Michele's renowned career in commercial real estate includes over $65 billion of transaction experience, including iconic deals such as the Waldorf Astoria New York. She has advised on several trophy hotel and resort acquisitions across the United States, enhancing her standing as a leading expert in the luxury real estate market. Michele’s transaction experience is a reflection not only of her expertise, but also of her commitment to representing every client with a passion for service excellence.

Waldorf-Astoria New York

New York, N.Y.

Sold for $1,950,000,000

The landmark Waldorf-Astoria New York transaction set records as the most expensive purchase ever of a U.S. hotel and at the time, the largest acquisition of a U.S. real estate asset by a Chinese buyer. As part of the transaction, the buyer, China's Anbang Insurance Group, committed to a substantial renovation to restore the art deco landmark to its historic grandeur. Additionally, Anbang agreed to a remarkable 100-year management contract with Hilton Worldwide.

Since first opening its doors on Park Avenue in 1931, the legendary Waldorf-Astoria Hotel has held a central role in the narrative of New York City. It has served as the backdrop for countless social gatherings, hosted esteemed dignitaries, and epitomized opulence, refined hospitality, and innovation. This transaction not only cemented the hotel's legacy but also symbolized a convergence of global investment and a commitment to preserving architectural treasures.

Strategic Hotels & Resorts Portfolio

National

$3,000,000,000 Financing

Financing on behalf of Blackstone for their takeover of Strategic Hotels & Resorts, in a deal valued at approximately $6 billion. The portfolio encompassed a collection of 17 iconic hotels strategically throughout the United States including prestigious properties such as the Four Seasons Washington, D.C, Montage Laguna Beach in Laguna Beach, CA, Hotel Del Coronado in Coronado, CA, Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel in Dana Point, CA, Four Seasons Scottsdale Troon North in Scottsdale, AZ, Four Seasons Resort & Residences Jackson Hole in Teton Village, WY, Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay in Half Moon Bay, CA and the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess, Scottsdale AZ.

Ritz-Carlton & JW Marriott Grande Lakes Orlando & JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort

Orlando, FL & Phoenix, AZ

Sold for $1,245,000,000

Sale of a three-property portfolio for $1.245 billion to the Blackstone Group from Paulson & Co., Winthrop Realty Trust and Blackstone Mortgage Trust. The portfolio includes the 998-room JW Marriott Grande Lakes in Orlando, the 584-room Ritz-Carlton Grande Lakes in Orlando and the 950-room JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort & Spa in Phoenix. Each of these properties is renowned for its luxury amenities, impeccable service and prime locations.

W Hotel Union Square New York

New York, NY

Sold for $171,000,000

Sale of the landmark W Hotel Union Square New York on behalf of Host Hotels & Resorts, Inc. to Westbrook Partners for $171 million. Situated at 201 Park Avenue South in New York City, this Beaux-Arts hotel, originally constructed in 1911, underwent a significant transformation into a W Hotel in 2000.

Additional Transactions

The London NYC
New York, NY

$382,000,000

Park Hyatt
Washington, DC

$100,000,000

Mandarin Oriental
New York, NY

$170,000,000