In this episode, we dive into an uncommon but powerful financing strategy that could change how boutique hospitality projects get funded. Ian Joseph, founder of Branch, shares how he’s leveraging a USDA Rural Business Development loan to finance a $6M micro resort buildout in West Virginia - with just 3% down.

We break down the entire capital stack, how USDA loans work for ground-up hospitality development, and why this financing tool is often overlooked by small to mid-size investors. Ian also shares his approach to designing high-ADR resort cabins, partnering with local economies, and building a scalable brand without taking on unnecessary overhead.

What You’ll Learn:

• Why USDA Rural Business Development loans are a hidden gem for hospitality developers
• How Ian structured a potential 97% LTV loan for his $6M project
• His step-by-step process for identifying profitable “hidden gem” towns
• How to market a boutique resort before it’s even built (and pre-sell stays)
• The economics behind luxury micro resorts vs. short-term rentals
• How to scale hospitality assets while staying community-focused

Whether you’re an aspiring boutique hotel investor or looking for creative ways to finance your next project, this episode is a masterclass in using leverage the smart way.

Connect with Ian:

Email: [email protected]

Website: https://staywithbranch.com

Instagram: @staywithbranch

Facebook: Staywithbranch

Connect with Michael:

Invest with Malama Capital: malama-capital.com/invest
Submit a deal: https://www.malama-capital.com/deal-submission
Instagram: @the_hotel_investor_playbook
Contact Us: [email protected]