The December 2024 Commercial Real Estate Investing Newsletter

Here's A Second Opinion

We see 2025 as another good year for mobile home park owners for a number of reasons. And apparently, we’re not alone. In this recent article from Multi Housing News, the mobile home park industry got very positive marks in their opinion. We share these same views, which revolve around three key aspects:

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Mobile Home Park Mastery Podcast: Episode 372 - Fast Ways To Fill Lots Without Bringing In Homes

We all know that banks like mobile home parks at what they call “stabilized occupancy” – which is around 80% full – and have less affection for those properties that have not yet hit that status. When you are looking at buying a mobile home park with significant vacancy, one smart starting point is to make sure that your “vacant” lot count is reflective of what should be truly available.

Listen To Episode 372

RV Park Mastery Podcast: Episode 114 - All About Seller Seconds

Most RV Park deals revolve around a down - payment and a first - lien mortgage. But some deals have one additional financing tool: a seller second. In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to explore how seller seconds work, the legitimate purposes they can play, one pitfall they can create.

Listen To Episode 114

Self Storage University Podcast: Episode 112 - Don’t Fall For The Seller’s Bluff

Bluffing is not just a part of playing poker – it’s also found in working with self - storage facility sellers. In this Self - Storage University podcast we’re going to explore some of the most common seller bluffs and how to diffuse them.

Listen To Episode 112

Billboard Mastery Podcast: Episode 108 - Tips On How To Set Property Owner Compensation

The standard billboard ground lease involves trading the right to place a sign on the land in exchange for a monetary payment. But how do you decide that that amount should be? In this Billboard Mastery podcast we’re going to explore some techniques that help steer you towards a land rent that is fair for both parties.

Listen To Episode 108

4 Practical Ways to Stop Dumpster Abuse in Your Property

Few things create an eyesore and unnecessary expense like a dumpster that’s overflowing with debris or misused by unauthorized people. Whether it’s illegal dumping by outsiders or careless behavior from tenants, dumpster abuse can quickly escalate into significant costs and maintenance headaches. So, how can property owners effectively manage this issue? Here are four proven strategies to address and prevent dumpster misuse.

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Trusting Your Instincts: Why Feeling Right About an RV Park Deal Matters

In the world of RV park investing, data analysis is critical, but your gut instinct remains an underrated decision-making tool. When faced with countless pieces of information—financial statements, market conditions, interest rates, and property inspections—your subconscious mind works overtime to filter it all. That instinctive feeling you get, often called your “gut instinct,” deserves serious consideration when evaluating any deal.

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A Practical Guide to Securing Seller Financing for Self-Storage Investments

When it comes to purchasing self-storage facilities, securing seller financing can often be the key to a favorable deal. While some investors believe this approach is rare or unattainable, the truth is quite the opposite. By understanding the mechanics behind seller financing and how to communicate its advantages, you can greatly improve your chances of success.

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The Pros and Cons of Building a "V" Billboard: When Is It Worth It?

The decision to use a "V" structure for billboards has been around for over a century, and opinions still vary. While a "V" can dramatically improve the visibility and appeal of a sign, it also comes with a hefty price tag. If you’re thinking about incorporating this design, here’s what you need to consider to make the best decision for your investment.

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Mobile Home Park Mastery Podcast: Episode 371 - Who's The Boss?

Mobile home park owners have to deal with rules and regulations like any other business and making sure you are in full compliance is essential. In this Mobile Home Park Mastery podcast we’re going to focus on what the standard regulations are and which agency is responsible for them.

Listen To Episode 371

Despite 40-Year High Interest Rates, Mobile Home Parks Are Ramping Up In Value

It has just been announced that Brookfield Asset, a Canadian REIT, has sold a portion of their portfolio to several buyers for around $1.6 billion. While the numbers are not specific, it appears to represent over $100,000 per lot. What's remarkable is that this has occurred despite 40-year high interest rates and the general collapse in values for office, retail, hotel and self-storage properties. Let's just review the highlights from the article.

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Mobile Home Park Mastery Podcast: Episode 370 - When Sharing Is Caring

While most mobile home parks have direct access to roads and utilities, others share one or more of these with a neighboring property. In this Mobile Home Park Mastery podcast we’re going to explore the concept of shared services and how to navigate that issue correctly.

Listen To Episode 370

Adding Value Through Repetitive Design Elements in Mobile Home Parks

Investing in mobile home parks often comes with the challenge of balancing functionality and appeal. While some properties may lack natural charm, introducing deliberate design elements can significantly enhance their appearance and overall impression. These additions are not only visually impactful but also practical, offering long-term benefits to both the property and its tenants.

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Evaluating RV Park Success: The Power of a Destination

When investing in an RV park, its value isn’t just tied to its amenities or infrastructure—it’s in its location and how compelling it is as a destination. Successful RV parks are those that entice visitors to stay for extended periods, not just for a single night while passing through. These parks are more than stops; they’re experiences. Here’s how to evaluate whether an RV park is positioned as a true destination or simply a convenient overnight stay.

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Proven Marketing Techniques for Self-Storage Success

Marketing is an essential part of running a successful self-storage business, and effective strategies are often rooted in timeless principles. While there’s no magic formula, there are tried-and-tested methods that can make a significant difference. Here are key techniques every self-storage owner should consider

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Charting Your Own Path: Why Independent Thinkers Thrive in Billboard Investing

When faced with challenges, the natural instinct to follow the crowd often feels safe. But history shows that those who break away from the herd—true mavericks—frequently find greater success. Consider the horse chased by cowboys: the one that follows orders ends up corralled, while the one that takes its own path stays free. This lesson applies just as much to billboard investing as it does to life.

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Mobile Home Park Mastery Podcast: Episode 369 - Are "Trailers" User Friendly For Aging?

Baby Boomers are aging and they make up a large segment of mobile home park residents. Will mobile homes meet their needs in the years ahead? In this Mobile Home Park Mastery podcast we’re going to review if mobile homes can fit the needs of seniors and offer a great living experience for them.

Listen To Episode 369

RV Park Mastery Podcast: Episode 113 - The Hidden Message Sellers Send With Pricing Disclaimers

Some RV Park sellers simply put a price on their listings. And others attach words to that price – or offer no price at all. In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to explore the hidden meanings of these unusual seller price disclaimers.

Listen To Episode 113

Self Storage University Podcast: Episode 111 - Is The "Commercial Mortgage Apocalypse" Really A Hoax?

There is $2 trillion of commercial real estate mortgage debt coming due over the next two years. Given the low values and occupancy of much of these holdings, it’s assumed there will be a “commercial mortgage apocalypse” as a result. In this Self-Storage University podcast we’re going to review this event and where it currently stands.

Listen To Episode 111

Billboard Mastery Podcast: Episode 107 - Strategies To Own The Land Under Your Sign

The majority of billboards in the U.S. are located on leased land. But a tiny fraction are cases where the sign owner also controls the land underneath, which gives them unique stability. In this Billboard Mastery podcast we’re going to explore the strategies used to own the land as well as the sign.

Listen To Episode 107