Rewards program, which boasts over 100 million members.
Dual-Demand Model: While traditional hotels often suffer during occupancy dips, WaterWalk’s unfurnished units provide stable, apartment-style monthly income, while furnished units capture high-margin hospitality demand.
Operational Efficiency: The Gen 2.0 prototype is designed for low labor costs. Unlike full-service hotels, WaterWalk requires a lean staff, maximizing your bottom line.
Asset Versatility: The hybrid model allows you to pivot your inventory based on local market trends. If corporate travel is high, you can increase furnished units; if the local housing market is tight, you can lean into residential leases.
Background
Established Year: 2014
Founder: The late Jack DeBoer (The legendary pioneer of Residence Inn, Candlewood Suites, and Summerfield Suites).
Current Leadership: Led by CEO Mimi Oliver, granddaughter of Jack DeBoer.
Ownership: Part of the Wyndham Hotels & Resorts ecosystem.
Active Units: Currently operating 11+ flagship locations in key U.S. markets including Phoenix, Wichita, Charlotte, and Jacksonville, with a rapidly expanding pipeline.
Industry Category: Upscale Extended Stay / Hybrid Multifamily.
WaterWalk was the final masterpiece of Jack DeBoer, who spent five decades perfecting the extended-stay concept. In 2024, Wyndham recognized the brand’s massive potential and integrated it as their 25th brand, bringing institutional power to a boutique, innovative concept.
Support Training
Wyndham’s OwnerFirst philosophy ensures you are never alone in this journey. The support structure includes:
Pre-Launch & Development: Expert guidance on site selection (typically 2.5–3.5 acres), architectural design for the Gen 2.0 prototype, and construction management.
Comprehensive Training: A rigorous training program at corporate headquarters for owners and general managers, plus digital modules for staff through Wyndham University.
Operational Systems: Access to next-gen Property Management Systems (PMS), revenue management tools, and automated check-in technology.
Marketing & Sales: A dedicated national sales team focuses on capturing high-value corporate contracts and Fortune 500 relocations, supplemented by global digital marketing campaigns.
Ideal Candidate
WaterWalk is looking for sophisticated partners rather than just operators. The ideal profile includes:
The Real Estate Developer: Investors with experience in multi-family housing or commercial real estate who want to diversify into high-yield hospitality.
The Multi-Unit Operator: Current hotel owners looking to add an upscale, recession-resistant brand to their portfolio.
Financial Capability: Candidates should have significant liquid assets and the ability to secure financing for a project of this scale.
Location Preference: Prime interest in Tier 1 and Tier 2 markets near corporate hubs, Class A office spaces, and medical districts.
Financial Detail
| Financial Metric | Details |
| Total Initial Investment | $19,860,000 – $28,525,000 |
| Minimum Cash/Liquid Required | ~$4,330,000 |
| Initial Franchise Fee | $75,000 |
| Royalty Fee | ~5% of Gross Room Revenue |
| Marketing/Brand Fund | ~2.5% of Gross Room Revenue |
| Working Capital | $150,000 – $250,000 |
| Expected Break-Even | Typically 24–36 months (varies by market) |
