Welcome to Country Club Conversations, where we delve into the world of real estate with industry leaders. In this episode, we're joined by Bob Walpert, founder and CEO of Walpert Properties and one of the most sought-after real estate minds in St. Louis. With over four decades of experience, Bob shares insights gained from his journey in real estate, from managing lower-grade properties to strategically upgrading to higher-quality assets. His expertise spans navigating financial crises, adapting to rising costs, and understanding the transformative impact of e-commerce on retail spaces.

Throughout the podcast, Bob discusses key themes such as the importance of real estate fundamentals, challenges in managing different property grades, and trends in retail rents. He explores how consumer behavior shifts towards e-commerce have reshaped commercial real estate landscapes, particularly in neighborhood strip centers. Listeners will gain valuable perspectives on navigating real estate cycles, managing commercial properties, and planning for generational continuity in asset management. Whether you're new to real estate investment or a seasoned professional, this episode offers practical insights and strategic advice that are crucial in today's dynamic market.

Connect With Our Guest:

Walpert Properties Website: http://www.walpertproperties.com/

Connect With Our Host:

Twitter: ⁠twitter.com/ItsRajTut

⁠LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/rajtut/

⁠Instagram: ⁠instagram.com/ItsRajTut⁠

TikTok: ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@itsrajtut

Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction and Background of Bob Walpert

01:41 - Importance of Real Estate Fundamentals

04:27 - Bob's Early Real Estate Journey

07:55 - Shifting Focus to Higher Quality Properties

10:25 - Challenges in Managing B and C Grade Properties

13:12 - Impact of the 2008 Financial Crisis

15:31 - Retention and Credit Tenants

17:54 - Real Estate Market Changes and Interest Rates

20:17 - Rising Costs in Real Estate Operations

23:48 - E-commerce Impact on Retail

27:15 - Retail Rent Trends and Tenant Challenges

29:56 - Supply and Demand in Retail Construction

32:34 - Evolution of Shopping Malls

36:08 - Retail Sales Statistics and E-commerce

39:24 - Retail Rents and Lease Structures

41:56 - Commercial Real Estate Outlook

45:27 - Office Buildings and Post-COVID Landscape

48:11 - Future of Neighborhood Strip Centers

51:46 - Avoiding Another 2008 Financial Crisis

54:32 - Real Estate Cycles and Interest Rates

57:19 - Real Estate Portfolio Management

01:00:42 - Generational Planning for Real Estate Assets

01:03:33 - Simplifying Real Estate Management

01:06:01 - Comparison of Retail and Multifamily Real Estate

01:08:22 - Favorite Real Estate Deals and Success Stories

01:11:45 - Importance of Treating People Right

01:14:27 - Closing Thoughts and Final Advice

This podcast is brought to you by Storyboard Living.

If you're looking to sell us a 40+ unit multifamily property in the St. Louis region, or another part of MO/IL, please email deals@storyboardliving.com

Connect with us at our Website: https://storyboardliving.com/

LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/company/storyboard-living/