

Commercial Real Estate Secrets
Aviva Sonenreich
Welcome to Commercial Real Estate Secrets, hosted by Aviva Sonenreich, a seasoned commercial real estate owner, broker, and content creator. On this podcast, you'll hear real stories from real people who have created real success in commercial real estate. Join us each week to gain invaluable insights and practical steps you can take to achieve your dreams of becoming a successful commercial real estate investor, agent, or broker.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jan 15, 2025 • 25min
Cracking the SEO Code: How Commercial Real Estate Brokers Can Rank in 2025
How can commercial real estate brokers stand out in search engine results when competition is fierce?As a commercial real estate broker myself, I know how tough it is to break into those coveted top spots on Google. You’ve built your business with care, but when it comes to ranking online, it can feel like an uphill battle. I’ve been there—wondering why the big names and even smaller competitors are outranking me, despite all my efforts to stand out.This week on Commercial Real Estate Secrets, I sit down with Travis Bliffen, the CEO of Stellar SEO, to uncover the ultimate strategies for improving your online visibility. Travis has over a decade of experience helping real estate professionals, mortgage brokers, and other niche industries rank higher in search engine results—and he’s sharing his expert advice with you.BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL LEARN:Why SEO is critical for commercial real estate brokers in 2024 and how it outperforms other marketing channels.The misconceptions around SEO timelines and budgets—and how to avoid common traps.Actionable steps you can take today to improve your website’s SEO, even without hiring an agency.Chapters00:00 Introduction to SEO and Its Importance04:15 SEO Misconceptions06:54 Average Budget for Real Estate SEO10:03 Challenges in Ranking Locally15:08 DIY SEO Tips for Brokers18:31 Impact of Google’s AI on SEO20:46 Personal Insights and Impact of SEOVisit StellarSEO.com for expert insights, resources, and ways to get in touch. You can also find Travis on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/in/travisbliffen. Liked this episode? Share it with a friend.Love the show? Leave us a 5-star review! Even a short sentence helps us keep bringing you the content you love.Ready to sell or lease a warehouse? Visit warehousehotline.com to get started. Connect with Aviva: Website TikTok Instagram Facebook LinkedIn

Jan 8, 2025 • 29min
Reviving Retail: How to Turn Empty Retail Stores into Profitable Self-Storage
Have you noticed the old Kmart in your area being transformed into something completely new? Imagine walking past what used to be a vacant, rundown retail store, only to find it buzzing with activity as a thriving climate-controlled self-storage facility. These transformations are happening more often than you think—and they’re reshaping communities and creating massive opportunities for investors.In this episode of Commercial Real Estate Secrets, I interviewed Clint Harris, GP at Nomad Capital and host of the Truly Passive Income podcast. Clint is at the forefront of this innovative strategy, converting old big-box retail spaces like Kmarts, warehouses, and even soda bottling facilities into high-performing, profitable assets. He’s not just transforming buildings; he’s transforming the way we think about adding value in commercial real estate.BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:How to identify high-potential properties for self-storage conversionThe benefits of converting vs. building new self-storage facilitiesStrategies for raising capital and mitigating risk in self-storage projectsChapters00:00 Introduction to Clint Harris and His Journey01:43 The Conversion Process: From Retail to Self-Storage05:16 Market Analysis and Location Strategy11:41 Risk Management in Self-Storage Conversions18:15 Funding and Raising Capital for Projects21:08 Returns and Investor Relations24:42 Finding Fulfillment in Real Estate26:57 Conclusion and How to Connect with Clint HarrisReady to learn more or connect with Clint? Visit nomadcapital.us or email him directly at clint@nomadcapital.us. You can also tune into the Truly Passive Income podcast for more insights from Clint and his journey in real estate. Liked this episode? Share it with a friend.Love the show? Leave us a 5-star review! Even a short sentence helps us keep bringing you the content you love.Ready to sell or lease a warehouse? Visit warehousehotline.com to get started. Connect with Aviva: Website TikTok Instagram Facebook LinkedIn

