The Commercial Real Estate Investor Podcast

Key Takeaways:Don't gamble in commercial real estate - have a clear strategyDevelop a Buy Box framework with 5 key steps:- Investor Identity - Asset Class Clarity - Market Focus - Financial Filters - Operational BoundariesKnow exactly what you want before investing:- Your investment goals - Desired property type - Target market - Minimum financial returns - Level of personal involvementBenefits of a Buy Box:- Saves time - Reduces risk - Provides clear investment criteria - Helps quickly eliminate unsuitable dealsFocus on:- Local market knowledge - Matching properties to your personal investment style - Having clear, predefined investment metrics

Key Takeaways:Creative Financing: Brandon leveraged seller financing and creative deal structures to grow his real estate portfolio, starting with house hacking in East Nashville.Freedom Number Approach: He set a clear goal of $10,000 monthly cash flow to transition from tour managing to full-time real estate investing.Partnerships and Delegation: After reading "Who Not How," Brandon learned to partner with the right people and delegate tasks instead of doing everything himself.Family-First Business Design: He intentionally structures his business to prioritize family time, including not working weekends and setting clear boundaries.Hairy Deals Strategy: Brandon sees opportunity in challenging properties by:Getting a low cost basisThoroughly investigating potential issuesGetting accurate repair estimatesMitigating risks methodicallyDiversified Portfolio: He maintains a mix of single-family homes, multifamily properties, and commercial real estate, with a strategic approach to holding or selling based on potential appreciation.Continuous Learning: Brandon views mistakes as feedback and constantly adapts his investment strategy, such as being more proactive about loan terms and interest rates.

Key Takeaways:Residential real estate is a "second job" with low returns, while commercial real estate offers scalable, passive incomeCommercial properties generate higher cash flow by leasing to multiple businesses under one roof, typically netting around $15,000 monthlyCommercial real estate allows investors to force appreciation by repositioning assets, changing tenant mix, and improving property layoutProfessional commercial tenants are more reliable, focused on business growth, and less emotionally demanding compared to residential tenantsSuccess in commercial real estate requires learning specific skills like deal underwriting, building a specialized team, and choosing the right investment strategy

Key Takeaways:Commercial Real Estate Corruption:Bribery and corruption are prevalent in the industryCommon issues include:Brokers taking backdoor paymentsSharing confidential informationBribing politicians for zoning approvals Contractors inflating project costsInvestment Advice:Always get agreements in writingTrust is crucial when selecting a brokerUnderstand market dynamics before analyzing dealsGet multiple bids for projectsBe cautious of potential conflicts of interestIndustry Insights:AI is increasingly impacting commercial real estateSpreadsheet analysis is less important than understanding market dynamicsEthical practices are critical in deal-makingRecommended Practices:Always counter offersVerify contractor work and costsBuild long-term relationships over short-term gainsBe transparent and maintain professional integrity

Key Takeaways:Passive Income Strategy: Wealthy investors use triple net leases to generate consistent monthly income from properties leased to national brands like CVS, Dollar General, and 7-Eleven.Low Maintenance Investment: These properties require minimal management, as tenants cover all expenses including taxes, insurance, and maintenance.Long-Term Benefits:Predictable income with 10-20 year leasesBuilt-in rent increasesSignificant tax advantagesWealth preservationInvestment Characteristics:Typically cost $1-3 million6-8% annual cash returnTenants are stable, large corporationsOften purchased in cash or with favorable bank termsInvestment OptionsDirect property purchaseREITs (Real Estate Investment Trusts)Fractional investing through crowdfunding1031 exchangesKey AdvantageThese investments are boring but powerful, focusing on steady, long-term wealth building rather than short-term excitement.

Key Takeaways:Early Exposure: Jake's background in real estate started with his father, who was an investor and flipper, which inspired his career path.Networking Strategy: He attended 8-10 networking events weekly and meticulously tracked contacts, believing "network is my net worth."Persistence: Jake used cold calling extensively, making up to 400 calls a day to build his pipeline.Specialization: He focused on 15-75 unit multifamily properties, primarily in the Murfreesboro market.Mindset Shift: Transitioned from a transactional approach to being an investment sales advisor, which helped differentiate himself.Continuous Learning: Invested in himself through masterminds, reading books, and attending industry events.Deal Sourcing: Demonstrated skill in finding off-market deals, including a 16-unit property he sourced and closed after 134 days of follow-up.Marketing Strategy: Uses LinkedIn, case studies, and creative follow-up to keep deals and relationships alive.Technology Adoption: Utilizes tools like Intel CRE for underwriting and Gamma for presentations.Motivation: Being laid off from his previous job drove him to take control of his career and succeed in commercial real estate brokerage.

Key Takeaways:Start Investing Early: Residential agents should begin investing in real estate to build cash flow and financial freedom, rather than spending money on luxury items.Cash Flow is King: Focus on creating passive income that can cover your expenses and provide options in life.Partnership Matters: Choose partners carefully and do thorough due diligence. A bad partnership can disrupt your peace of mind and potentially cost you money.Commercial Real Estate Advantages: Commercial properties often have less drama, more stable tenants, and require less day-to-day management compared to residential properties.Patience in Investing: Don't rush to do deals just to do them. Wait for opportunities that truly make financial sense, especially in challenging market conditions.Time Freedom is Valuable: Prioritize controlling your time over simply chasing money. Investments should provide you with more life options and flexibility.Continuous Learning: Enjoy the process of investing, keep showing up, and understand that building wealth is a journey, not an overnight success

Join Dave Codre from Greenleaf in Atlanta as he shares insights into the world of commercial real estate, particularly his shift from multifamily to flex spaces. He discusses the advantages of flexible layouts that attract diverse tenants and the importance of strategic maintenance for enhancing tenant satisfaction. Dave also delves into the financial aspects of investing, emphasizing double-digit returns and transparent profit splits. Learn about the Friars Crossing deal and why clean, functional spaces can significantly drive occupancy and market value.

Discover why investing in apartments may not be the path to financial freedom as many believe. Hear about alternative strategies like self-storage and triple net properties, which offer stable cash flow and less management hassle. Successful investors share insights on pivoting from multifamily to these unique asset classes, resulting in reduced stress and improved personal freedom. The importance of seeking diverse investments over sheer quantity is emphasized, guiding listeners to make informed decisions for a fulfilling investment journey.

Key Takeaways:Advice on leaving W2 job for real estate syndication:Don't leave your W2 job too quicklyStart small and gradually build your portfolioFees from initial deals likely won't cover living expensesHave a backup income source while growing your real estate businessChallenges of starting a syndication:Raising capital is difficultInitial deals may not generate significant incomeNeed to be prepared for 2-3 years of limited earningsRequires careful deal selection and strategic planningPersonal updates:Closing first solo commercial real estate dealWriting third book on commercial real estateGrowing mastermind groups to 140-160 membersUpcoming events and speaking engagementsInvestment strategy recommendations:Partner on deals when possibleStart with smaller projectsBuild relationships in the industryBe patient and strategic about growth