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 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-truman
X: https://x.com/Twit_tru
Facebook 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.