Jan 1, 2025 • 35min
The #1 Best Way To Stay Ahead In CRE With Cutting-Edge Technology
What’s your go-to source for commercial real estate data, and is it giving you the full picture?Many industry professionals rely on limited or outdated data, leaving them at a disadvantage when analyzing deals or negotiating contracts. Without the right tools and insights, you could miss critical opportunities or fail to maximize your investments. But what if you had access to transparent, actionable data that could level the playing field and put you ahead of the competition?This week, I chat with Lonnie Hendry, Chief Product Officer at Trepp Inc., a data modeling and analytics firm serving the commercial real estate industry. Lonnie is also the co-host of the popular TreppWire Podcast, making him a familiar voice for those in the CRE podcasting world. With a passion for commercial real estate and a deep understanding of data, Lonnie shares how Trepp is driving transparency and empowering industry professionals with actionable insights.BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL LEARN:How transparency in data empowers brokers, owners, and tenants to make smarter decisions.Why technology is revolutionizing the way commercial real estate deals are analyzed and negotiated.How leveraging actionable insights can give you a competitive edge in a dynamic market.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Lonnie Hendry and Trepp Inc.04:46 Understanding CMBS and Its Market Impact13:42 Making Data Actionable for Real Estate Professionals19:23 The Intersection of Technology and CRE28:57 Lonnie's Passion for Commercial Real EstateConnect with Lonnie Hendry:Website: https://www.trepp.com/LinkedIn: Lonnie HendryPodcast: TreppWire Podcast Liked this episode? Share it with a friend.Love the show? Leave us a 5-star review! Even a short sentence helps us keep bringing you the content you love.Ready to sell or lease a warehouse? Visit warehousehotline.com to get started. Connect with Aviva: Website TikTok Instagram Facebook LinkedIn

Dec 25, 2024 • 23min
A Surprising Way To Raise Millions Without Traditional Marketing
Have you ever wondered how a simple podcast appearance could transform your real estate business?In the competitive world of real estate, many professionals overlook a game-changing tool: podcast guesting. Without a strategic approach, you might struggle to connect with the right investors or fail to market your deals effectively. But what if you could creatively leverage podcasts to build trust, showcase your expertise, and attract accredited investors eager to fund your next big opportunity?In this episode, I chat with Trevor Oldham, founder of Podcasting You. Trevor shares his journey from launching his own podcast in 2015 to helping real estate investors use podcasting to raise capital and grow their brands. He highlights the synergy between podcasting and real estate, explains accredited investors, and offers tips on audience targeting, lead magnets, and the importance of consistency for success.BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL LEARN:A creative way to use podcast appearances to amplify your reach and raise capital.How to turn listeners into investors with smart marketing strategies.Why podcasting is not just a tool but a relationship-builder that fuels long-term success.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Background of Trevor Oldham03:19 The Synergy Between Podcasting and Real Estate05:38 Understanding Accredited Investors07:17 Strategies for Finding Limited Partners09:52 Identifying Bad Deals in Real Estate12:17 The Importance of Transparency in Syndication14:43 Tracking KPIs in Podcasting17:27 Timing and Podcasting for Capital Raises20:26 Advice for Aspiring PodcastersConnect with Trevor Oldham:Website: Podcasting YouLinkedIn: Trevor Oldham Liked this episode? Share it with a friend.Love the show? Leave us a 5-star review! Even a short sentence helps us keep bringing you the content you love.Ready to sell or lease a warehouse? Visit warehousehotline.com to get started. Connect with Aviva: Website TikTok Instagram Facebook LinkedIn

Dec 20, 2024 • 44min
The Secrets Behind Becoming a Trusted Voice in Real Estate Media
Are you struggling to get your real estate expertise noticed by a larger audience?Most real estate professionals miss out on opportunities to grow their business and influence because they don’t know how to leverage media effectively. Without a clear strategy, your voice might get lost — or worse, ignored.In this episode, Mitch Roschelle—renowned media commentator, real estate strategist, and former PwC partner with nearly four decades of experience—reveals how he became one of the most trusted voices in real estate media. From his regular appearances on Fox Business, Bloomberg, and NewsNation to his role as a visionary in workforce housing development, Mitch shares the proven strategies for breaking into media, delivering unmatched value to your audience, and making a real impact in the industry.BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL LEARN:✅ The single biggest mistake professionals make when trying to break into media.✅ How to position yourself as a go-to expert in real estate media.✅ Practical tips to prepare for TV, podcasts, and media interviews like a pro.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Mitch Roschelle and His Journey09:31 Advice for Breaking into Media18:08 Real Estate in Mainstream Media27:35 Media's Impact on Mitch Roschelle's Credibility and Business32:03 The Future of Media and Its Intersection with Real Estate38:01 The Rewarding Side of Real Estate for Mitch RoschelleTo learn more about Mitch’s work, visit Madison Ventures+ at madisonventuresplus.com. You can also explore his companies Angeles Madison Residential and Modrn Living, which focus on building quality workforce housing. Connect with Mitch directly on LinkedIn to stay updated on his latest projects and insights. Liked this episode? Share it with a friend.Love the show? Leave us a 5-star review! Even a short sentence helps us keep bringing you the content you love.Ready to sell or lease a warehouse? Visit warehousehotline.com to get started. Connect with Aviva: Website TikTok Instagram Facebook LinkedIn

