Advice from someone who knows property inside out
After more than 30 years in the luxury segment on the Belgian coast, I regularly hear the same question: “Jan, what would you do?” That is why I offer independent advice alongside my work as an estate agent, with figures, local knowledge and an honest answer.
For me, advice is different from an instruction to sell. I say what I think, even when that means you are better off not buying, not building or not selling.
How can I help you?
For developers
A project is won or lost in its preparation. I work through it with you before the first stone is laid. The profit is in the purchase!
- Pricing
what is each unit realistically worth, and how do you spread the prices across the project?
- Layout
which property types, floor areas and layouts work best for your project?
- Reality check
do the feasibility, construction cost and expected selling price match today's market?
- Specifications and finishes
where is quality worth paying for, and where is it wasted?
- Target audience and positioning
who are you building for, and how do you stand out from what is already there?
- Phasing and sales strategy
in what order do you build and sell, and when do you start selling off-plan?
For investors
For those who remodel, renovate or develop smaller new-build projects to sell or let.
- Assessing the purchase
evaluating a potential purchase and its location.
- Cost-benefit analysis
purchase price, renovation cost, income and return on paper.
- Purchase options
through a company or privately, with usufruct or bare ownership, and what that means.
- Selling price or rent
advice on the right asking price or rent.
- Renovation budget
what is realistic, and what are the risks?
- Letting or selling
which exit strategy suits this property and this market?
- The right network
referral to a notary, tax adviser, architect, skilled tradespeople or contractor when needed.
Buying guidance
You are welcome to buy the property through another estate agent. I support you as an independent adviser.
- Objective advice
is this property worth its price, and does it fit what you are looking for?
- Purchase options
through a company or privately, with usufruct or bare ownership.
- Viewing together
I look at what you might not see yourself, such as the condition, location, surroundings and co-ownership. The advantages and disadvantages are clearly set out.
- Checking the documents
pre-purchase information, sale agreement, certificates and conditions.
- Offer and negotiation
preparation, even if you negotiate yourself.
For estate agents
Every estate agent knows their own area best. Are you an agent based inland with a client interested in a property in Knokke-Heist? I am happy to think it through with you.
- Value and price
advice for a coastal property.
- Local market
what sells, to whom, and how long does it take?
- Presentation and marketing
how to present the property to the coastal market.
- Working together
referrals to the right estate agents if you would like to collaborate.
For hotels
The hotel world has fascinated me for years, and I immediately notice what makes a stay special and what does not quite work. I offer that guest's perspective to hoteliers, operators and developers.
- A fresh look
what does the guest notice in an existing hotel, both positively and negatively?
- The entire stay
from arrival to departure: welcome, room, breakfast, service and farewell.
- Streamlining
where do operations get stuck, and where do you lose time, comfort or guests?
- Details that stay
ideas and tips for what guests remember and what brings them back.
- Hotel projects
thinking through the concept, rooms, layout and shared spaces.
Starting an Airbnb or holiday rental
For holiday rentals, I refer you to HostHarmony, specialists in short-term letting. They help you with:
Contact HostHarmony- Returns
is this property suitable for holiday rentals, and what can it realistically earn?
- Legislation
what does the law require, and which permits do you need?
- Furnishing
the furnishings and equipment that make a difference.
- Photos and copy
professional photos and a strong listing description.
- Pricing strategy
prices for high and low season and the calendar on your rental platform.
- Guests
communication, check-in and cleaning.
- Conditions
cancellation policy and rental conditions.
- Reviews
earning good reviews and becoming a superhost.
- Your own website
direct bookings alongside Airbnb and VRBO.
- Tax and insurance
what should you look out for?
- Management
do it yourself or outsource it, and what does it cost?
How does it work?
You send me your question by email, or call or WhatsApp me.
We arrange a short introduction. This helps me see whether I can help you and what you need.
You receive a clear proposal setting out the scope, timeframe and price.
I then work through your question and give you clear advice, verbally or in writing.
Everything you tell me stays confidential.
Who else is at the table?
- Private sellersA second opinion on your price or sales strategy, even if you already have an estate agent.
- Foreign buyersSomeone to guide you through the coastal market.
- FamiliesA valuation for an inheritance, gift or division of assets.
- LandownersKnowing what is feasible on your land.
- Second-home ownersAdvice on letting, selling or keeping your property.
A question for Jan?
Get in touch for more information and prices. Indicative rate: €180 per hour excluding VAT (€217.80 including 21% VAT).