Episode 35 – Don’t Be Afraid, Be Strategic: Why Government Proposals Make Niching More Important Than Ever

Host: Suzi Carter

In this episode of The Commercial Property Podcast, Suzi Carter unpacks the UK government's latest proposal to abolish upward-only rent reviews in commercial leases—a potential shake-up with big implications for landlords, investors, and the wider property market.

Suzi explains what this change could mean in practice, why it’s causing uncertainty, and how smart investors can turn fear into opportunity. Most importantly, she reveals why now is the time to double down on a clear, strategic niche and stay laser-focused on tenant demand.

If you're feeling uncertain about the direction of the market, this episode will give you clarity—and a plan.

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🔑 What You’ll Learn:

1. What Are Upward-Only Rent Reviews? • How they work in commercial leases • Why they’ve traditionally appealed to institutional and overseas investors

2. The Government’s Proposed Changes • What the new legislation aims to do • Possible effects on lease structures, rent certainty, and market confidence

3. Market-Wide Implications • Why the timing could destabilise an already fragile market • How overseas investment and property values might be impacted

4. What It Means for Your Investment Strategy • Why you should focus on what you can control: tenant demand and asset selection • How niching can protect and even enhance your returns

5. Lessons from the Past • What we learned from the retail downturn and COVID-driven trends • Why adapting to changing fundamentals is essential for long-term success

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💥 Key Takeaways:

• The proposed removal of upward-only rent reviews may shake investor confidence—but not if you're prepared.
• This change could lead to uncertainty, but also opens the door for more flexible, tenant-friendly lease strategies.
• In uncertain times, the strongest investors niche down, stay informed, and stay focused on tenant demand.
• Fundamentals still win: the right property, in the right place, with the right strategy.
• Every disruption creates opportunity—if you know where to look.

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📅 Want to join the next round of The Board starting September 2025? Click the link below to learn more and book a call with Suzi: 👉 Join The Board – Book a Call

🎙️ Episode 34: How to Keep Your Tenants – The Key to Long-Term Commercial Success Host: Suzi Carter

In this episode, Suzi Carter unpacks a vital (yet often underestimated) aspect of successful commercial property investing: tenant retention.

It’s not just about bricks and mortar—it's about people. Suzi shares how building strong tenant relationships and delivering consistent value can secure long-term income, protect your capital value, and reduce voids.

From selecting the right tenant to negotiating lease terms that work for everyone, Suzi gives you the practical strategies and mindset shifts needed to keep great tenants for the long haul.

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🔑 What You’ll Learn:

1. Why Tenant Retention Matters • How tenant stability supports cash flow and asset value • The real cost of losing a tenant—and how to avoid it

2. Matching the Right Tenant to the Right Property • How to think strategically about tenant fit • Common pitfalls in tenant selection and how to avoid them

3. How to Add Value That Keeps Tenants Loyal • Simple upgrades and service tweaks that make a big difference • Why communication is the glue that holds the relationship together

4. Lease Negotiation Tips That Benefit Everyone • What to focus on in your lease terms to protect both sides • How to set the tone for a long-term, cooperative relationship

5. Building a System for Tenant Success • Recap of relationship-building habits that drive retention • How to create a management system that scales with your portfolio

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💥 Key Takeaways:

✅ Tenant retention protects income and adds capital value ✅ Great relationships = fewer voids, smoother operations ✅ Careful tenant selection starts with smart stock selection ✅ Regular communication prevents small issues from escalating ✅ Transparent, fair service charges build long-term trust ✅ Lease terms should reflect a collaborative mindset

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📅 Want to Join the Next Board Starting September 2025? If you’re ready to build a sustainable, income-generating commercial property portfolio, The Board is for you. 👉 Click here to learn more and book a call with Suzi

🎙️ Episode 33: The Art of Follow-Up – The Underrated Skill That Wins More Commercial Deals Host: Suzi Carter

In this episode, Suzi Carter dives into one of the most overlooked—but most powerful—skills in commercial property investing: follow-up.

Too many investors lose out on great deals simply because they fail to follow up. Suzi breaks down why consistent communication, persistence, and timing are often the deciding factors between a lost lead and a completed deal.