Dec 18, 2024 • 19min
The Silent Killer That’s Slowing Down Commercial Real Estate Deals in 2024
What’s the biggest challenge facing commercial real estate financing in 2024? Are rising interest rates and lack of inventory holding you back from closing your next deal?If you’re overwhelmed by the limited financing options or unsure how to deal with today’s unpredictable market, you’re not alone. But what if you could tackle these obstacles with expert guidance and discover how to set yourself up for success?In this episode, Aviva chats with Kamyar Rezaie, President of Wembley Real Estate, to break down the current state of commercial real estate financing. Kamyar reveals practical strategies to overcome financing hurdles and tap into opportunities in today’s market—whether you're an investor, buyer, or broker.BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL LEARN:Why most deals today involve owner-user properties and 1031 exchangesHow to take advantage of opportunities in competitive markets like Los AngelesThe key role SBA loans play in making deals happen, even with high interest ratesChapters00:00 Introduction to Kamyar Rezaie01:45 Financing Trends in 202405:16 The Importance of Customer Service in Brokerage06:27 Market Insights: Office and Industrial Properties09:57 Building Client Relationships and Referrals10:57 Transitioning from Residential to Commercial Real Estate14:50 Technological Changes in Commercial Real Estate16:47 The Joy of Helping Clients in Commercial Real EstateConnect with Kamyar Rezaie:Visit his website www.wembleysinc.com or call his office at 818-703-9337. Liked this episode? Share it with a friend.Love the show? Leave us a 5-star review! Even a short sentence helps us keep bringing you the content you love.Ready to sell or lease a warehouse? Visit warehousehotline.com to get started. Connect with Aviva: Website TikTok Instagram Facebook LinkedIn

Dec 11, 2024 • 20min
Insider Secrets to Maximizing Your Short-Term Rental Profits
Are short-term rentals still a smart investment in today’s market?Many investors are unsure if short-term rentals are as profitable as they once were, especially with rising fees and increased competition from traditional hotels. Without the right strategy, you might be leaving money on the table or missing out on creating an unforgettable guest experience. But with the right approach, short-term rentals can still be a highly lucrative investment.In this episode, I sit down with Jacki Semerau Tait, a top-producing real estate agent from Flagstaff, Arizona, who specializes in short-term rental properties. Jacki shares her insights on the current state of the market and why experience-driven short-term rentals are the key to staying competitive.BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL LEARN:How to create a unique, experience-focused short-term rental that stands out in a crowded market.Why short-term rentals are still a viable investment option post-pandemic.The top mistakes investors make when trying to "time" the real estate market.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Jacki Tait and Her Journey in Real Estate03:09 A Day in the Life of a Top Producing Agent06:25 Current State of the Residential Market09:31 The Evolution of Short-Term Rentals12:32 Experience Over Convenience in Short-Term Rentals15:30 Building Relationships in Real Estate18:26 The Joy of Helping Clients Achieve Their DreamsConnect with Jacki Tait:Visit her website: StepsToStrength.com Liked this episode? Share it with a friend.Love the show? Leave us a 5-star review! Even a short sentence helps us keep bringing you the content you love.Ready to sell or lease a warehouse? Visit warehousehotline.com to get started. Connect with Aviva: Website TikTok Instagram Facebook LinkedIn

