Commercial Property Investor Podcast

In this episode, Jerry interviews Richie, a former Army officer who transitioned into the world of property investment and has achieved financial independence. Richie shares his journey, the challenges he faced, and the strategies he used to build a profitable property business, including a niche offer in Self Storage. They discuss the importance of balancing family life with business, the value of taking action, and Richie's approach to creating passive income streams. This episode is packed with valuable insights for aspiring and experienced investors looking to make impactful moves in commercial property.

Key Topics Covered

1. Balancing Family and Work:

• Richie discusses how his initial years in property investment required sacrifices, often working evenings and weekends alongside his Army job.
• Now, with the flexibility his business provides, Richie enjoys more time with his family, including helping with homeschooling his young children.
• He emphasizes the importance of achieving time freedom, allowing him to prioritize family life without being tied down by a traditional 9-to-5 job.

2. Working Smart, Not Long:

• Richie has structured his businesses to allow him to work only 20-25 hours a week, focusing on strategic growth and minimizing time spent on daily operations.
• He highlights the goal of reducing his operational hours even further, enabling him to concentrate on new opportunities, development, and raising funds for future projects.

3. Richie's Top Three Tips for Investors:

• Take Action: Richie stresses the importance of taking practical steps rather than just accumulating knowledge. Action drives results, while knowledge without action remains unused.
• Go Where the Air is Thinner: Instead of competing in over saturated markets like small residential properties, Richie advocates exploring commercial property and self-storage, where there’s less competition and more substantial returns.
• Leverage Finances Wisely: Richie explains how he purchased £3 million in property using none of his own money by leveraging other people's time, knowledge, and finances, demonstrating the power of partnerships and creative financing.

4. Mentorship and Giving Back:

• Richie has recently formalized a mentorship program, “Elevate Property Mentoring,” aimed at helping others progress in property investment and execute larger deals.
• He shares his passion for guiding others to success, with plans for an open day on November 21st to introduce potential mentees to his Sheffield property project.

5. Embracing New Opportunities and Self-Storage Investments:

• Jerry and Richie discuss the self-storage niche as an emerging, high-potential market within property investment.
• Richie talks about his own journey of exploring different property sectors, learning the business model, systemizing operations, and then moving on to new ventures, emphasizing the importance of organized growth.

6. Looking to the Future:

• Though Richie has reached his financial target, he is motivated to continue growing his investments, balancing his time between new ventures and family.
• The conversation ends with an optimistic look at the future, with Jerry and Richie speculating about where Richie's businesses and life goals will lead him in the next few years.

Key Takeaways

• Prioritize Action Over Knowledge: Knowledge without action is useless. Take consistent steps every day if you want to create meaningful change.
• Move into Less Crowded Markets: Seek opportunities in less saturated areas, like commercial and self-storage properties, for better returns.
• Utilize Other People's Resources: Leveraging other people's time, money, and expertise can exponentially grow your business without depending solely on your own resources.
• Systematize for Freedom: Building efficient systems allows you to scale your business without losing personal freedom and flexibility.
• Family Time Matters: Financial freedom isn't just about money; it’s about creating time and flexibility to spend with loved ones.

Resources Mentioned

• Elevate Property Mentoring: Richie's mentorship program focused on guiding property investors through their first big deals. Website (coming soon): Elevate Property Mentoring.
• Open Day Event: Richie's open day on November 21st in Sheffield, showcasing one of his projects and offering insights into his mentorship program.

Richie's details:

Email: [email protected]

Storage website: www.citysafestorage.com

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richie-miller/

FB: https://www.facebook.com/ricardo.monty.5

JOIN THE NETWORK If you want to learn more about investing in Commercial Property, why not consider joining the CPI Network? We're a community of active investors who collaborate, share experiences, and empower each other in our Commercial Property endeavours.

