Commercial Property Investor Podcast

"The office is dead" makes for a great headline, but for the active investor, the reality is far more exciting. In Part 2 of our office series, we look at why the current "mismatch" between old buildings and new demand is creating the biggest investment opportunities in a generation. We break down the "active investor's game," explaining why solving specific building problems is more profitable than trying to predict macro market moves. LEARN ABOUT THE FUNDAMENTALS: If you want to learn more about investing in Commercial Property, why not join us for our 2 day Introduction to the fundamentals of Commercial Property? Learn how the market works and the ways in which it differs from Residential property so you can avoid the pitfalls and learn how to create successful deals.https://commercialpropertyinvestor.co.uk/2-day-introduction Other 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.

The headlines say the office is finished, but the reality on the ground tells a much more nuanced story. In the first of a two-part deep dive into the office sector, we move past the polarized "work-from-home vs. office" debate to look at how our relationship with space has fundamentally shifted. LEARN ABOUT THE FUNDAMENTALS: If you want to learn more about investing in Commercial Property, why not join us for our 2 day Introduction to the fundamentals of Commercial Property? Learn how the market works and the ways in which it differs from Residential property so you can avoid the pitfalls and learn how to create successful deals.https://commercialpropertyinvestor.co.uk/2-day-introduction Other 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.

"The expert said no, so it must be impossible." If you’ve ever uttered those words, this episode is for you. After 20 years in commercial property investing, Jerry has learned a vital, sometimes expensive lesson: Professional advice is not gospel—it is an interpretation. While architects, accountants, and valuers are essential to your success, they view your project through the lens of their own risk appetite, rigid "paper rules," or short-term motivations. In this episode, we pull back the curtain on the "expert" industry to show you why one professional’s "fact" might actually be "fiction" for your specific deal. LEARN ABOUT THE FUNDAMENTALS: If you want to learn more about investing in Commercial Property, why not join us for our 2 day Introduction to the fundamentals of Commercial Property? Learn how the market works and the ways in which it differs from Residential property so you can avoid the pitfalls and learn how to create successful deals.https://commercialpropertyinvestor.co.uk/2-day-introduction Other 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.

Welcome to 2026! Today’s episode is a little different. There are no technical deep dives into yields or lease structures. Instead, we’re taking advantage of the "clean page" that New Year’s Day provides to have an honest, behind-the-scenes conversation about the reality of building a commercial property business. In this episode, Jerry reflects on a transformative 2025—a year defined not by "fireworks," but by the difficult, quiet work of laying foundations. He shares the hard decisions made to simplify the business, the major pivots in strategy, and how "decluttering" your professional life can create more value than any new acquisition. LEARN ABOUT THE FUNDAMENTALS: If you want to learn more about investing in Commercial Property, why not join us for our 2 day Introduction to the fundamentals of Commercial Property? Learn how the market works and the ways in which it differs from Residential property so you can avoid the pitfalls and learn how to create successful deals.https://commercialpropertyinvestor.co.uk/2-day-introduction Other 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.

Merry Christmas! Whether you are listening to this on Christmas morning escaping the kitchen chaos, out for a festive walk, or catching up during that "blurred" week between Christmas and New Year, thank you for being here. In this special holiday episode, Jerry takes a break from the heavy technical deep dives to offer a moment of reflection. 2025 has been a "flat" year for many in the UK commercial property market—a year characterized by shifting government policies, regulatory changes, and a general sense of uncertainty. However, as Jerry discusses, consistency beats intensity. Today is about celebrating the discipline of staying in the game and preparing for the opportunities that 2026 will bring. LEARN ABOUT THE FUNDAMENTALS: If you want to learn more about investing in Commercial Property, why not join us for our 2 day Introduction to the fundamentals of Commercial Property? Learn how the market works and the ways in which it differs from Residential property so you can avoid the pitfalls and learn how to create successful deals.https://commercialpropertyinvestor.co.uk/2-day-introduction Other 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.

Industrial property has long been the "boring" backbone of commercial investment—and that is exactly why it works. As we wrap up our deep-dive sector updates for 2025, we’re looking at the asset class that provides the space businesses genuinely need to function, regardless of economic fashion. In this episode, we move past the "Amazon-style" mega-warehouses to focus on what matters to the private investor: small units, trade estates, and workshops. We discuss why the "frothy" period of 2021–22 has ended and why the current "normalization" phase is actually the best time for sensible investors to strike. LEARN ABOUT THE FUNDAMENTALS: If you want to learn more about investing in Commercial Property, why not join us for our 2 day Introduction to the fundamentals of Commercial Property? Learn how the market works and the ways in which it differs from Residential property so you can avoid the pitfalls and learn how to create successful deals.https://commercialpropertyinvestor.co.uk/2-day-introduction Other 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.