Dec 4, 2024 • 33min
The #1 Best Way to Stand Out in Commercial Real Estate Today
What does it take to break through the noise and make an impact in commercial real estate marketing in just five months?Many real estate professionals stick to the same old boring content strategies, missing out on the true potential of authentic engagement. If you're feeling stuck, trying to fit into an industry mold that doesn’t suit your creative side, you're not alone. The good news? There’s a way to stand out and connect in ways that truly resonate.In this episode, I sit down with Fly Jamerson, Content Marketing Coordinator at Elifin Realty, who’s making waves in the commercial real estate industry with her bold, fresh, and authentic approach to content. Fly shares how she conquered her fears, embraced risk, and developed a unique marketing strategy centered around genuine conversations.BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL LEARN:How to create content that’s fearless, entertaining, and truly engaging.Why meaningful conversations are the key to success in commercial real estate.Strategies for overcoming fears and breaking into an industry with confidence.Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Listener of the Week02:55 Fly Jamerson's Journey into Commercial Real Estate07:12 The Impact of Content Creation in Real Estate11:41 Future Trends in Marketing and Content Creation18:09 The Importance of Authenticity in Content21:45 Building Community and Supporting Agents25:10 Creative Problem Solving in Content Creation29:47 Finding Joy in Commercial Real Estate32:23 Conclusion and Where to Find Fly JamersonConnect with Fly Jamerson:Follow Fly on Instagram: @hey_itsflyFind out more about Elephant Realty: elifinrealty.com Liked this episode? Share it with a friend.Love the show? Leave us a 5-star review! Even a short sentence helps us keep bringing you the content you love.Ready to sell or lease a warehouse? Visit warehousehotline.com to get started. Connect with Aviva: Website TikTok Instagram Facebook LinkedIn

Nov 27, 2024 • 20min
The Ultimate Guide to Funding Energy-Efficient Upgrades with C-PACE Financing
What are you missing when it comes to financing energy efficiency projects in commercial real estate? In this episode, I sit down with Jason Schwartzberg, founder and president of MD Energy Advisors, to talk about C-PACE financing—a game-changing solution that not only fills gaps in your capital stack but also propels sustainable and energy-efficient initiatives forward.BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL LEARN:How C-PACE financing works and why it’s a game-changer for commercial real estate.The three key hurdles to overcome when applying for C-PACE financing.Real-world examples of how C-PACE has transformed projectsChapters00:00 Introduction to Jason Schwartzberg and MD Energy Advisors03:42 Understanding C-PACE Financing06:05 Current Lending Challenges and C-PACE's Role08:19 Unique Use Cases for C-PACE Financing11:14 Retrofitting Buildings: Opportunities and Challenges13:01 C-PACE Applications in Warehousing15:06 Solar Energy Efficiency and Future Trends16:34 Benefits of C-PACE Financing Connect with Jason SchwartzbergWebsite: MD Energy AdvisorsEmail: jason@mdenergyadvisors.comLinkedIn: Jason Schwartzberg Liked this episode? Share it with a friend.Love the show? Leave us a 5-star review! Even a short sentence helps us keep bringing you the content you love.Ready to sell or lease a warehouse? Visit warehousehotline.com to get started. Connect with Aviva: Website TikTok Instagram Facebook LinkedIn

Nov 20, 2024 • 25min
Is All Media Good Media in Commercial Real Estate?
In a world where information is increasingly accessible yet often sensationalized, is all media truly good media? In this episode of Commercial Real Estate Secrets, I’m thrilled to be chatting with Matt Geiger, a reporter from Business Den, who’s dedicated to bringing the true story of commercial real estate to light. Matt shares the importance of good media—reporting that doesn’t just grab attention but actually serves the market, the people, and the spaces we all rely on.BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL LEARN:Why transparency in media is essential for a healthy commercial real estate market.The challenges reporters face as they balance objective reporting with the pressures of modern media.How limited information impacts market dynamics and decision-making in real estate.Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Commercial Real Estate Reporting02:10 Finding Interest in Commercial Real Estate04:06 The Process of Story Discovery06:12 Quirky Stories in Real Estate10:31 Navigating Affordability and Development Challenges11:47 Energize Denver and Its Impact14:12 Investment Insights: The Appeal of Warehouses19:20 The Role of Media in Real Estate22:38 The Joys of Reporting on City GrowthIf you have a tip or a story you’d like Matt to cover, he’d love to hear from you. Reach him via email at matt@businessden.com, and check out his latest work at businessden.com. Liked this episode? Share it with a friend.Love the show? Leave us a 5-star review! Even a short sentence helps us keep bringing you the content you love.Ready to sell or lease a warehouse? Visit warehousehotline.com to get started. Connect with Aviva: Website TikTok Instagram Facebook LinkedIn


