If you’re a villa owner or planning to invest in property in Bali, you’ve probably asked yourself about Villa Management: How do I maintain a high-quality guest experience over the years? Or, What are the technical issues I should watch out for before and after construction?
Hi, I’m Jason, a Business Journalist at Bukit Vista, and today I’m covering an insightful episode from our Bali Business Review, featuring a conversation between Erica and a seasoned hospitality professional with 24 years of experience managing villas in Bali—Pak Budiarta.
In this episode, Pak Budiarta shares his operational wisdom gained from decades of hands-on villa management, including how to maintain property quality, build a reliable team, navigate guest relations, and avoid costly construction mistakes. Whether you’re a new investor or experienced operator, his approach offers valuable lessons on building a sustainable and hospitality-driven business in Bali.
👉 Watch the full interview now on Bali Business Review YouTube for practical advice and real-world examples from the field.
Ongoing Villa Management Starts with Daily Inspection
Budiarta has been in villa management for over 20 years, looking after properties that are now decades old—yet still consistently earn five-star reviews. His secret? Constant attention to detail. He inspects the villa himself whenever guests are not present and relies on trained staff to act as his “eyes” when he’s not around.
“You have to know what to look for,” he said. “Leaks, faulty wiring, loose tiles—they start small. But if you miss them, they turn into costly problems.” He also emphasizes that owners must trust the team and empower them to report issues instead of waiting until damage escalates.
Even when guests are on-site, Budiarta applies his hands-on villa management approach through clear communication. “We explain what’s happening and why. And if something needs urgent repair, we fix it immediately—with their permission.”
Guest Satisfaction Comes from Transparency and Connection
Despite the inevitable problems—like roof leaks during rainy season—Budiarta’s properties rarely receive negative reviews. His approach is built on three principles:
Be transparent about any issues.
Meet the guest personally to explain the situation.
Listen closely to feedback.
“Complaints aren’t a problem,” he said. “They help us improve. If the guest knows more than I do, I listen. Maybe they’re right.”
He believes hospitality is about human connection—not check-in automation. “When I greet guests myself, they feel welcomed. Sometimes it’s a 5-minute chat, sometimes I give them fruit. It’s about being real.”
That personal touch makes a lasting impression—and often turns guest challenges into loyalty.
Well-Trained Staff Are the Owner’s Best Investment
When asked how to build a dependable team, Budiarta was clear: hire for attitude, train for skills. “Some staff only want to finish their task and go home. But the best ones take ownership.”
To get there, he shows his team exactly how things should be done. “I don’t just instruct—I work beside them. That’s how they learn and respect the standard.”
This team-building approach is a core part of his long-term villa management strategy. He also practices two-way communication. “Ask what they need, not just what you want. And if they do well, show appreciation. If they make mistakes, be honest.” The result is loyalty, consistency, and reduced oversight—an essential formula for sustainable villa management.
Also read: BV GO by Bukit Vista
New Investors Must Plan for Bali’s Technical Realities
Budiarta warns new owners and developers: Bali’s construction quality and standards vary widely. Without oversight, common technical issues like leaks, blocked drains, and electrical faults can lead to ongoing maintenance costs.
His advice:
Rainy season reveals hidden flaws like roof and ceiling leaks.
Electrical and plumbing systems need documentation (e.g. MEP drawings).
Take photos during construction to trace pipe and cable placements.
Survey frequently during the build—not just at handover.
“If you don’t know what to look for, find someone who does. Be involved or appoint someone you trust as your eyes,” he said.
This preparation not only protects your investment but also prevents guest disruptions down the line.
Want to learn more about Bali’s rental strategies? Watch the full interview on Bali Business Review YouTube and subscribe for more insights from real property owners.
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