Advanced Reserve Study Tools For Timeshare Resorts – An Interview with Gary Porter
By Shep Altshuler, Publisher
Managing reserve studies requires precision, technological adaptability, and the right set of tools to ensure that properties maintain financial stability and structural integrity. In a recent interview with Timesharing Today, Gary Porter, CEO of Facilities Advisors International, shared insights on how the latest tools are improving the reserve study process.
Advanced Measurement Tools
"One of the key differentiators in our approach is that we use measurement tools that no one else is using," Porter explains. "These tools allow us to not only improve the accuracy of our reserve studies but also streamline the overall process."
A primary tool in this effort is Hover, a software solution that uses photographs or plans to generate precise 3D models of buildings. "Hover allows us to capture detailed measurements of a structure's siding, roofing, windows, and more," Porter says. "This is crucial when property managers or contractors need exact measurements for bidding and repair work."
The process is straightforward. A series of photos or building plans are uploaded into Hover's system, which then generates a 3D model complete with precise measurements. "We've used this on hundreds of projects over the last four years," Porter notes. "The 3D rendering ensures accuracy, whether we're estimating roofing costs or planning for exterior repairs."
LIDAR for Interiors
For interior assessments, Facilities Advisors International employs LIDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) technology. "Legacy timeshare resorts often lack building plans or accurate interior layouts," Porter explains. "LIDAR allows us to create precise models of the inside of a unit simply by scanning the space."
Using video capture, LIDAR technology maps out dimensions, corners, and surfaces in real time. "With this, we can measure everything from unit interiors to common spaces like lobbies and restaurants," Porter adds. "Clients see an immediate benefit, as they finally have accurate interior layouts to work from."
LIDAR is a component of Hover, designed specifically for interior mapping. "It integrates seamlessly with our exterior models, providing a full-scale digital blueprint of a property," Porter says.
Cost-Saving Benefits
With rising material and labor costs, precision in reserve studies is more important than ever. "We've found that these tools not only improve accuracy but also provide long-term cost savings," Porter says. "Once we capture the measurements, they are preserved indefinitely, preventing redundant efforts and unnecessary spending."
In the rare instance where a contractor underestimates costs, Facilities Advisors International can rely on their precise data to correct discrepancies. "We gain a significant advantage in negotiations and planning because we already have the verified measurements," Porter explains.
New Tool: Moasure
Another tool in the reserve study arsenal is Moasure, which specializes in highly detailed measurements using advanced sensing technology. "Moasure functions like a smart measuring tape," Porter explains. "It allows us to map out the exact dimensions of fences, water features, and other property elements with remarkable accuracy."
By walking the perimeter of an area with the Moasure device, measurements are recorded in real time. "We can pinpoint the exact location of a feature and overlay that information onto our digital property maps," Porter says. "For example, if a resort has a unique pool layout, Moasure ensures that its volume and dimensions are accurately documented."
Planimeter for Pavement
When it comes to parking lots and paved areas, Facilities Advisors International relies on Planimeter. "This tool is essential for measuring large, irregularly shaped surfaces," Porter explains. "It works on mobile devices like smartphones and tablets, making it easy to use on-site."
By walking the perimeter of a parking lot, Planimeter calculates the total area, providing accurate data for future resurfacing or maintenance planning. "Having this data in advance prevents costly miscalculations when it's time to repave," Porter adds.
Artificial Intelligence Integration
With AI-driven solutions becoming increasingly prevalent, Porter acknowledges their potential but also their limitations. "Hover and Moasure both integrate AI for automated calculations, which speeds up the process and enhances accuracy," he says. "However, we still rely on our own expertise and extensive database to verify results. AI is a tool, but human oversight remains essential."
Facilities Advisors International has experimented with AI-driven enhancements, such as automated object removal in exterior assessments. "While AI could, in theory, remove obstacles like trees from property scans, we prefer to work with unaltered data to ensure accuracy," Porter explains.
Planning Takeaways
- Enhanced Accuracy – Tools like Hover, LIDAR, Moasure, and Planimeter provide highly precise measurements, eliminating guesswork in reserve studies.
- Long-Term Savings – Accurate measurements preserve historical data, preventing redundant efforts and reducing future costs.
- Efficiency Gains – Digital modeling streamlines the reserve study process, cutting down on manual labor and increasing speed.
- Integrated Solutions – Combining exterior and interior measurement tools provides a complete picture of a property’s needs.
- AI as a Supplement – While AI enhances calculations, human expertise remains critical for verification and decision-making.
Porter emphasizes that the future of reserve studies lies in leveraging these advanced tools to maximize efficiency and cost-effectiveness. "By staying at the forefront of technology, we can provide clients with the best possible insights and planning strategies," he concludes.
About Facilities Advisors International
Facilities Advisors International is a leading reserve study and facility management service provider. With extensive expertise in the hospitality industry, the company offers tailored solutions to ensure compliance with statutory requirements and long-term financial sustainability for resorts and property associations.
For information, contact:
Gary Porter, CEO
Facilities Advisors International
Phone: 702-605-2394
Email:
Visit: www.facilitiesadvisors.com