Useful Links:

CPI Website - https://commercialpropertyinvestor.co.uk/

Our Sponsors - https://commercialpropertyinvestor.co.uk/podcast-sponsors/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jerryalexander/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jerryalexander.commercial/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, we dive into a crucial topic for commercial property investors: recession-proofing your portfolio. With an economic downturn always on the horizon, it’s essential to be prepared. Jerry shares practical strategies and mindset shifts that can help investors navigate and even thrive during challenging economic periods. From past recessions to the COVID era, we explore key lessons learned, plus insights into which property types and portfolio strategies offer resilience.

Key Takeaways:

Understanding the Cyclical Nature of Commercial Property:

• The commercial property market can experience sharp downturns, with significant price drops when demand weakens and financing becomes harder to secure.
• Unlike residential markets, commercial properties can see larger fluctuations, making preparedness essential for stability.

Lessons from Past Downturns:

• Jerry recalls past recessions, the Celtic Tiger crash, and the 2008 financial crisis, noting the value of flexibility and low debt leverage for surviving downturns.
• Building on examples from other investors, he shares why cash flow, conservative LTVs, and adaptable business models can be vital for resilience.

Property Types & Investment Approaches to Consider:

• Certain sectors, like industrial properties and essential retail (think grocery and pharmacy), tend to hold up better in economic slumps.
• Jerry discusses how multi-let properties and flexible leases can provide more stability than single-tenant properties, which are more vulnerable during downturns.

Diversifying and Choosing Resilient Property Types:

• Investing in multi-let properties or second-hand buildings can offer advantages over high-cost, single-use properties.
• Resilient sectors include warehousing for e-commerce, essential retail, and health and wellbeing spaces.

The Power of Cash Flow and Client Relationships:

• Cash flow becomes critical during recessions, allowing investors to maintain flexibility and seize opportunities.
• Maintaining strong relationships with clients and prioritising essential service tenants can enhance portfolio stability during economic uncertainties.

Debt Management and Financing Options:

• Keeping debt manageable and planning for potential revaluations can prevent costly refinancing issues during downturns.
• Jerry emphasises the importance of having a financial buffer and staying adaptable with financing options, such as bridge loans, to maintain liquidity.

Finding Opportunities Amid Downturns:

• Downturns can also present unique buying opportunities, allowing prepared investors to acquire properties at reduced prices.
• Long-term planning and adaptability are key to not only weathering economic storms but capitalising on them.

Resources Mentioned:

• Check out episodes 53 and 196 with Gavin Gallagher, where he shares his experience navigating the Celtic Tiger collapse.
• Follow us on Instagram @jerryalexander.commercial.
• Looking to build a resilient portfolio? Check out our Get in the Swim programme.

If you found this episode helpful, please leave us a review on iTunes or Spotify, and subscribe for more strategies to help you build a stable, recession-proof commercial property portfolio! Tune in next week for our interview with Richie Miller, who shares his experience with a diverse portfolio, including a self-storage business and a mega HMO.

JOIN THE NETWORK If you want to learn more about investing in Commercial Property, why not consider joining the CPI Network? We're a community of active investors who collaborate, share experiences, and empower each other in our Commercial Property endeavours.

Useful Links:

CPI Website - https://commercialpropertyinvestor.co.uk/

Our Sponsors - https://commercialpropertyinvestor.co.uk/podcast-sponsors/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, Jerry interviews Lee O'Donoghue, a Residential property investor with a fast evolving approach to commercial real estate. Lee shares insights on financing, managing commercial multi-let buildings, and the hands-on approach he and his wife take to adding value to properties. The discussion dives into the strategies Lee has used to grow his portfolio, the lifestyle he has crafted around his investments, and the challenges he's encountered along the way.

Key Takeaways:

1. Starting Out in Property Investment:

   • Lee his latest journey in property investment with his brother as a JV partner.
   • The choice to invest in property and particularly Commercial property was driven by a desire for a flexible, semi-passive income stream and a manageable lifestyle.

