💌 STAY AHEAD YOUR WAY

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🎙️EPISODE SUMMARY

In this episode of Commercial Connections, I’m joined by Rob Cohen—longtime entrepreneur, business broker, and consultant. With over 25 years of experience launching, scaling, and selling businesses, Rob shares his journey from New York to Eugene and dives into:

⦿ The complexities of the restaurant and brewery industries

⦿ Shifting market dynamics including labor shortages and cannabis competition

⦿ Key insights into business brokering, lease assignments, and property ownership

⦿ How the SBA and financing play critical roles in successful business sales

⦿ What sellers often overlook when preparing their business for the market

Whether you’re a current business owner or a would-be buyer, this episode offers practical advice for navigating the challenges and maximizing the opportunities in business transactions.

📝 EPISODE THEMES

00:00 – The SantaCon Side Hustle

00:29 – Introducing Rob Cohen

01:44 – Rob's Journey from NY to Eugene

03:56 – Restaurant Industry Challenges

04:50 – The Brewery Market Shift

06:31 – Cannabis Impact on Alcohol Industry

07:54 – Labor Shortages in Restaurants

10:47 – Rob’s Secret to Restaurant Success

11:22 – The Business Broker’s World

16:54 – Preparing to Sell a Business

20:28 – Misconceptions & Global Buyers

23:15 – Real Estate’s Role in Business Deals

24:12 – Assigning Leases During Sales

25:16 – Why Owning Property Matters

26:31 – Trends and Opportunities in Business Sales

28:42 – Hot Industries and Market Demand

32:49 – Rise of Ghost Kitchens

36:54 – Top Advice for Sellers

38:26 – Favorite Sales and Lessons Learned

45:28 – Brokerage Growth and Future Plans

48:28 – Wrap-Up and Final Thoughts

🔗 CONNECT WITH ROB COHEN

Website: www.rjcforbusiness.com

Phone: (541) 520-8012

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-c-971506187/

🔗 CONNECT WITH ME

#BusinessBrokerage #CREPodcast #Entrepreneurship #RestaurantIndustry #SmallBusinessSales #BusinessOwnership #LeaseNegotiations #1031Exchange #SBAloans #OregonRealEstate

💌 STAY AHEAD YOUR WAY

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📅 BOOK A CALL

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🎙️EPISODE SUMMARY

In this episode of Commercial Connections, I talk with David Monroe, a multifamily investment consultant, CCIM instructor, and founder of an AI-powered software platform for commercial real estate professionals.

David shares his journey from helicopter mechanic to multifamily strategist and tech innovator. We discuss:

⦿ The evolution of AI in real estate and how it's reshaping prospecting and underwriting

⦿ How tools like CRE Brokerage Pro and Acquisition Pro can streamline your business

⦿ Real-world examples of communication pitfalls (including texting sellers)

⦿ What federal texting regulations mean for your marketing strategy

⦿ The power of AI for smarter deal analysis, email campaigns, and client relationships

Whether you’re tech-curious or actively looking to improve your CRE workflow, this episode is packed with future-ready insights.

📝 EPISODE THEMES

00:00 – The Million Dollar Mistake

00:24 – Introduction to Commercial Connections Investing

01:09 – Meet David Monroe: From Helicopter Mechanic to AI Innovator

03:10 – Strategic Partnering and Building Wealth in Real Estate

04:10 – The AI Revolution in Real Estate

06:40 – Focusing on the 98%: Building Relationships in Multifamily

08:47 – AI Tools for Commercial Brokers

14:53 – The Evolution of AI and Its Impact on Real Estate

17:32 – Acquisition Pro: Features and Benefits

22:48 – Ownership and Content Control

23:12 – Automation Tools and Support

24:08 – Consultation and Success Stories

24:48 – Email Marketing Pitfalls

27:48 – AI and Proprietary Information

31:20 – Text Messaging Regulations

38:50 – Acquisition Pro and Masterclasses

40:33 – Introducing CRE Brokerage Pro

43:54 – Conclusion and Contact Information

🔗 CONNECT WITH DAVID MONROE

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidmonroe45/

Company: goacquisitionpro.com

Youtube: youtube.com/@strategicconsultant

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/brokeragetoconsulting

Email: [email protected]

🔗 CONNECT WITH ME

#AIinCRE #CREBrokers #RealEstateTech #CREMarketing #DealUnderwriting #MultifamilyInvesting #PropTech #CommercialConnections #1031Exchange #CCIM

💌 STAY AHEAD YOUR WAY

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📅 BOOK A CALL

If you’re a family-owned apartment owner in Oregon, you don’t have to navigate your next move alone. From 1031 exchanges to retirement planning, I help owners protect equity and plan for the future. Schedule a strategy call

🎙️EPISODE SUMMARY

In this episode of Commercial Connections, I sit down with Justin Huelshoff, a commercial lending expert with over 25 years of experience, to unpack the realities of financing in today’s market.

