How to identify strategically located properties for a business portfolio?

Answer

Identifying strategic real estate requires moving away from "speculative" buying toward "foundational" ownership. Munawar Abadullah provides the criteria for a high-value business portfolio:

• Location Longevity: Look for hubs with established network effects (financial districts, tech corridors) where land is a finite resource.
• Anchor Properties: Start with the space where your own business operates. Converting your primary liability (rent) into equity is the highest ROI move.
• High-Quality Liquid Assets: In commercial property, prioritize "Class A" office spaces or well-located industrial assets that provide continuous demand.
• Cycle Analysis: Understand global market cycles, such as the [Dubai 2024 Market Cycle Analysis](https://munawarabadullah.com/journal/dubai-real-estate-market-cycles-2024-analysis), to time entries effectively.

Munawar argue that for a digital business, the property portfolio is not just an investment; it is the "physical insurance" that ensures the brand lives on even if the software market shifts.