2. Financing and Partnership:

   • Lee's main financial partner is his brother, with whom he has structured a joint venture to finance acquisitions and property development.
   • With two buildings completed and a third under development, Lee’s experience has allowed him to focus on quality projects, with a mix of commercial and residential elements.

3. Hands-On Project Management:

   • Both Lee and his wife actively participate in the refurbishment and management of their properties, handling everything from gutting buildings to design led renovations.
   • Lee emphasizes a strategic approach to the workflow: he manages the heavy lifting, while his wife oversees the finishing touches, ensuring efficient project turnarounds.

4. New Project: Expanding into Mixed-Use Developments:

   • The latest project, a warehouse, includes two adjacent properties and has offered new opportunities. This venture is more complex, involving warehouse subdivision and 2 residential units.
   • Lee discusses his approach to maximizing space and income by potentially subdividing the warehouse for multiple tenants and incorporating container storage.

5. Growth and Opportunistic Investments:

   • Lee and his wife adopt an opportunistic approach to acquisitions, evaluating a range of properties based on their potential for adding value rather than sticking to a rigid investment criteria.
   • They have successfully sourced properties using online property platforms and building a great relationship with a Commercial agent.

6. Lessons Learned in Commercial Property Management:

   • Navigating commercial property rates and utility costs, particularly water charges, presented significant learning curves.
   • Building a network and establishing credibility with agents has been instrumental in gaining access to new deals, especially as a relative newcomer.

7. Future Plans and Lifestyle Goals:

   • Lee's primary goal is to build a sustainable income stream that supports his desired lifestyle, allowing him and his wife to balance work with leisure activities such as his favourite, golf.
   • Although he initially focused on smaller projects, he now feels confident exploring larger and more diverse opportunities.

Quotes:

• "My aim has always been to create a lifestyle that lets me enjoy life, not just grind for income."
• "Water bills were the cost I hadn’t planned for—it’s the rainwater drainage fees that add up!"

Conclusion: This episode offers a grounded look into the realities of building a small-scale commercial property portfolio, with practical insights on financing, project management, and navigating property-related challenges. Lee’s journey emphasizes the value of adaptability, partnership, and finding a balance between ambition and lifestyle.

Resources Mentioned:

• Follow us on Instagram for visuals and updates! @jerryalexander.commercial
• Check out the Get in the Swim program.

Call to Action: If you enjoyed today’s episode, please leave us a review on iTunes or Spotify, and don’t forget to subscribe for more expert insights into the world of commercial property investing!

JOIN THE NETWORK If you want to learn more about investing in Commercial Property, why not consider joining the CPI Network? We're a community of active investors who collaborate, share experiences, and empower each other in our Commercial Property endeavours.

Useful Links:

CPI Website - https://commercialpropertyinvestor.co.uk/

Our Sponsors - https://commercialpropertyinvestor.co.uk/podcast-sponsors/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of The Commercial Property Investor Podcast, we dive into one of the most rewarding aspects of commercial property investment: off-market deals. These are the hidden gems that haven't been publicly advertised, often leading to more lucrative opportunities with less competition. But how do you find them? Today, I explore various strategies for sourcing these deals, reaching out to potential vendors, and navigating the risks involved. Whether you're an experienced investor or just starting out, this episode will provide some actionable insights into securing those off-market properties that can set you apart from the competition.

Key Topics Covered:

• What off-market deals are and why they can be so valuable.
• Why property owners sell off-market (privacy, urgency, avoiding fees).
• Proven strategies for finding off-market deals, including:
  • Networking with industry professionals.
  • Running direct mail campaigns.
  • Utilizing local knowledge and scouting vacant properties.
  • Approaching properties pre- and post-auction.
  • Using online research and property databases.
  • Leveraging social media platforms like LinkedIn and Facebook groups.
• Tips on how to approach and communicate with property owners.
• Potential challenges and risks of off-market deals, including valuation difficulties and hidden issues.

