An interview with André Maximilian Heider:
Property Development and Design by APM Mallorca
Mallorca, one of the jewels of the Balearics, is an island where beauty, design, and real estate blend seamlessly. Within this captivating setting, APM Mallorca stands tall as one of the names in luxury property development and high-end refurbishments on the island. APM Mallorca began as a family venture, evolving through the collaboration of two visionary families. At the heart of this journey is André Maximilian Heider, the Managing Partner who has become an essential pillar of the company that takes care of developing, upgrading, and designing high-end properties in Mallorca. In this interview, we delve into the insights, innovations, and inspirations that have reshaped the luxury property landscape in this Mediterranean paradise.
Could you start by telling us about APM and its beginnings as a family business?
APM was founded in 2008 by my father Andreas and his young business partner Malte Frank. Therefore, the company is a 2-family business. As my brother always wanted to become a doctor, it was clear early on that I would possibly join the family business at some point. After my training at Engel & Völkers in Munich and Starnberg, where my enthusiasm for the property market was born, I came to Mallorca for an internship at APM. And here I am! I was able to work my way up for over ten years, working in project management and business development for a long time. Then in 2020 – admittedly a little earlier than expected – my father retired, and I was promoted to management. This was a big dream come true for both me and my parents. And – the future is bright – Malte’s sons, who are my godchildren (9 and 14 years old) are waiting in the wings…
How has the company evolved from being a local family business to an international company with almost 40 employees?
I wouldn’t describe APM as an international company – but I would describe it as an international team. We have grown from two or three employees to a team of almost forty, including over five nationalities. APM as a company has grown with its employees and, of course, with its clients, many of whom have become not only business partners but also friends over the years. This growth has enabled us to develop in parallel with Mallorca – as an attractive property location.
Where does the APM creative vision come from?
I don’t think there is ONE creative vision. Trends in areas such as fashion, architecture, or interior design come and go. It is important to go with the flow and never fall into copy-paste mode, as well as to understand the needs and ideas of the customer to bring their creative vision to life, coupled with our experience.
How did APM start to get more involved in the interior design area?
As the team has grown over the years, new expertise has been added to the company so that we can now cover different areas within the team. In addition to interior design, this also includes marketing, engineering, and now even photovoltaics. We continue to cooperate with other major players in the industry in all areas. Strong partners like Lionsgate Capital are just as important as a strong team.
What are the values behind your slogan: “Architecture Passionately Managed”?
We firmly believe that any work that is done with fun and passion can only be good. Our employees are young and motivated and every one of them is fully committed to the cause. It is precisely this enthusiasm that is transferred to our customers. You could say that this philosophy is perhaps the secret of APM’s success.
In what ways does APM differentiate itself from other luxury development companies?
Everyone has different specializations and strengths that are oriented toward the needs of their target group. APM has always set itself the goal of offering a holistic service. We accompany clients from their first idea of “a holiday home in Mallorca” to the first barbecue party in the new house (to which we are often actually invited). There are too many decisions to take and hurdles to overcome along the way, extensive creative processes, setbacks, changes, and surprises. We have accompanied our customers on this journey for years. So, it is clear to us that it is not a goodbye when the keys are handed over. We also offer a comprehensive after-sales service for subsequent requests, maintenance, and repairs and thus remain in contact with our customers for years to come. This often results in further joint projects and/or friendships for life.
Even though, you are based in Southwest Mallorca, do you have any business expansion plans?
APM has always focused on the Southwest of Mallorca, more precisely on the region between Son Vida and Puerto Andratx – with 2-3 exceptions for special clients. Should we wish to extend the radius at some point, there is still enough room on Mallorca for the time being.
How do you feel about Mallorca’s housing demand?
Mallorca has its own special magic and its dynamic. The coronavirus crisis has shown that our island is a “safe haven” for many and will certainly remain so for many years to come. The demand in the property market is dynamic, and you have to react flexibly to current developments. The advantage of APM Mallorca is that we have a broad portfolio – albeit in our segment: from Mediterranean to modern, from core refurbishment to new builds, from detached villas to large properties with their own guest house. This portfolio allows us to respond very sensitively to current demand trends.
What is your favorite Sunday plan in Mallorca?
I like to have a cozy breakfast with the family, followed by a round of golf. In the afternoon, I have a late lunch with friends in a relaxed atmosphere at Maria5 Beach in Camp de Mar while I have my feet in the sand and a view of the sea.
Interview by Juanita Casanas
Co-founder and President of Lionsgate Capital
Juanita’s goal at Lionsgate Capital is to create unparalleled solutions for the most demanding clients and create value through service, making Lionsgate Capital the major player for financing in the Balearic Islands and mainland Spain.