We discuss:

⦿ The difference between commercial bankers and brokers—and how that impacts your deal

⦿ What today’s lending environment looks like for multifamily and CRE borrowers

⦿ The truth about SBA loans, 504 vs. 7a, and common stumbling blocks

⦿ Why your financial package matters—and what lenders actually want to see

⦿ The importance of shopping options and asking tough questions as a borrower

Whether you're an active investor or just beginning to explore commercial real estate financing, this episode delivers valuable guidance to navigate 2025’s lending landscape with clarity.

📝 EPISODE THEMES

00:00 – Introduction to the Art of the Deal

00:39 – Meet Justin Huelshoff: Commercial Lending Expert

01:39 – Banker vs. Broker: Key Differences

03:20 – Navigating the Lending Landscape

06:47 – Understanding the Financial Package

10:52 – SBA Loans: Challenges and Changes

18:28 – Advice for Aspiring Investors

25:40 – Conclusion and Final Thoughts

🔗 CONNECT WITH JUSTIN HUELSHOFF 

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justin-huelshoff-57a00453/

Email: [email protected]

Phone: (503) 502 3154

🔗 CONNECT WITH ME

#CREfinance #CapitalStack #SBAloans #DebtStrategy #CommercialLending #CREinvesting #MultifamilyFinance #PassiveIncome #2025Investing #InterestRates2025 #CommercialConnections

💌 STAY AHEAD YOUR WAY

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📅 BOOK A CALL

If you’re a family-owned apartment owner in Oregon, you don’t have to navigate your next move alone. From 1031 exchanges to retirement planning, I help owners protect equity and plan for the future. Schedule a strategy call

🎙️EPISODE SUMMARY

In this episode of Commercial Connections, I sit down with Gary Kelley, risk management consultant and partner at PCF Insurance, to break down the shifting landscape of commercial property insurance.

We explore:

⦿ Why sudden cancellations and new inspection requirements are on the rise

⦿ How weather events and COVID-19 have changed underwriting criteria

⦿ Steps property owners can take to prepare for inspections and avoid non-renewals

⦿ The role of long-term relationships with agents and underwriters in protecting coverage

⦿ The pitfalls of annual insurance shopping and the true cost of water claims

If you’ve experienced rising premiums, surprise inspections, or a canceled policy—this episode gives you proactive strategies to reduce risk and protect your investments.

📝 EPISODE THEMES

00:00 – The Impact of COVID-19 on Real Estate

00:31 – Introduction to the Episode

00:36 – Insurance Cancellations and Coverage Challenges

01:27 – Understanding the Surge in Insurance Claims

10:05 – The Role of Underwriters in Insurance

20:04 – Proactive Measures for Property Owners

22:11 – Handling Insurance Cancellations

25:04 – The Importance of Relationships in Insurance

29:49 – The Underwriting Process

31:33 – The Changing Landscape of Insurance Requirements

33:20 – Impact of Credit Scores on Commercial Insurance

35:08 – The Importance of Long-Term Relationships with Insurance Agents

38:08 – The Pitfalls of Shopping for Insurance Annually

44:02 – When to Report a Claim and When to Pay Out of Pocket

47:26 – The Significance of Water Claims in Underwriting

50:10 – Subprime Insurance and State Fair Plans

52:36 – Final Thoughts and Advice for Property Owners

🔗 CONNECT WITH GARY KELLEY 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/garyjkelley/

Email: [email protected]

Phone: (360) 734 1161

🔗 CONNECT WITH ME

#CommercialInsurance #RiskManagement #CREStrategy #MultifamilyInvesting #PropertyInsurance #Underwriting #InsuranceTips #CommercialConnections

💌 STAY AHEAD YOUR WAY

Want smarter insights, market trends, and strategies delivered straight to your inbox? Join the Commercial Connections Newsletter — a quick, actionable read for brokers, investors, and CRE professionals. 👉 Subscribe now

📅 BOOK A CALL

If you’re a family-owned apartment owner in Oregon, you don’t have to navigate your next move alone. From 1031 exchanges to retirement planning, I help owners protect equity and plan for the future. Schedule a strategy call

🎙️ EPISODE SUMMARY

In this episode of Commercial Connections, I sit down with Logan DeVos, CEO of SMI Fund Management, to explore the journey from rookie broker to managing an $81 million real estate portfolio.

