Episode 9

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Published on:

21st Sep 2025

Numbers That Tell the Truth: Hotel Financial Planning with Paden Squires | The Room Key

Every hotel owner knows the business is cash-hungry — payroll, PIPs, taxes, debt service. But too often, the financial side is neglected until it’s too late. In this episode of The Room Key, I sit down with Paden Squires, CPA and CFP®, to talk about the financial playbook every hotel owner should be running.

We dive into:

  • Why clean, consistent financials are the foundation of every good business decision
  • The most common mistakes hotel owners make with their books
  • Separating personal wealth planning from hotel operations
  • How to approach debt and leverage without becoming a forced seller
  • Entity structures and tax planning every owner should know
  • Cost segregation and the return of 100% bonus depreciation — how aggressive is too aggressive?
  • Preparing for the “dirty surprise” of depreciation recapture at sale

Whether you own one property or a portfolio, this conversation will help you see your numbers as more than compliance — they’re the key to growing wealth, protecting your business, and making smarter long-term moves.

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About the Podcast

The Room Key
Where Hotel Owners, Investors & Insiders Talk Shop with Chase Keller
The Room Key is where hotel owners, investors, lenders, brokers, and hospitality professionals come to talk shop. Hosted by Chase Keller, CCIM, a national hotel broker with Franchise Clearly. Each episode dives into the real stories, challenges, and insights that drive the hotel industry. Whether you're a first-time owner, a seasoned investor, or someone who just loves the business of hospitality, The Room Key offers candid interviews, market trends, and practical takeaways you won’t find anywhere else. Unlock behind-the-scenes conversations with the people who power the places we stay.

About your host

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Chase Keller, CCIM

Chase Keller is a dedicated hotel advisor and the Head of the Hospitality Division at Franchise Clearly, a brokerage redefining how hotel transactions are done. With over 16 years of real estate experience and CCIM training, Chase specializes exclusively in helping hotel owners and investors buy and sell hospitality properties across the U.S. His deep knowledge of franchise brands and independent hotels allows him to provide data-driven insights and strategies that maximize value for his clients.

At Franchise Clearly, Chase leads a team-based approach that sets the firm apart from traditional brokerages. Instead of relying on one person to handle every aspect of a transaction, Franchise Clearly brings together a team of specialists—each operating in their area of strength—creating a seamless process and delivering superior results for clients.

Known for his client-first mindset and meticulous attention to detail, Chase ensures that every deal is handled with precision, professionalism, and care.
Contact Chase today to explore your hotel investment opportunities with Franchise Clearly.