This week, the tables are turned for our guest, Neil Munday, founder of the Sterling Business Podcast and a key property developer in Stirling, as Jerry catches up with him about his most ambitious project to date: the multi-faceted commercial redevelopment at 45 King Street. Neil shares the fascinating story of how he leveraged his extensive corporate background to tackle this complex, mixed-use commercial development, and the valuable—and sometimes painful—lessons he learned along the way. 🔑 Episode Highlights:  The Big Leap: How former corporate IT leader Neil Munday transitioned from a 30-year career at giants like Cisco to becoming a full-time property investor and developer. Creative Financing: A deep dive into using a SSAS pension scheme (Small Self-Administered Scheme) to fund the £2 Million redevelopment, detailing the PropCo/OpCo structure for tax-efficient asset growth. Multi-Use Mastery: Breaking down the 20,000 sq ft Stirling project: a 15-room Aparthotel, flexible workspace, events centre, and recording studio—all operating under one roof. Tech-Enabled Operations: Discover how Neil leverages his tech background to run the expansive, high-end building with a highly efficient, minimal team, focusing on superior customer experience and consistency. The Development Tax: Neil reveals the brutal cost of delays—a 9-month setback and a 25% budget overrun—and the painful lessons learned from council compliance and unexpected build costs. Future-Proofing Success: Critical takeaways, including why Neil will never use a main contractor again and his plan to "double down" on similar mixed-use projects in the growing Stirling market. To find out more about Neil and his projects - Website - https://workingflexispaces.com/  LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/working-flexispaces/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/workingflexispaces/  LEARN ABOUT THE FUNDAMENTALS: If you want to learn more about investing in Commercial Property, why not join us for our 2 day Introduction to the fundamentals of Commercial Property? Learn how the market works and the ways in which it differs from Residential property so you can avoid the pitfalls and learn how to create successful deals.https://commercialpropertyinvestor.co.uk/2-day-introduction Other 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.

Forget the "retail is dead" narrative. It's time to talk about the quiet recovery happening in commercial property. In this two-part episode, we break down the data that shows retail as the top-performing asset class of 2025. We reveal which specific retail types are thriving (think retail parks and flexible units), and who the new tenants are (Experiential, Health & Wellness, and Value Retailers). Learn the four vital signs of a town that's ready for a turnaround, and discover why flexible and smaller is the new blueprint for landlord success. LEARN ABOUT THE FUNDAMENTALS: If you want to learn more about investing in Commercial Property, why not join us for our 2 day Introduction to the fundamentals of Commercial Property? Learn how the market works and the ways in which it differs from Residential property so you can avoid the pitfalls and learn how to create successful deals.https://commercialpropertyinvestor.co.uk/2-day-introduction Other 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.

Are you walking past your next great commercial property deal? In this episode, we dive into the fascinating world of "difficult buildings"—the quirky, awkward, specialized, or just plain hard-to-imagine properties that most investors overlook. From old public toilets (yes, toilets) and churches to industrial units, banks, and former schools, all of these often hide the best commercial investment opportunities. Learn how to apply imagination, creativity, and strategic thinking to buildings that are typically cheaper because they're seen as "problems," and transform them into valuable, versatile, and profitable commercial spaces.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Have you bought a property only to find it is a problem project? Ever found yourself waking up at 3am worrying about a building? You continue to ask if you have made the right decision. the constant back and forth in your head asking yourself "what have I done", "how do I make this work", what should I do next? It keeps going around and around but your not managing to make a decision. This episode challenges the common trap where your entire focus, energy, and investor identity become wrapped up in one single, often imperfect project. You’ve taken a big step, but now that one building is stalling your progress. You're spending every drop of your energy on making it work before moving on, but the truth is: "You’re not building a building. You’re building a business."  Don't let one building define you. Learn how to shift your mindset, extract the valuable lessons, and regain momentum. Discover why the cost of inaction (the opportunity cost) far outweighs any potential loss on a tricky deal, and why "There’s no such thing as a bad profit." It’s time to stop letting one project hold your future hostage—you need momentum, not closure. LEARN ABOUT THE FUNDAMENTALS: If you want to learn more about investing in Commercial Property, why not join us for our 2 day Introduction to the fundamentals of Commercial Property? Learn how the market works and the ways in which it differs from Residential property so you can avoid the pitfalls and learn how to create successful deals.https://commercialpropertyinvestor.co.uk/2-day-introduction Other 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.

