JF 4080: Feasibility Studies, Niche Innovation and Recession-Resilient Storage ft. Charlie Kao

Amanda and Ash interview Charlie Kao. Charlie shares how growing up as “free labor” on his dad’s properties eventually led him back into commercial real estate, where he’s now best known for self-storage. He explains why he’s cautious on self-storage at a national level, how overbuilding and new alternatives are changing demand, and why he’s leaning into highly localized markets where he has an unfair advantage. Charlie also walks through innovative ways he’s turning basic storage into a true service business, from accepting and placing medical shipments to offering boat/RV add-ons, all while using feasibility studies and data-driven pricing to stay ahead of the competition. Charlie KaoCurrent role: Principal and Asset Manager, Twin Oaks CapitalBased in: Grand Rapids, Michigan Say hi to them at: https://www.twinoakscap.com/ | LinkedIn Alternative Fund IV is closing soon and SMK is giving Best Ever listeners exclusive access to their Founders’ Shares, typically offered only to early investors. Visit smkcap.com/bec to learn more and download the full fund summary. Join the Best Ever Community  The Best Ever Community is live and growing - and we want serious commercial real estate investors like you inside. It’s free to join, but you must apply and meet the criteria.  Connect with top operators, LPs, GPs, and more, get real insights, and be part of a curated network built to help you grow. Apply now at ⁠www.bestevercommunity.com⁠ Podcast production done by ⁠Outlier Audio⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices