EP.15 / Babak Ziai on BrandView and Transforming Underutilized Properties
In this episode, I chat with Babak Ziai, the Founder and Managing Principal at BrandView, Inc. His commercial real estate investment management firm focuses on acquiring underutilized properties in exceptional locations and transforming them into high-performing mixed-use developments.
We discuss BrandView's investment strategy, their creative approach to optimizing the value of properties, the importance of building community and collaboration among neighboring businesses, and how Babak identifies opportunities in Los Angeles.
BrandView currently manages a portfolio worth $20 million and aims to reach $100 million under management this year. Their investment strategy focuses on creative repositioning and long-term value creation. We dive into some of BrandView's specific projects, such as their space on Windward Avenue in Venice where they rent out the vacant commercial space for marketing and branding agencies.
We also explore the emerging opportunities in Los Angeles, such as the Culver City Arts District and West Adams, while addressing challenges such as community outreach. We touch on the role of nimbyism in LA, revitalizing areas such as Hollywood and Downtown LA, and Babak's thoughts on what the city can do to make the market more attractive to retailers.
About Babak Ziai
Babak is a commercial estate executive with 20 years of principal experience in over $2.5 billion in joint venture, acquisition and development of commercial and mixed-use properties on behalf of institutional investment funds, capital clients and partnerships. He is the Founder and Managing Principal of BrandView Inc which is active in two areas of business:
BrandView Capital Partners is a commercial real estate investment management firm focused on acquiring underutilized properties in exceptional locations and transforming them into iconic, high performing mixed-use assets.
Its affiliate, BrandView Asset Management is their real assets advisory arm helping asset owners, family offices, and advisors uncover invisible value in commercial real estate through institutional-level investment and asset management.
Topics Covered
Babak’s definition of “exceptional locations” and “invisible value”
BrandView’s investment strategy
How BrandView attracts, communicates, and builds relationships with their investors
The details of BrandView’s Venice property on Windward Avenue and navigating The Coastal Commission
Leasing out vacant commercial spaces to marketing and branding agencies
The experience of teaching at USC’s Master of Real Estate Development program
Where in LA Babak is focusing his energy and his perspective on emerging areas in LA
The reality of nimbyism in LA
What Babak thinks the city can do to make the market more attractive to retailers
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