In 2022 it all started with buying my first rental property: Villa Lula in Padonan, Bali.

Once the building was finished (December 2022) the market was exploding, causes villa Lula to generate €3.000 in revenue where we only expected about 60% of that.

Over time i stopped my work as growth hacker (ex-signrequest, ex-mywheels & ex-sprintsandsneakers) and continued to learn more about real-estate development and why i liked it so much.

From Growth Hacking to Real Estate Development: The Story Behind Villa Lula in Bali

In 2022, I took a leap of faith that would completely redefine my professional journey and personal passions. I had spent years working as a growth hacker—contributing to the success of companies like SignRequest, MyWheels, and Sprints & Sneakers—but deep down, I felt an urge to create something more tangible and enduring. That dream materialized into my first rental property: Villa Lula in Padonan, Bali. What started as a simple idea soon transformed into a life-changing endeavor.

The Beginning: Villa Lula

The concept of Villa Lula was born out of my growing fascination with the real-estate industry. I had always been intrigued by the idea of turning vacant land into something beautiful and functional. Bali—with its vibrant culture, picturesque landscapes, and bustling tourism scene—proved to be the perfect setting for my very first project.

I remember the initial days of planning: countless meetings with architects, balancing budgets, and collaborating with local professionals to ensure that Villa Lula would blend seamlessly into its surroundings. The project was both exhilarating and daunting, as I discovered the importance of paying attention to every single detail—from choosing the right materials to ensuring the design would resonate with both local residents and international visitors.

A Remarkable Success: Surpassing Expectations

By December 2022, after months of construction and creative effort, Villa Lula was finally finished. The result was a harmonious blend of contemporary Balinese design and modern amenities. However, even with all the excitement, I never anticipated the immediate impact it would make on the market.

From the moment it became available for rent, the demand was astonishing. Villa Lula started generating a remarkable revenue of €3,000 per month—far surpassing the projected target of roughly 60% of that amount. This overwhelming success confirmed two things for me:

1. Bali’s market was ripe for high-quality, thoughtfully designed properties.
2. I had found a new calling that merged creativity, strategy, and tangible results in a way I had never experienced before.

Shifting Gears: From Growth Hacker to Real Estate Developer

For years, I thrived in the digital world of marketing and growth hacking—crafting strategies that fueled rapid user acquisition and brand expansion. My roles at SignRequest, MyWheels, and Sprints & Sneakers taught me the value of testing hypotheses quickly, gathering real-time data, and pivoting at breakneck speed to stay ahead of the market.

Yet, as Villa Lula thrived, I realized how different—and deeply fulfilling—it felt to create something people could physically experience. The euphoria of seeing guests enjoy the open-air living spaces, the private pool, and the carefully curated interiors was beyond anything I had felt while scaling apps or online platforms.

This inspired me to invest more time in learning the nuances of real estate development: from land acquisition and architectural design to property management and long-term investment strategies. Before long, I found myself dedicating every waking hour to reading, meeting other developers, and envisioning new ways to transform spaces that enhance people’s lives.

Gradually, I made the tough decision to step away from the world of growth hacking to focus on real estate full-time. Where I once helped digital ventures thrive, I now guide real estate ventures toward success—finding that many growth hacking principles still apply, even in the brick-and-mortar realm.

Embracing a Passion: Why Real Estate Resonates with Me

Real estate development resonates with me because it involves both art and science. On one hand, you need robust financial knowledge, market insights, and risk management to ensure a project is viable. On the other hand, you need an eye for design, an appreciation for local culture, and a genuine desire to create spaces people love.

Just as important, real estate is an enduring field. Buildings stand for years—often decades—reminding you of the impact you made. It’s a lasting legacy, allowing you to shape not just a market but also a community’s daily life.

Drawing Inspiration: Designing Spaces That Shape Lives

My journey has been heavily influenced by the design philosophy I showcase at Shape Haus. There, I share the idea that architecture and thoughtful spatial design can genuinely improve people’s day-to-day experiences. Every detail—down to the layout of the living area, the selection of locally sourced materials, and the incorporation of Balinese aesthetics—helps create a cohesive atmosphere that guests find both comforting and inspiring.

I’ve also taken lessons from my LinkedIn network—connecting with other real estate professionals and entrepreneurs who share their success stories, challenges, and innovative ideas. The international aspect of working in Bali has proven crucial; I’ve learned to navigate cultural nuances, legal frameworks, and diverse market preferences. The result is a growing expertise that pairs Western business insights with the beauty and tradition of Balinese culture.

Looking Ahead: Building a Portfolio in Bali and Beyond

The success of Villa Lula is just the beginning. With a strong foothold in Bali—particularly in up-and-coming areas like Padonan—I’m eager to explore further opportunities across the island and even beyond.

I’m now working on new developments that reflect the same meticulous attention to design, sustainability, and local integration that defined Villa Lula. Bali’s market remains dynamic, and I believe the fundamentals that made Villa Lula successful—great design, respect for local culture, and smart financial planning—can be replicated and refined for future projects.

Ultimately, my goal is to continue shaping spaces that inspire and uplift, whether it’s for travelers seeking a slice of paradise or locals looking for well-crafted homes. Real estate is more than just a financial transaction; it’s about building a lifestyle, leaving a positive mark on communities, and unlocking unique possibilities for anyone looking to invest in Bali’s booming market.

Conclusion: A Transformational Journey

Villa Lula marked a significant turning point in my life—one that led me from the fast-paced world of growth hacking to the equally vibrant realm of real estate development. The lessons I learned in my previous roles still come in handy, but the satisfaction of seeing a physical space come to life—and watching it exceed every expectation—has been unparalleled.

I invite you to follow my ongoing journey, through both my website and LinkedIn, where I regularly share insights into the exciting world of Bali real estate, investment opportunities, and the creative process of turning raw land into a thriving sanctuary.

If my story resonates with you—whether you’re an aspiring developer, an investor, or someone who simply loves innovative architecture—remember that sometimes the biggest leaps of faith yield the greatest rewards. Villa Lula is living proof that when passion, strategy, and a supportive community converge, the sky’s the limit.

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