The FORT Podcast: Dean Adler – Co-Founder @ Lubert-Adler Partners – Current Market Conditions, Private Credit, Pref Equity for the Win, Office, and Winning the Grocery Game
Dean S. Adler is CEO and Co-Founder of Lubert-Adler Partners, L.P., a real estate equity firm with over $9 billion in equity raised. Dean is the Head of the Investment Committee and is responsible for leading the strategic direction of the team. He is also an Executive Committee Member and Research Sponsor for the Zell/Lurie Real Estate Center of The Wharton School and a member of the Board of Directors of the Dominion Real Estate Company.
On this episode, Chris & Dean discuss:
- Analyzing the current market
- How to vet folks looking for private credit
- Thoughts on Office as an asset
- Accidentally building a grocery empire
Listen on:
Spotify
Apple Podcasts
YouTube
Topics:
(00:00:00) Intro
(00:03:16) What are you thinking right now about capital markets?
(00:05:36) Is there another cycle you could compare to today’s environment?
(00:07:29) How do you think banks are thinking about upcoming renewals?
(00:12:56) What needs to happen to normalize the market?
(00:20:08) What are you seeing in fundraising?
(00:21:56) How are you vetting folks looking for a private credit deal?
(00:34:20) Thoughts on the Office Asset class
(00:44:54) Does high levels of institutional investment in office affect the market?
(00:49:13) Is there an asset class today that’s dying but no one knows?
(00:53:56) How did you end up in the grocery business?
(01:04:12) Is it possible to still pursue an opportunity like you did with Albertson’s today?
(01:09:58) Looking back, what do you wish you had focused on more?
Episode Summary
From the outset, Adler’s reflections on pivotal career decisions, challenges faced, and the ever-changing dynamics of the real estate market set the tone for the conversation. His emphasis on adaptability, especially in a market as fluid as real estate, underscores the importance of agility in navigating the industry’s intricacies.
The dialogue soon veers into the territory of real estate investments, particularly those in commercial spaces. Adler’s expertise shines as he elucidates on market strategies, underpinned by rigorous research and comprehensive analysis. A key highlight is the discussion on urban development. The significance of strategic location choices, and their undeniable impact on property value, comes to the forefront. For Adler, the confluence of location, research, and market dynamics is paramount in making informed investment decisions.
In the modern era, technology is inextricably linked with almost every sector, and real estate is no exception. Adler speaks fervently about the transformative role of digital tools, from property management to acquisitions. The consensus is clear: in today’s real estate landscape, a tech-savvy approach isn’t just beneficial—it’s essential.
Broadening the scope, the podcast touches upon the global facets of real estate. Adler delves into the complexities of international investments, highlighting the myriad challenges posed by geopolitical events, trade agreements, and global economic shifts. His message is resonant: in a globalized real estate market, staying agile and informed isn’t just a strategy—it’s a necessity.
No conversation with a veteran like Adler would be complete without delving into personal experiences. His recounting of career highs and lows offers listeners a candid look into the world of real estate. Emphasizing resilience and the invaluable lessons drawn from setbacks, Adler’s anecdotes serve as a testament to his enduring spirit and passion for the industry.
Sustainability, a buzzword in contemporary discourse, finds its rightful place in the conversation. The rising demand for eco-friendly properties and the industry’s increasing alignment with green initiatives points to a future where real estate doesn’t just reflect profitability but also responsibility. Dean Adler’s insights into this shift, both in terms of financial implications and ethical considerations, are enlightening.
As the podcast progresses, future trends and anticipated market shifts come under scrutiny. Adler’s perspective, informed by years of experience, paints a picture of a real estate industry on the cusp of transformative change. His emphasis on continuous learning and the ever-present need for adaptation shines through, offering listeners a roadmap for navigating future challenges.
Relationship-building, a cornerstone of business success, is discussed with fervor. Adler’s strategies, honed over years of networking and partnerships, emphasize the bedrock principles of trust, transparency, and mutual respect. His insights into this realm are not just strategic but also deeply philosophical, touching upon the very ethos of business interactions.
Risk, often the flip side of reward, is a recurring theme. Adler’s nuanced approach to risk assessment, underscored by meticulous planning and due diligence, offers listeners a balanced perspective. His focus on mitigating potential pitfalls, even while maximizing returns, provides a holistic view of investment strategies in the real estate sector.
The FORT is produced by Johnny Podcasts