053: Robert Martin of Hunter Farmer | Commercial NSW

“Yield is a great thing and it certainly assists with cash flow, but it should never be your sole focus.”Commercial property can offer strong cash flow and compelling opportunities, but Robert Martin says investors need to look well beyond the headline yield. With nearly 12 years in the buyers agent space, Robert joins Chris to unpack how he assesses commercial opportunities across Australia, including his current focus on Perth and Southeast Queensland.From flood overlays and unapproved building works to zoning, tenant use and vacancy risk, Robert shares the due diligence traps that can turn a promising commercial deal into a costly mistake. He also explains why diversified markets and versatile assets matter, where value starts to emerge across different price points, and how rental reversion can create upside when the numbers stack up.As co-founder of Hunter Farmer, Robert brings a client-first approach shaped by years of navigating commercial property deals. This episode is a practical look at how investors can assess risk, recognise genuine opportunity and know when the smartest move is to walk away.Episode Highlights01:24 – Meet Commercial Property Expert Robert Martin02:00 – Robert’s Path Into Commercial Property03:34 – Navigating the Commercial Property Minefield05:00 – Why Buyers Agents Must Put Clients First06:39 – When to Walk Away From a Commercial Deal09:32 – How Local Knowledge Shapes Commercial Deals13:00 – Look Beyond Yield When Choosing a Market16:46 – Comparing Risk Across Commercial Asset Types18:25 – Where Value Emerges at Different Price Points21:39 – The Risk and Reward of Rental Reversion22:54 – The Costs Commercial Investors Can Overlook24:25 – When Poor Due Diligence Gets Expensive28:49 – How One Asset Reached a 14% Net Return32:46 – Why Owner Occupiers Are Driving Up Prices34:00 – High Demand, Tight Supply in Commercial36:06 – Why Commercial Experience Matters38:09 – Go Into Commercial Property PreparedAbout the GuestRobert Martin is the co-founder of Hunter Farmer and an experienced commercial buyers agent with more than a decade in the industry. Having been involved in over 2,000 property deals across Australia, Robert brings extensive experience in assessing commercial opportunities, navigating due diligence and managing investment risk.His expertise spans commercial markets across Australia, with Hunter Farmer currently focused heavily on Perth and Southeast Queensland. Robert’s approach looks beyond headline yield, considering factors such as market diversity, tenant security, vacancy risk, asset versatility and long-term growth potential.At Hunter Farmer, Robert champions a client-first approach built around transparency, trust and quality advice. His experience gives investors a practical perspective on what makes a strong commercial asset — and, just as importantly, when to walk away from a deal.Connect with RobertRobert’s LinkedInHunter Farmer (Website)Hunter Farmer (Facebook)Hunter Farmer (LinkedIn)Work with Chris (Alcove)Business Webpage Link - https://alcove.com.auEmail - [email protected] Alcove at: (1300 252683)Socials:LinkedIn (Alcove) - https://www.linkedin.com/company/alcovembLinkedIn (Chris) - https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopherbates/Instagram (Chris) - https://www.instagram.com/chrisbates_alcove/🗓️Book a chat with us!🗓️Follow us on our socials!YouTubeLinkedInInstagramTikTokEnjoyed the podcast? Don't miss out on what's yet to come! Hit that subscription button, spread the word, and join us for more insightful discussions in real estate. Your journey starts now!Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@street-secretsSubscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/street-secrets/id1837331268Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7sBYmpcuxCYwceQiHdBnaq?si=2Gdl60HRRWCBoUlcBHB0nAThe information provided in this podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be relied upon as financial, investment, or credit advice. It does not take into account your personal objectives, financial situation, or needs. You should consider the appropriateness of the information to your circumstances and seek advice from a licensed financial adviser, mortgage broker, or other qualified professional before making any decision. Canopy Private Pty Ltd holds Australian Credit Licence 558709.