In this episode, Jerry gives a candid, reflective look at the struggles and resilience required in commercial property investment during turbulent times

No one said this was easy, but it is worth it. Jerry talks through Common Challenges
- Complex financing and refinancing
- Finding quality customers
- Unresponsive professionals
- Unreliable contractors
- Equipment breakdowns
- Perceived ease of success for others
- Shifting business tax landscapes

Cut yourself some slack, key advice for tough times

**Mindset Matters**
- Don't sit idle
- Take consistent action
- Maintain perspective
- Focus on what you can control

**Networking and Support**
- Reach out to industry peers
- Join professional networks
- Seek diverse perspectives
- Validate advice based on context

Jerry invites you to reach out:
- Connect via:
- Private message
- The CPI Facebook Group - "The commercial property investor podcast" group.
- Instagram @jerryalexander.commercial
- Or by tagging CPI handles

Key Takeaway
"If you are having some struggles with your property business, this too shall pass. Keep taking action, keep checking in, and keep asking."

---
Remember: In property investing, persistence and learning are your greatest assets.

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/

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 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.