You'll also hear insights into vendor psychology, how to read market signals, and how building strong relationships and systems can set you apart in a competitive market.

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🔑 What You’ll Learn:

1. Why Follow-Up Is a Deal-Maker in Commercial Property • How simple follow-up actions can revive “dead” deals • Why persistence often beats speed

2. Decoding Vendor Motivations and Market Shifts • What’s really going on in the mind of a vendor • How to adapt your approach based on market dynamics and vendor psychology

3. Systems and Relationships That Keep Deals Moving • Why relationships with agents and vendors are your secret weapon • How to build a scalable follow-up system that keeps your pipeline full

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💥 Top Takeaways: ✅ Follow-up is a critical but underused skill in commercial property investing ✅ Many vendors overvalue their properties—following up helps you be there when reality kicks in ✅ Relationship-building and consistent contact lead to more successful outcomes ✅ Systems create predictability, and predictability creates results

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📅 Want to Join the Next Board Starting September 2025? If you're serious about fast-tracking your commercial property journey, The Board is where big leaps happen. 👉 Click here to learn more and book a call with Suzi

🎙️ Episode 32: The Hottest Strategies Working Right Now in Commercial Property Host: Suzi Carter

Want to know what’s actually working in commercial property in today’s market? In this episode, Suzi Carter breaks down the proven strategies UK investors are using right now to find deals, boost returns, and stay ahead of the curve.

From powerful valuation tactics to value-add approaches that work in any market, Suzi shares the real-world insights that separate successful investors from the rest. Whether you're looking to scale or just get started, this episode is packed with actionable gold.

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🔥 In This Episode, You’ll Discover:

✅ Evergreen Strategies That Outperform Tried-and-tested approaches that work in any market—because fundamentals never go out of style.

✅ How to Value a Commercial Property (Properly) It’s all about rent and yield. Learn how smart investors use valuation to negotiate better deals and spot opportunities others miss.

✅ Multi-Let Properties: Your Secret Weapon More tenants = more income and less risk. Discover why multi-let is a game changer for savvy investors.

✅ Why You Make Your Money on the Buy Forget waiting for capital growth. Suzi explains how buying smart upfront sets you up for long-term profit.

✅ The Hidden Opportunity in Owner-Occupier Deals Unlock the overlooked potential in properties sold by business owners. It’s one of Suzi’s favourite strategies right now.

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💡 Quick Takeaways:

• Commercial property success is all about strategy—pick the right one, and the market doesn’t matter.
• Nail your numbers: rental income and yield are the keys to valuation.
• Multi-let = income stability + reduced vacancy risk.
• Always buy smart—your profit is in the purchase.
• Market insight is your edge. Research is non-negotiable.

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🎧 Listen now to get ahead of the market and start investing with confidence!

If you want to learn more about commercial property, don’t miss Suzi's Summer Webinar Series!  This is an 8 week series of webinars which will super charge your commercial investing knowledge.  You can register on this link https://hub.commercialpropertyacademy.co.uk/summer-series-webinar.

🎙️ Episode 31: How to Trade Commercial Property, Buy at Auction... and So Much More! With Jay Howard

Host: Suzi Carter | The Commercial Property Podcast

If you've ever wondered how to really win at commercial property auctions – this episode is your golden ticket. I’m joined by Jay Howard, one of the UK’s most knowledgeable auction and investment strategists, to reveal how smart investors trade commercial property for profit – and why auctions are one of the best places to do it.

We dive into:

The truth about how auctions work

How to buy (and sell) with confidence

Where the hidden profits lie – especially in vacant properties

And how to build a resilient, high-yield commercial portfolio using Jay’s “Three-Two-One” model

Whether you're just getting into commercial or you're ready to scale strategically, this episode is packed with the real-world frameworks and financial thinking that separate savvy investors from the rest.

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🔍 What You’ll Discover:

💡 Auction Tactics That Actually Work Cut through the hype and get a clear, strategic view of how auctions shape the commercial market – and how you can use them to your advantage.

📊 Yield Arbitrage: Your Secret Profit Weapon Find out how to spot, time, and structure deals that deliver stronger returns – even in a shifting market.

📐 The Three-Two-One Portfolio Framework Jay’s simple but powerful method to structure your portfolio for maximum upside and minimum risk.