Logan shares:

⦿ His path from early entrepreneurial ventures to high-impact multifamily deals

⦿ The power of value-add acquisitions and repositioning underperforming assets

⦿ Strategic insights on gross rent multipliers, renovation efficiency, and market timing

⦿ Case studies on properties like Vicinity Apartments and Hickory Lake

⦿ Advice for scaling a CRE portfolio while mitigating risk

Whether you're new to investing or planning your next major acquisition, this episode delivers practical wisdom from a high-performing investor.

📝 EPISODE THEMES

00:00 – Introduction to Value-Add Real Estate Investing

00:47 – Meet Logan DeVos: Real Estate Mogul

02:19 – Logan's Early Entrepreneurial Ventures

03:49 – Scaling Up: From Single Family Homes to Multifamily Units

05:03 – Understanding Value-Add Acquisitions

09:01 – Gross Rent Multiplier and Investment Strategies

12:08 – Lessons Learned in Real Estate

14:48 – Repositioning Underperforming Assets

15:13 – Case Study: Vicinity Apartments in Corvallis

24:38 – Challenges and Strategies in Student Housing

33:10 – Cost and Efficiency in Renovations

37:00 – Hickory Lake Property: A Success Story

38:25 – Conclusion and Contact Information

🔗 CONNECT WITH LOGAN DEVOS

Logan DeVos CEO: SMI Fund Management - (541) 990 3795

Email: [email protected]

Website: https://smifundmanagement.com/

🔗 CONNECT WITH ME

#ValueAddInvesting #MultifamilyRealEstate #CREStrategy #CommercialConnections #RealEstateInvesting #PropertyRepositioning #StudentHousing #CREGrowth

💌 STAY AHEAD YOUR WAY

Want smarter insights, market trends, and strategies delivered straight to your inbox? Join the Commercial Connections Newsletter — a quick, actionable read for brokers, investors, and CRE professionals. 👉 Subscribe now

📅 BOOK A CALL

If you’re a family-owned apartment owner in Oregon, you don’t have to navigate your next move alone. From 1031 exchanges to retirement planning, I help owners protect equity and plan for the future. Schedule a strategy call

🎙️EPISODE SUMMARY

In this episode of Commercial Connections: Investing with Confidence, I’m joined by Bo Barron, CCIM (host of the Commercially Speaking podcast), and Michael Hironimus, CCIM, creator of Implementing AI in CRE: A Practical Guide.

We explore how AI is reshaping the commercial real estate landscape—from streamlining deal flow and marketing to supporting new brokers in the field. Bo shares how launching a podcast has boosted his visibility and deal pipeline, while Michael offers practical tips on using AI tools for competitive advantage.

Whether you’re curious about AI, mentoring younger brokers, or growing your own platform, this episode is full of forward-looking insights.

📝 EPISODE THEMES

00:00 – Introduction and Podcast Benefits

00:42 – Meet the Hosts and Guests

02:21 – The Power of Podcasting

06:31 – AI in Commercial Real Estate

09:46 – Leveraging AI Tools

15:12 – AI in Education and Training

26:35 – Future of AI in Real Estate

28:40 – The Future of Junior Brokers in Real Estate

29:03 – AI’s Impact on Commercial Real Estate

29:47 – The Importance of Mentorship in a Tech-Driven Industry

32:24 – Educational Systems and AI Integration

34:32 – Practical AI Applications for Brokers

36:01 – The Art of Prompting AI

43:35 – SEO and AI: The Changing Landscape

50:55 – Commercial Real Estate: Real or Ridiculous?