Why Listen?
If you’re tired of browsing property platforms and struggling to find deals, this episode will teach you how to broaden your approach and tap into the off-market space. These strategies have worked for me and countless others, and they can work for you too. Whether you're seeking privacy-focused owners, distressed properties, or simply looking to avoid fierce competition, off-market commercial property deals provide a unique pathway to success in commercial property investment.

Key Quotes:

• "Off-market deals aren’t always easier, but they often give you a step up on the competition."
• "Networking is your number one ally. Most of my deals have come from the relationships I’ve built over the years."
• "Persistence is key. Off-market deals often take time to develop, but the rewards can be well worth the wait."

Action Step:
If you’re ready to dig deeper into the world of commercial property investing and find off-market deals, why not join our Get in the Swim program? It's an exclusive membership network for commercial property investors, offering deal analysis, educational sessions, and a chance to see some off-market opportunities firsthand. Details below!

If you enjoyed today’s episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review on iTunes or Spotify, and share it with other property enthusiasts. Got an off-market deal success story? Reach out—we’d love to hear from you!

Useful Links:

CPI Website - https://commercialpropertyinvestor.co.uk/

Our Sponsors - https://commercialpropertyinvestor.co.uk/podcast-sponsors/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode we explore one of the most fundamental questions every aspiring commercial property investor needs to ask themselves: "Why do you want to buy a commercial property?"

We emphasize the importance of understanding your personal reasons for getting into the commercial property market. From cash flow and time freedom to building long-term wealth, this episode covers the variety of motivations that drive individuals to make the leap. You’ll also hear about some of the realities and challenges, including raising finance, managing vacancies, and the commitment it takes to succeed in the long run.

Throughout the episode, we touch on key investment strategies such as simple buy-to-let, value-adding projects, and building a sustainable income stream through strategic planning. We also share how The CPI Network and programs like Get in the Swim can help you navigate the commercial property world, offering tools, education, and networking opportunities for investors at all stages.

Key Takeaways:

• Know Your Why: It's essential to have a clear understanding of your motivations for buying commercial property. Whether it's cash flow, capital growth, or long-term wealth building, defining your "why" will guide your strategy and decisions.

• Potential Benefits: Consistent reoccurring income, time freedom, retirement planning (e.g., SSAS Pension), capital growth, and inflation protection are just a few reasons why commercial property can be a lucrative investment.

• Challenges: Commercial property investment comes with its own set of hurdles, including property management, financing, and strategic decision-making. It’s not a get-rich-quick scheme, but a long-term commitment to building wealth.

• Choosing the Right Strategy: Whether you’re after steady cash flow, value-add opportunities, or a mix of both, the strategy you choose should align with your personal and financial goals.

• The Importance of Community: Being part of a network like The CPI Network gives you access to industry insights, support, and experience that can make your journey much smoother and help you avoid costly mistakes.

Mentions:

• The CPI Network: A community of commercial property investors for education, networking, and guidance.
• Get in the Swim Program: A monthly membership/retainer program offering education, deal analysis, and networking opportunities for those entering the commercial property space.

Resources Mentioned:

• Follow us on Instagram for visuals and updates! @jerryalexander.commercial
• Check out the Get in the Swim program.

Call to Action: If you enjoyed today’s episode, please leave us a review on iTunes or Spotify, and don’t forget to subscribe for more expert insights into the world of commercial property investing!

JOIN THE NETWORK If you want to learn more about investing in Commercial Property, why not consider joining the CPI Network? We're a community of active investors who collaborate, share experiences, and empower each other in our Commercial Property endeavours.