You've done the learning, you're excited about the possibilities, but moving from knowledge to action feels like hitting a brick wall. The truth is, that wall isn't made of a lack of capital or opportunity—it's often built from mental blocks and self-imposed excuses. Following up on last week's episode, Jerry will be deep diving into the most common reasons people give for not taking the next step in their commercial property journey. These are real barriers said by real people—and they are all conquerable! In this episode, you will learn how to: Reframing Finance: Stop viewing private capital as 'asking for a favour' and start seeing it as 'offering a valuable, secured opportunity' (plus, discover strategies to get started without raising capital at all!). Deconstruct 'I'm Not Ready Yet': Understand why waiting for "the right time" or "being perfectly ready" is a common delay tactic that costs you valuable time and better deals. Generate Cash Flow NOW: Explore effective, low-capital-intensive strategies like rent-to-rent in commercial property that can create income before you own the building. Choose Your Path: Get an honest take on the Commercial vs. Residential debate and why commercial property can absolutely be your first step, provided you learn the right process. Shift Your Mindset: Go through the checklist of excuses—from fear of mistakes to feeling "too busy"—and replace them with actionable steps toward building your cash-flowing portfolio. Helpful Podcast Episode: "How To buy Now And Pay Later In Commercial Property"  LEARN ABOUT THE FUNDAMENTALS: If you want to learn more about investing in Commercial Property, why not join us for our 2 day Introduction to the fundamentals of Commercial Property? Learn how the market works and the ways in which it differs from Residential property so you can avoid the pitfalls and learn how to create successful deals.https://commercialpropertyinvestor.co.uk/2-day-introduction Other 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 over 300 episodes, this might be one of the most valuable. This week, Jerry's having a candid, informal chat about the 12 things he wish someone had told him when he was getting started in commercial property. These are the lessons you only learn by doing deals—and usually by getting something expensive wrong first. We dive deep into the mechanics of deal-making and long-term momentum, including: The hidden truth about VAT on commercial property. How to properly treat redevelopment costs (and why your lender cares). The essential difference between Fundamentals vs. Strategy. Why "Empty Space is a Cost, Not Just a Void." How to balance and challenge professional advice (a lesson that once saved a client £200,000). Mastering the Valuation Process (it's not just math). Unlocking alternative finance options beyond cash or mortgage. If you’re serious about making smarter, faster, and more profitable commercial property decisions, this episode is mandatory listening. Stop learning the hard way—learn from Jerry's mistakes. LEARN ABOUT THE FUNDAMENTALS: If you want to learn more about investing in Commercial Property, why not join us for our 2 day Introduction to the fundamentals of Commercial Property? Learn how the market works and the ways in which it differs from Residential property so you can avoid the pitfalls and learn how to create successful deals.https://commercialpropertyinvestor.co.uk/2-day-introduction Other 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.

The truth about investing is simple: the fundamentals of a good deal are timeless. But the context we apply them in—interest rates, hybrid working, and planning reform—has shifted dramatically. In this follow up to last week's episode, Jerry cuts through the noise to show you how to spot genuinely lucrative opportunities right now. Learn how to adapt your strategy without losing sight of the core principles, why local commuter towns are booming, and the practical playbook for investors who move while everyone else freezes. LEARN ABOUT THE FUNDAMENTALS: If you want to learn more about investing in Commercial Property, why not join us for our 2 day Introduction to the fundamentals of Commercial Property? Learn how the market works and the ways in which it differs from Residential property so you can avoid the pitfalls and learn how to create successful deals.https://commercialpropertyinvestor.co.uk/2-day-introduction Other 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.

Everyone's talking about hybrid work killing the office, but is that actually true for the private investor? Inspired by a listener question, Jerry cuts through the hype to explain how the hybrid model is really reshaping commercial property. Learn who hybrid working actually impacts (hint: it's not the local two-person plumbing firm), why major companies are choosing "smaller and better" spaces, and how HR departments are driving a new demand for regional hubs. Far from ending the office era, hybrid has simply made every square foot more intentional. Discover where the activity has really moved and how to position your investments to capture the opportunity. LEARN ABOUT THE FUNDAMENTALS: If you want to learn more about investing in Commercial Property, why not join us for our 2 day Introduction to the fundamentals of Commercial Property? Learn how the market works and the ways in which it differs from Residential property so you can avoid the pitfalls and learn how to create successful deals.https://commercialpropertyinvestor.co.uk/2-day-introduction Other 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.