01:01:58 – Conclusion and Final Thoughts

🔗 CONNECT WITH BO BARRON

Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/4omTZAPlCBYgJrqBuXrdCG?si=1a41ae1a0fb04b13 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/commerciallyspeaking

X: https://x.com/comspeakpod

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobarron/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@commerciallyspeaking

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/commerciallyspeaking/ 

🔗 CONNECT WITH MICHAEL HIRONIMUS

Implementing AI in CRE: https://www.implementingaiincre.com/

PropTech Integrations: https://www.proptechintegrations.com/

🔗 CONNECT WITH ME

#AIinCRE #CommercialRealEstate #TechAndRealEstate #CREMarketing #PodcastingForBrokers #1031Exchange #MultifamilyInvesting #CREInnovation #Mentorship #CCIM #CommercialConnections

💌 STAY AHEAD YOUR WAY

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📅 BOOK A CALL

If you’re a family-owned apartment owner in Oregon, you don’t have to navigate your next move alone. From 1031 exchanges to retirement planning, I help owners protect equity and plan for the future. Schedule a strategy call

🎙️EPISODE SUMMARY

In this episode of Commercial Connections, I sit down with podcast producer Brittny to share some of the worst advice I’ve seen clients receive—and what to do instead.

We dig into:

⦿ Why working with a qualified CPA is essential for 1031 exchanges

⦿ The risks and realities of seller financing

⦿ Creative financing tools like self-directed IRAs

⦿ Ethical red flags in deals and how to address them

⦿ Advice for young investors getting started in commercial real estate

Whether you're buying, selling, or advising others, this episode offers practical strategies for navigating complex deals with confidence and integrity.

📝 EPISODE THEMES

00:00 – Introduction and Host Welcome

01:03 – Worst Advice in Commercial Real Estate

02:19 – Importance of Having a CPA

04:13 – Seller Financing Risks and Considerations

11:58 – Creative Financing Strategies

18:19 – Advice for Young Investors

23:11 – Conclusion and Final Thoughts

🔗 CONNECT WITH ME

#CommercialConnections #SellerFinancing #CreativeFinancing #1031Exchange #RealEstateEthics #CREBroker #InvestmentStrategy #MultifamilyInvesting #PassiveIncome

💌 STAY AHEAD YOUR WAY

Want smarter insights, market trends, and strategies delivered straight to your inbox? Join the Commercial Connections Newsletter — a quick, actionable read for brokers, investors, and CRE professionals. 👉 Subscribe now

📅 BOOK A CALL

If you’re a family-owned apartment owner in Oregon, you don’t have to navigate your next move alone. From 1031 exchanges to retirement planning, I help owners protect equity and plan for the future. Schedule a strategy call

🎙️ EPISODE SUMMARY

In this episode of Commercial Connections: Investing with Confidence, I sit down with Cody Crist, a partner at Trinity Real Estate Investment Services and a leading expert in single-tenant net lease investments.

We explore:

⦿ Why Dollar General stores are a favorite for passive CRE investors

⦿ The structure and appeal of triple net (NNN) lease deals

⦿ Key site selection and development strategies used by Dollar General

⦿ Cap rate trends, REIT activity, and institutional involvement

⦿ Lease term evolution, expansion strategy, and long-term cash flow planning

Whether you're exploring passive income, building your 1031 pipeline, or looking for low-maintenance CRE assets, this episode breaks down how NNN properties like Dollar General can help investors generate stable returns.

📝 EPISODE THEMES

00:00 – Welcome and Guest Introduction

02:05 – Understanding Dollar Stores and Triple Net Leases

05:04 – Lease Structures and Investment Benefits

08:17 – Dollar General’s Development Process

17:36 – Investor Considerations and Strategies

24:29 – Understanding the Unique Market of Dollar General Stores

25:27 – The Importance of Population Density in Store Performance

27:20 – Cap Rates and Market Trends for Dollar General

29:44 – REITs and Institutional Investments in Dollar General

31:22 – Dollar General’s Expansion and Remodeling Strategy

35:31 – Lease Terms and Investment Strategies

5:17 – The Evolution of Dollar General Leases

47:06 – Final Thoughts and Advice for Investors

🔗 CONNECT WITH CODY CRIST

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cody-crist-04478983/

Email: [email protected]

🔗 CONNECT WITH ME

#TripleNet #NNNInvesting #DollarGeneral #PassiveIncome #CommercialRealEstate #1031Exchange #REITs #MailboxMoney #CREBroker #CREPodcast #InvestmentProperty #NetLeaseDeals #CREStrategy #RealEstateInvesting #CapRates #CashFlowInvesting #CommercialConnections