📈 Why IRR > Yield Get clear on why IRR (Internal Rate of Return) gives you a better investment picture – and how to use it to make smarter, long-term decisions.

🔑 Adding Value Like a Pro Repositioning, lease structuring, tenant mix – we talk through the practical, often overlooked ways to boost capital and income value.

🚨 How to Navigate Auctions with Confidence From spotting red flags to knowing when (and how) to bid – this is your no-nonsense guide to commercial property auctions.

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💥 Big Takeaways:

✅ Yield is king – but timing, value, and structure are the crown. ✅ Vacant properties aren’t a problem – they’re your opportunity. ✅ The best investors think long-term and know their numbers. ✅ Auction brokers can be game-changers for your exit strategy.

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🎯 Want to fast-track your commercial investing journey? Our flagship mentoring programme, The Board, kicks off again in September 2025. If you’re serious about scaling with strategy and support – click here to learn more and book a call with me.

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📩 Want to speak to Jay? Contact him at [email protected] Or visit: www.hammeredauctions.co.uk

🎥 Follow Jay’s auction wisdom here: Hammered Auctions YouTube Property Auction Hunters

Episode 30: How to Nail a Niche — with Commercial Property Investor Ankie Bell

Host: Suzi Carter

🎙️Ready to break out of the residential rut and level up your property game? In this powerhouse episode, Suzi sits down with Board client and commercial investor Ankie Bell — who’s not just transitioned from residential to commercial, but nailed her niche and built serious momentum.

Ankie pulls back the curtain on how she found her focus, carved out a profitable niche, and created powerful relationships that unlock off-market deals most investors never even hear about. From decoding commercial valuations to leveraging yield compression, this episode is packed with real-life insights, wins, and game-changing strategies.

If you're looking to sharpen your strategy and find your edge in commercial property — this one’s not to be missed!

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🔑 What You’ll Learn:

1. How to Make the Leap from Residential to Commercial Discover why so many investors are making the switch — and how Ankie made hers successfully.

2. Nailing Your Niche Why generalists struggle — and how finding your sweet spot leads to faster, bigger wins.

3. Relationship Capital: Your Deal-Making Superpower Learn how Ankie built trust with agents and vendors to access high-quality, off-market deals.

4. Demystifying Commercial Valuation & Yield Compression Ankie shares how she assesses value and what savvy investors really need to understand about ROI.

5. The Power of Multi-Lets Explore the upsides (and challenges) of investing in multi-let commercial properties with a real-world deal breakdown.

6. EPC Essentials (Without the Drama) Cut through the noise on EPCs: what you need to know now and how to stay ahead of looming regulation.

💥 Key Takeaways:

• Niching down is a superpower in commercial property.
• Strong relationships = stronger deals.
• The right niche + the right network = off-market gold.
• Commercial valuation is simpler than you think — if you know what to look for.
• EPC compliance doesn’t have to be scary (or expensive).

If you are interested in finding out more about the next Board that starts in September 2025, click this link where you also book a call with Suzi.  https://hub.commercialpropertyacademy.co.uk/new-join-the-board-page

To contact Ankie about her sourcing services, email [email protected].

Host: Suzi Carter Episode Title: How to find a yield - a practical guide to putting in commercial offers!

In this episode, Suzi Carter delves into the complexities of commercial property yields, emphasising that understanding and calculating these yields is more of an art than a science. She explains the various factors that influence yield calculations, including market conditions, property location, and tenant demand. 

Suzi also discusses the importance of conducting thorough research and building relationships with commercial agents to validate yield estimates and make informed investment decisions. The conversation provides valuable insights for both new and experienced investors in the commercial property market.

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What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

1. Understanding Commercial Yields

• What yields mean in commercial property and how to calculate them
• Why yields are a crucial metric for assessing investment performance

2. Factors Influencing Yield Calculations

• Key variables like location, tenant strength, lease length, and market trends
• How these elements impact risk and return

3. Researching and Validating Yields

• Using comparables and market data to validate assumptions
• Why local market knowledge is essential for accurate yield assessment

4. Building Relationships with Agents

• The role of commercial agents in sourcing yield-generating deals
• How trust and consistent communication unlock better opportunities

5. Building Trust and Relationships in Investments

• Developing credibility with sellers, agents, and financiers
• Why relationship-building is vital for long-term success in commercial property investing

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Key Takeaways

• Commercial yields are crucial for valuing properties.
• Understanding the all-risk yield is essential for investors.
• Location plays a vital role in determining property yield.
• Researching comparable properties helps in estimating yields.
• Building relationships with agents enhances investment opportunities.
• Investors should focus on niche markets for better insights.