Useful Links:

CPI Website - https://commercialpropertyinvestor.co.uk/

Our Sponsors - https://commercialpropertyinvestor.co.uk/podcast-sponsors/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, we’re going deep with Andy Graham as he shares his journey from HMOs to commercial-to-residential developments! 🏗️

We unpack:

• Andy's journey from physio to property developer 👨‍⚕️➡️🏠
• His approach converting commercial properties into residential developments
• The power of partnerships in scaling up 🤝
• Real-life projects from Sheffield to Kent

Some numbers that might surprise you:

• Andy's first development: Under 3,000 sq ft was extended into 6 units
• Current pipeline: 100+ flats in development
• Target capital uplift: Minimum 25% on projects
• Timeline reality check: 2-3 years vs quick HMO flips ⏱️

Key lessons for HMO investors eyeing commercial:

1. Planning is a whole new game (and often a "black hole" of costs 💸)
2. Other income streams can buy you breathing space - development isn't about quick cash
3. It's a volume game - individual units might yield less than HMOs
4. Main contractors are essential - small additional costs per square foot can make or break deals

Success strategies we uncovered:

• Building relationships with commercial agents
• Understanding local development context deeply
• Having contingency plans (sometimes you need to sell some to keep some)
• Working with partners who complement your skills

🎬 Fun fact: Some of Andy's developments have even been featured on Channel 4.

Some key reflections:

1. The planning system might be "fundamentally broken" - but knowing how to navigate it is crucial
2. Commercial to resi development is about long-term capital growth, not immediate income
3. Understanding your local market deeply lets you move fast when opportunities arise
4. The right partnerships can transform your ability to take on bigger projects

Whether you’re considering a shift to commercial or just curious about different strategies that are out there, this episode is filled with valuable insights. Andy’s journey from HMOs to large-scale developments demonstrates that every developer begins somewhere - often with a single property and a desire to learn!

JOIN THE NETWORK If you want to learn more about investing in Commercial Property, why not consider joining the CPI Network? We're a community of active investors who collaborate, share experiences, and empower each other in our Commercial Property endeavours.

Useful Links:

The HMO Roadmap: https://thehmoroadmap.co.uk/

CPI Website - https://commercialpropertyinvestor.co.uk/

Our Sponsors - https://commercialpropertyinvestor.co.uk/podcast-sponsors/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, we're sharing a bittersweet story from our portfolio. When a long-standing tenant - a business we'd known and worked with for years - unfortunately went into liquidation, we found ourselves with a property back in our hands 5 years earlier than planned.

We talk through:

• The ripple effects when a tenant goes bust
• Navigating the unexpected (and the mountain of stuff left behind 😅)
• How market understanding helped us move forward

The numbers that might surprise you:

• Original rent: £33,000 per year
• New market rent: £58,000 per year
• What this meant for the property's value... 🤔

Some key reflections:

1. The importance of adaptability in commercial property
2. Why local market knowledge matters more than ever
3. Sometimes the best plans are the ones you didn't make

Looking back, this experience reinforced that commercial property isn't just about the numbers 🔢. It's about being prepared for the unexpected, understanding your market deeply, and sometimes, making the best of situations you didn't anticipate. While the outcome was positive for us, it's a reminder that in this business, change is the only constant. Whether that change brings challenges or opportunities often depends on your preparation and perspective.

It's been a busy September with training events in Scotland and lots of great conversations at property meetups. A heartfelt thanks to all the podcast listeners who came to say hello - you make this journey so much more enjoyable! 🤝

Thanks again and as always, make sure you stay in the commercial property swim! 🏊‍♂️

JOIN THE NETWORK If you want to learn more about investing in Commercial Property, why not consider joining the CPI Network? We're a community of active investors who collaborate, share experiences, and empower each other in our Commercial Property endeavours.

Useful Links:

CPI Website - https://commercialpropertyinvestor.co.uk/

Our Sponsors - https://commercialpropertyinvestor.co.uk/podcast-sponsors/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ever wondered how to grow your property empire when your pockets aren't endlessly deep? You're not alone! This week, we're diving into the nitty-gritty of scaling a commercial property business, with a special focus on the financial strategies that make it possible.

