In this podcast, Ryan shares his journey in real estate investment, with a focus on retail centers in smaller growing markets. He started with a fourplex, gradually progressing to larger deals, partnering with a friend for investment capital. While initially managing properties themselves, they now use third-party management. Due to Covid challenges, Ryan had to adapt and shifted away from multifamily preferring other real estate deals.
During the eviction ban, Ryan faced significant financial losses, leading to immense stress. However, he strategically managed his properties and avoided personal financial losses by giving back one property to the bank as a friendly deed in lieu.
Despite initial concerns about the "retail apocalypse," the retail market has shown strength with robust leasing and occupancy, particularly in power centers with stores like TJ Maxx and Ross Marshalls. Ryan underwrites the cash needs across their portfolio to manage challenges associated with longer vacancy periods.
Now, he is comfortable investing in smaller markets with strong demand and minimal overbuilt supply. His strategy involves acquiring the best-looking assets and collaborating with strong tenants to ensure high occupancy.
Finally, Ryan also remarks about the importance of family and health above work, prioritizing quality time with their young children. He maintains a healthy routine and recently returned from a beach vacation. Balancing work and family life is essential for him, and is committed to taking care of their physical and mental well-being alongside their family responsibilities.
Here are some power takeaways from today’s conversation:
- Retail Market Resilience: Despite initial concerns about the "retail apocalypse," the retail market has shown strength with robust leasing and occupancy in power centers. Rates have held steady, and tenants like TJ Maxx and Ross Marshalls remain stable.
- Real Estate Journey and Growth: The speaker started with a fourplex and progressed to larger deals, partnering with a friend for investment capital. - They shifted away from multifamily due to Covid challenges and now focus on other types of real estate deals.
- Eviction Ban Challenges: The speaker faced significant financial losses and stress during the eviction ban, particularly with inflexible CNBS loans.
- Family and Health Prioritization: The speaker places family and health above work, valuing quality time with their spouse and young children. They maintain a healthy routine for physical and mental well-being.
Episode Highlights:
[00:00 - 01:23] Intro
[01:23 - 02:27] Entrepreneurship, Friendship, and Creative Deal-making: The Inspiring Story of Ryan Bowden
[02:27 - 04:51] From Retail Centers to Real Estate: A Journey of Growth and Resilience
[04:51 - 11:08] Scaling Up: Building a Real Estate Empire
[11:08 - 13:18] Navigating Evictions, Financial Challenges, and Strategic Moves in Multifamily Investing
[13:18 - 16:13] Stress, Anxiety and Uncertainty: Lessons Learned from the Pandemic
[16:13 - 17:44] Exploring the Real Estate Space: Attraction and Concerns
[17:44 - 19:32] Pros and Cons: Beauty and Challenges of Retail Real Estate Investments
[19:32 - 23:21] Insights on the Retail Market: Leasing Strength, Slow-Moving Challenges, and Underwriting Considerations
[23:21 - 27:21] Insights on Real Estate Financing
[27:21 - 31:50] Unconventional Investments: Strategies and Criteria for Success
[31:50 - 33:38] Strategies for Tenant Relationships and Broker Engagement in Retail Real Estate
[33:38 - 37:47] The importance of Clarity, Staying True to Principles, and Pursuing Bigger Deals in the Real Estate Business
[37:47 - 43:43] Anticipating Opportunities Amidst Changing Conditions"
[43:43 - 47:37] Balancing Family and Health: Prioritizing Personal Life in a Successful Career
[47:37 - 49:06] Setting Big Goals and Celebrating Milestones: A Year of Adventure and Family
