Surrey April 2025 Meeting 

Designing for Legacy - How smart design fuels long-term property success - Julian Maurice 

As property investors, we all strive to create a legacy, a portfolio that not only generates strong returns but also stands the test of time. Yet, the reality is stark: only a small percentage of businesses, including those in the property sector, survive beyond a decade. The key question is, how do we ensure our investments are part of that successful minority?

Julian Maurice, with nearly 30 years in the industry, faced this challenge head-on. As a project manager converting properties into HMOs, he witnessed first hand the devastating impact of the property crash. When it came time to invest his own capital, Julian knew he needed a different approach, one that would avoid the pitfalls he had seen and focus on creating a sustainable, profitable future.

Julian meticulously researched and applied strategies designed to build a resilient portfolio. Now, as his own portfolio marks its 10th anniversary, it has exceeded expectations: higher yields, consistent 100% occupancy, minimal management involvement, and ongoing profitability. His results are no accident, they are the outcome of careful planning and smart design choices.

In this presentation, Julian will share the research, strategies, and key insights that have enabled him to achieve long-term success. Attendees will gain actionable tips on how to build a legacy property portfolio, one that not only thrives in the present but also secures a prosperous future.

ALSO... Commercial Property: How to boost your portfolio - Shemima Michelle

Commercial property is a side of property that can come across like a hidden secret… but there are many opportunities and now is a better time than ever to get involved in them!

With this talk, Shemima will bust some of myths around commercial property. Throughout her presentation, she will talk about:  

• Commercial property not being as expensive as you may have thought.
• International investments.
• Is the high street really dead or is it certain types of property?
• Other exits outside of “commercial conversions” that are great options.
• Looking at this investment class to overcome some of the interest rates that are regularly changing.

By the end of the talk you will learn a different side to commercial property. You will look at other ways to increase your valuation and income outside of lengthy and costly refurbishments and you will look at properties through a news lens for the long term.