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Subscribe & Stay Tuned:

Don’t miss an episode! Hit subscribe now to gain more insights into commercial property investing and tax strategies.

Visit https://suzicarter.com/ to find out more about commercial property and to register for Suzi’s weekly newsletter which will deliver up-to-date commercial property advice direct to your inbox!

Follow Suzi on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@commercialpropertytv1685

Host: Suzi Carter Episode Title: Working With Investors - with Sam Cooke of Blue Bricks Magazine

In this episode, Sam Cooke, owner of Blue Bricks Magazine, shares his journey from marketing manager to business owner, discussing the evolution of the magazine and its focus on property investment. He provides valuable insights on raising private finance, understanding investor psychology, and the importance of building trust and relationships in investments. 

Sam emphasises the significance of shared values in partnerships and offers practical tips for networking and finding investors. He also discusses the concept of 'skin in the game' and what investors look for in potential partners, concluding with exciting future plans for Blue Bricks Magazine.

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What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

1. The Evolution of Blue Bricks Magazine

• How Blue Bricks started and evolved into a respected publication in the property investment community.
• The role it plays in sharing credible insights and attracting investors.

2. Raising Private Finance

• Understanding different ways to raise private finance for property deals.
• What works—and what doesn’t—when pitching to private investors.

3. Investor Psychology

• What motivates investors to say yes.
• Key principles of trust, risk tolerance, and decision-making in private finance.

4. Building Relationships and Trust

• Why relationship-building is more important than flashy presentations.
• Long-term trust strategies that create consistent deal flow.

5. Networking and Finding Investors

• Practical tips on where to find investors and how to engage them authentically.
• Leveraging events, social media, and content platforms.

6. Skin in the Game

• What it means to have “skin in the game” and why it matters to investors.
• How to present your commitment and build credibility.

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Key Takeaways

• Sam Cooke transitioned from marketing manager to owner of Blue Bricks Magazine.
• The magazine focuses on helping property investors save or make money.
• Networking at high-tier business events can yield better investor connections.
• Shared values between partners can lead to better business outcomes.
• Skin in the game means investing personal wealth in deals.
• The best partnerships often involve complementary strengths.

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Subscribe & Stay Tuned:

Don’t miss an episode! Hit subscribe now to gain more insights into commercial property investing and tax strategies.

Visit https://suzicarter.com/ to find out more about commercial property and to register for Suzi’s weekly newsletter which will deliver up-to-date commercial property advice direct to your inbox!

Join Suzi for a WHOLE day of commercial property training on Friday 13th June!  Suzi will take attendees through an overview of her Board level blueprint and will also do some live sourcing and deal stacking!  Click here to register and join - usual price of £495, but with this link only £97 plus VAT. Click this link to register. https://hub.commercial property academy.co.uk/blueprint---order-page

Follow Suzi on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@commercialpropertytv1685

Learn More from This Episode’s Guest: Sam Cook and Blue Bricks Magazine

Sam Cooke began as a market manager for Blue Bricks Magazine in 2021 before transitioning into an investment analyst role at the private equity firm that owned the publication. Three years ago, Sam acquired Blue Bricks Magazine and has since transformed it into a prominent brand within the UK property investment sector. With a dedicated team now in place—including a full-time marketing manager and an editor—Sam is able to concentrate on driving strategic initiatives and further expanding the magazine’s reach and impact.

Blue Bricks Magazine focuses on delivering content that helps property investors save or make money, offering practical insights and strategies tailored to the industry. It covers a range of topics including tax structuring, raising finance, managing tenants, and features success stories of individuals who have built substantial property portfolios. The magazine aims to inspire and educate its readers by showcasing real-life journeys and experiences within the property investment world.