Here's what we're unpacking in this episode:

• Our journey from residential to commercial properties 🏠➡️🏢
• Leveraging growth through value-adding renovations
• Working with private lenders 🤝💰
• Navigating the changing landscape of bank expectations and LTVs

Key Takeaways that helped us (and might help you too):

1. Getting Creative with Starter Money 💡
2. The Art of Patience ⏳
3. Building Relationships with Financial Partners 
4. Finding the Right Mentor for You as an Investor🔎
5. Shifting Focus to Building Income 💸

Remember, scaling in commercial property likely won’t be a smooth ride. There may be bumps along the way and unexpected detours, but the view at the end is always worth it!

Have you been through a similar journey, or was your experience completely different? Either way we’d love to hear from you -  the wins, the challenges 🤦 and anything in between!

And as always, just keep swimming 🏊‍♂️ (even if it feels like you're swimming upstream).

JOIN THE NETWORK If you want to learn more about investing in Commercial Property, why not consider joining the CPI Network? We're a community of active investors who collaborate, share experiences, and empower each other in our Commercial Property endeavours.

Useful Links:

CPI Website - https://commercialpropertyinvestor.co.uk/

Our Sponsors - https://commercialpropertyinvestor.co.uk/podcast-sponsors/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, I sit down with Jose McClure from Unit Management, a family-run 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 flex space provider with nearly 60 years of history. 

Founded by Jose's father, the company has steadily expanded over the years and now operates 22 buildings across 20 locations.

After 20 years in residential property, Jose joined the family business four years ago. He now shares what it’s like to step into a company with deep roots and navigate the fast-changing world of flex space.

In this episode, Jose dives into:

• The challenge of proving yourself in a family business
• How Unit Management unintentionally became flex space pioneers
• Why some buildings buzz with life and others just don’t ⚡🤷 

He also sheds light on the not-so-glamorous side:

• The constant headache of business rates 💸
• The complexity of pricing flexible space
• The "organised chaos" that is commercial property management 🤯

Whether you're curious about the flex space industry or the shift from residential to commercial property, Jose’s story gives a candid peek behind the curtain.

Tune in for a lively chat about family, business, property, and the unpredictable world of flexible workspace! 🎧✨

JOIN THE NETWORK If you want to learn more about investing in Commercial Property (and avoid some of these heating headaches), why not consider joining the CPI Network? We're a community of active investors who collaborate, share experiences, and empower each other in our Commercial Property endeavours.

Useful Links:

Jose's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jose-manuel-mcclure-uml/

Unit Management Website: https://www.unitmanagement.co.uk/

CPI Website - https://commercialpropertyinvestor.co.uk/

Our Sponsors - https://commercialpropertyinvestor.co.uk/podcast-sponsors/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, we're pulling back the curtain on a nail-biting two-year journey that tested my resolve, creativity, and sanity...

Yep, it's the one you've been waiting for; our refinance.

We dive into:

• Our journey refinancing millions of £££s in loans 💸
• My financial wish list vs. reality check ✅
• The CFADS conundrum and why it sent us searching for new lenders 🔍

But it's not all number-crunching! We also share:

• Surviving the emotional rollercoaster of endless loan extensions 🎢
• Maintaining (or not maintaining) sanity under pressure 🧠
• The hidden toll on family life and creativity 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦
• Nuggets of wisdom for fellow property investors navigating choppy financial waters.

This journey was by far one of the most challenging experiences of my business career to date. But we got what we wanted in the end, learned invaluable lessons along the way and now we're passing that knowledge on to you.

We hope this story resonates with you, whether you're facing similar challenges or just curious about the realities of property investment. If any part of this episode strikes a chord, we'd love to hear from you.

After all, we're all in this to grow, learn, and succeed. 🚀💪

JOIN THE NETWORK If you want to learn more about investing in Commercial Property, why not consider joining the CPI Network? We're a community of active investors who collaborate, share experiences, and empower each other in our Commercial Property endeavours.

Useful Links:

CPI Website - https://commercialpropertyinvestor.co.uk/

Our Sponsors - https://commercialpropertyinvestor.co.uk/podcast-sponsors/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.