Podcaster, music A&R, and serial entrepreneur Ryan Fletcher visited Tulum for the first time in 2012. He took the trip with his mother, and they quickly realized, this was an undeveloped gem.
After several trips back to the area over the years and seeing how great it was, they made the decision to invest in property there, too.
“When we first visited Tulum, Cancun, and Playa Del Carmen were the hot spots for the area,” Ryan Fletcher told Travel Noire. “We knew that those areas would become saturated and people would eventually move south, so we took our chances.”
Ryan and his mother found out that individual investors could purchase suites or rooms during the development phase of boutique hotels. Essentially an individual is able to check out the intended floor plans, and pick one they are interested in. If you know anything about Tulum, then you know boutique hotels are the “it thing.”
Once the property is built the hotel will manage your room, but you receive money when the room or suite is booked because you own it.
“It’s a great source of residual income. You can buy in and not have to worry about your property, but still make money while away. Although Tulum can be an expensive place at times, you can still find real estate much cheaper than you would in the U.S. Anywhere from like $200,000 – $300,000.”
Ryan and his mom were able to invest before Tulum really became a sought after destination. But, he assures those looking to invest, that it is still a lot of untapped territory and development will continue to happen over the years.
Since the pandemic, Ryan has found himself heading back to the area at least once a month. It was the first place he went just before things shut down in the United States, and he stayed for several months as things picked up back home.
“I love the beach and palm trees, so it was a no brainer to go there,” he said. “It is also a great place to just clear my head.”
Ryan has also found a new way to generate income beyond his investment property in the area. He is one of the co-founders of Yacht Club Company, a Black-owned yacht experience based in Tulum . Additionally, he is launching his own travel concierge service, to show other travelers the ropes of Tulum. From restaurants to try, to booking tours and even accommodations.
“I can also help those looking to find real estate investments here. Even if you don’t have the income on your own, you can get a few friends to go in with you. Not only are you building generational wealth, but you all now have a place to stay if you decided to visit. You’re going to make your investment back, because people will always travel here.”
To get in contact with Ryan, you can find him on Instagram at: @flyry. You can also follow his new business page, @rftourism.