Carlos Pena

Born and raised in Caracas, Venezuela, Carlos Pena has been a Miami resident for the last 15 years. He first arrived to earn a degree in business administration before pursuing his real estate license. As a realtor, he gained an intrinsic familiarity with every neighborhood in the city and witnessed the massive upswing in Miami’s property market. “What makes Miami unique compared to many other cities,” he says “is that it has tourism all year round. The weather is always good and it’s truly cosmopolitan and international. You can walk one city block and hear five different languages. It’s an exhilarating place to live or visit.” It was because of Miami’s tourism that Carlos decided to switch tack within real estate. Instead of selling homes, condos, and apartments he now rents them. As a business manager at MAK, Carlos is responsible for day-to-day operations. He ensures that all their units are immaculate and that Mak’s investor clients meet their financial expectations each quarter. Mak’s ongoing marketing campaign is a crucial factor in achieving this. “Social media is a big driver,” he says. “Instagram especially because people want an accurate visual representation of what they are renting for their vacation. That’s my responsibility. That’s why we always hire professional photographers. Our rooms and suites are stunning and we also have views of the beach and the crystal blue sea just beyond the balconies so that’s a big draw, knowing that is within walking distance.” With a home base at the Fontainebleau Resort, the facilities help to sweeten the deal. “We show everything that’s on offer from the restaurants, the pools the gym, and the spa. We let all our guests know that what they see is what they get. There’s no catch.” Carlos currently presides over 50 units plus units working closely with MAK’s CEO Max Kostyashkin and the company’s investors. “Our ability to expand as a company is based on our success and specifically getting great reviews from happy customers which keeps us fully booked. We’re currently top of Airbnb for Miami Beach which is an indication of how we’re doing.” With plans to grow to more resorts and developments within the Miami area, Carlos believes that the short-term rental formula that has proved so successful at the Fontainebleau could work anywhere. “Guests on vacation don’t want to be worried about anything. They want a stress-free time knowing that someone responsible has got their back and if they need help they can get it,” he says. “That’s why from the moment someone books with us, we are in contact with them, establishing trust and ensuring their stay in our suites goes seamlessly. Our guests have certain expectations based on our reputation,” Carlos adds. “Our goal is to always exceed those expectations.”