This week Jerry is joined by renowned architectural conservationist, Claire Truman. This episode delves into the delicate art of breathing new life into historic buildings. Claire, with over 20 years of experience, shares her expertise on how to navigate the complexities of balancing historical integrity with modern environmental efficiency. From the unique challenges of Manhattan's landmark buildings to the iconic transformations of Waterhouse Square and the Gainsborough Hotel in the UK, Claire provides a behind-the-scenes look at her most notable projects. Discover the critical role of upfront strategy, the importance of a holistic approach to building improvements, and the key characteristics of successful developers in the heritage sector. Whether you're a developer, architect, or simply a history enthusiast, this podcast offers invaluable insights into the business and art of historical building conservation. Get in touch with Claire for more information or to sign up to her newsletter: Website: www.heritagerevival.uk Instagram: _clairetruman LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/claire-trumanX: https://x.com/Twit_truFacebook for Claire: https://www.facebook.com/clairetruman2 Facebook for Heritage Revival: https://www.facebook.com/VivaHeritage  LEARN ABOUT THE FUNDAMENTALS: If you want to learn more about investing in Commercial Property, why not join us for our 2 day Introduction to the fundamentals of Commercial Property? Learn how the market works and the ways in which it differs from Residential property so you can avoid the pitfalls and learn how to create successful deals. https://commercialpropertyinvestor.co.uk/2-day-introduction Other 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.

The deal is on the table. The numbers look good. So why are you filled with a sense of dread? In the world of commercial property, that feeling is more common than you think. This week Jerry gets honest about the quiet panic that can creep in before you even sign on the dotted line. This isn't just about classic buyer's remorse; it's about the unique anxiety that hits investors on the verge of a major deal. Drawing from his own experience, Jerry explores: The surprising moment a deal completes and you feel... flat. How to tell if you're walking away from a deal because of a real problem or just cold feet. The simple steps that can help you move through fear instead of being stopped by it. If you've ever felt that heavy cloud of doubt, this episode is for you. Learn how to normalize the fear, understand what it's trying to tell you, and embrace the emotional—and profitable—journey of investing. LEARN ABOUT THE FUNDAMENTALS: If you want to learn more about investing in Commercial Property, why not join us for our 2 day Introduction to the fundamentals of Commercial Property? Learn how the market works and the ways in which it differs from Residential property so you can avoid the pitfalls and learn how to create successful deals. https://commercialpropertyinvestor.co.uk/2-day-introduction Other 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.

Ever wonder what goes into making an offer on a commercial property? It can feel messy, but there's a simple, four-number formula that can help you assess any deal. In this episode, we break down those four essential numbers and explain why focusing on project costs and potential income first—rather than the asking price—will help you make a smart, profitable offer every time. 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.

Many residential property investors are considering the jump to commercial, but they often make a critical mistake: they focus on strategy before mastering the fundamentals. In this episode, Jerry explains why this approach is akin to gambling and how a solid foundation is the key to building long-term wealth. Drawing on his extensive experience, Jerry busts five common myths about commercial property investing, from the idea that a good strategy can save a bad deal to the misconception that you need millions to get started. He shares a compelling real-life story of two developers whose "plan A" failed but were saved by their strong grasp of the fundamentals. This episode is a must-listen for anyone who wants to move beyond luck and build a truly resilient commercial property portfolio. Learn the seven essential fundamentals that protect your investments and allow you to pivot with confidence, no matter how the market changes. 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 of the Commercial Property Investor Podcast, Jerry chats with Harpreet Saini about his first commercial project — transforming a former Aberdeen eye clinic into a thriving 9-room commercial multi-let. Harpreet shares how he negotiated the purchase, balanced options between HMO, aparthotel, and CMO, and why he ultimately chose the multi-let route. We dive into the numbers, the challenges of getting started, and the lessons learned — from experimenting with pricing to automating systems for hands-off management. Harpreet also opens up about balancing property investing with a full-time career in oil and gas, and how he’s building a portfolio that supports long-term freedom and legacy. To keep up with Harpreet's projects you can follow him on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/urba_nliving/ 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.

Drawing on last week's "barbell effect", Jerry takes a deep dive into the banking sector, showing how legacy capital investments and outdated systems have left traditional banks vulnerable. He argues that this same principle applies to commercial property, where many older buildings are now "stranded assets." This creates a clear advantage for new investors. Learn why now is the best time to start and how to use the barbell strategy to build a robust portfolio that capitalizes on today's unique opportunities. 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.