🌐 https://bluebricksmagazine.com/ ✉️ [email protected]

Host: Suzi Carter Episode Title: Futureproof your portfolio - Choose your Tenants carefully!

In this episode, Suzi Carter discusses the critical importance of selecting the right tenants for commercial properties in a rapidly changing market. She emphasizes the need for landlords to understand market demand, tenant types, and future trends to ensure the viability of their investments. 

The discussion covers the impact of technology, economic shifts, and consumer behavior on tenant selection and property management. Suzi provides insights on how to future-proof commercial portfolios by diversifying tenant types and focusing on niche markets that can thrive despite broader economic challenges.

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What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

1. Choosing the Right Tenants for Commercial Properties

• Why tenant selection is crucial to long-term success
• How to assess tenant strength and alignment with your strategy

2. Future-Proofing Your Commercial Portfolio

• Strategies to adapt your portfolio to market shifts
• Tips for enhancing resilience through flexible leases and property upgrades

3.  Navigating Market Risks and Opportunities

• Identifying current trends that could affect tenant demand
• How to mitigate risks and position your portfolio for growth

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Key Takeaways

• Choosing your tenants is more important than ever
• Discretionary retail will struggle during downturns.
• Niche locations will work really well.
• As a landlord, choice is king.
• Nishing is absolutely key.
• There are so many opportunities that are going to open up.

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Subscribe & Stay Tuned:

Don’t miss an episode! Hit subscribe now to gain more insights into commercial property investing and tax strategies.

Visit https://suzicarter.com/ to find out more about commercial property and to register for Suzi’s weekly newsletter which will deliver up-to-date commercial property advice direct to your inbox!

Join Suzi for a WHOLE day of commercial property training on Friday 13th June!  Suzi will take attendees through an overview of her Board level blueprint and will also do some live sourcing and deal stacking!  Click here to register and join - usual price of £495, but with this link only £97 plus VAT. Click this link to register. https://hub.commercialpropertyacademy.co.uk/blueprint---order-page

Follow Suzi on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@commercialpropertytv1685

Host: Suzi Carter Episode Title: Due Diligence on Commercial Property

In this episode, Suzi Carter discusses the critical aspects of due diligence in commercial property investment. She emphasises the importance of thorough research, understanding tenant demand, and the financial implications of property investments. 

The conversation covers the five Rs of due diligence: Research, Requirements, Routes, Returns, and Relationships, and delves into property-specific research, legal considerations, and the importance of having a professional team. 

Suzi also provides insights on how to navigate the complexities of commercial property investment and encourages listeners to download a due diligence checklist to aid in their investment journey.

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What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

1. Introduction to Due Diligence in Commercial Property

• What due diligence really means for investors
• Why it's a critical step before any commercial purchase

2. In-Depth Research and Analysis

• Key factors to research: location, planning, and market trends
• How to assess a property's long-term viability

3. Understanding Tenant Relationships and Covenants

• What tenant covenants are and why they matter
• How lease terms can impact value and risk

4. Final Steps and Best Practices in Property Investment

• Final checks before completion
• Tips to ensure a smooth and informed investment process

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Key Takeaways

• Due diligence is essential to avoid costly mistakes in property investment.
• The first step in due diligence is thorough research into the investment.
• The five Rs of due diligence are research, requirements, routes, returns, and relationships.
• Financial returns should be clearly defined before making an investment.
• Legal and insurance aspects must be carefully considered in property transactions.
• Having a professional team, including lawyers and accountants, is vital for successful property investment.

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Subscribe & Stay Tuned:

Don’t miss an episode! Hit subscribe now to gain more insights into commercial property investing and tax strategies.

Click HERE to download Suzi’s Due Diligence checklist! 

Visit https://suzicarter.com/ to find out more about commercial property and to register for Suzi’s weekly newsletter which will deliver up-to-date commercial property advice direct to your inbox!

Join Suzi for a WHOLE day of commercial property training on Friday 13th June!  Suzi will take attendees through an overview of her Board level blueprint and will also do some live sourcing and deal stacking!  Click here to register and join - usual price of £495, but with this link only £97 plus VAT. Click this link to register. https://hub.commercialpropertyacademy.co.uk/blueprint---order-page

Follow Suzi on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@commercialpropertytv1685