💌 STAY AHEAD YOUR WAY

Want smarter insights, market trends, and strategies delivered straight to your inbox? Join the Commercial Connections Newsletter — a quick, actionable read for brokers, investors, and CRE professionals. 👉 Subscribe now

📅 BOOK A CALL

If you’re a family-owned apartment owner in Oregon, you don’t have to navigate your next move alone. From 1031 exchanges to retirement planning, I help owners protect equity and plan for the future. Schedule a strategy call

🎙️ EPISODE SUMMARY

In this episode of Commercial Connections: Investing with Confidence, I’m joined by podcast director Brittny to unpack the real-world ups and downs of joint ventures in commercial real estate.

We cover:

⦿ How to build trust and create a strong JV business plan

⦿ Lessons from navigating family dynamics in real estate partnerships

⦿ Structuring deals, managing exits, and protecting your equity

⦿ Airbnb regulations, shifting market trends, and smart JV strategy tips

This episode offers both seasoned insight and practical advice for anyone exploring joint ventures as a path to building long-term wealth through CRE.

📝 EPISODE THEMES

00:00 – Introduction to Joint Ventures

01:41 – Personal Experience with Joint Ventures

02:39 – Challenges and Lessons Learned

05:51 – Managing and Exiting Properties

09:39 – Advice for New Investors

18:37 – Airbnb Regulations and Market Trends

21:21 – Final Thoughts and Recommendations

27:09 – Conclusion and Contact Information

🔗 CONNECT WITH ME

#RealEstateInvesting #JointVentures #CommercialRealEstate #WealthStrategy #InvestingTips

💌 STAY AHEAD YOUR WAY

Want smarter insights, market trends, and strategies delivered straight to your inbox? Join the Commercial Connections Newsletter — a quick, actionable read for brokers, investors, and CRE professionals. 👉 Subscribe now

📅 BOOK A CALL

If you’re a family-owned apartment owner in Oregon, you don’t have to navigate your next move alone. From 1031 exchanges to retirement planning, I help owners protect equity and plan for the future. Schedule a strategy call

🎙️ EPISODE SUMMARY

In this episode of Commercial Connections: Investing with Confidence, I’m joined by Isaac Grant, a CCIM and commercial real estate advisor with deep roots in both banking and brokerage.

Isaac shares his journey from working as a teller to becoming a trusted strategist in the Eugene-Springfield market. We discuss:

⦿ Navigating today’s market across multifamily, industrial, and office sectors

⦿ How CCIM training empowers better deal analysis and negotiation

⦿ Creative ideas for how banks and lenders can adapt to high interest rates

⦿ Real-world examples of complex deals, pricing adjustments, and lender solutions

⦿ Predictions on interest rates, value-add challenges, and where new opportunities may emerge

This episode is packed with grounded insights and strategies for CRE professionals and investors alike.

📝 EPISODE THEMES

00:00 – Jaw-Dropping Wealth and Market Stagnation

01:05 – Introduction to the Podcast and Guest

02:57 – Isaac Grant’s Journey from Banker to Broker

05:50 – The Impact of CCIM Designation

15:54 – Navigating Tough Deals in a Challenging Market

21:37 – Negotiating a Price Reduction

22:19 – Current Banking and Lending Landscape

23:54 – Challenges for Value-Add Investors

26:32 – Proposed Solutions for Banks and Investors

7:47 – Future of Interest Rates and Market Predictions

29:16 – Q&A: Real Estate Investing Insights

35:16 – Opportunities in Eugene Springfield Market

39:54 – Industrial Real Estate and Local Economy

40:19 – Conclusion and Contact Information

🔗 CONNECT WITH ISAAC GRANT

Phone: ( 541) 525-6907

Email:  [email protected]

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/isaac-grant-ccim-98955126a/

Isaac Grant’s Podcast Episode with Bo Barron - Commercially Speaking - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EOQi0UDXn1U&t=181s&ab_channel=CommerciallySpeaking

🔗 CONNECT WITH ME

#CommercialRealEstate #RealEstateInvesting #CREDeals #MultifamilyInvesting #InvestmentStrategies #EugeneRealEstate #SpringfieldRealEstate #IndustrialRealEstate #OregonInvesting #RealEstateGrowth