Creative financing and creative investing are two different things, but having a creative team and effective research can be even more important. The status of the real estate market in many areas calls for finding any and every possible advantage to be “first in” on a great opportunity.
Suppose you have a multi-story commercial building for sale, or are looking to acquire one. Note that we did not say “office building” or “multi-family building”. We did not specify because an investor or developer could consider both within the same opportunity. It is possible in some locations, if you know where to look.
The owner of a 100+ year old building was able to file for a “Commercial Alteration Permit”, granting the ability to continue converting what was used for years as an office building to more floors with residential units. Several entire floors have already been converted, and now more will be as office leases expire or space remains vacant on more upper floors. The below linked article provides the details of the building in Milwaukee.
Think of the possibilities for presenting such an opportunity. If seeking investors or funding, you have possibilities for a renovation or rehab loan, along with positioning as an office building OR an apartment building. These different loan types offer different conditions, potentially enabling multiple lenders and sources to compete and analyze the opportunity in their own way. Potential tenants are getting new construction along with the charm of being able to reside in an historic building.
A creative investor or funding partner sees opportunities like this one, which can go in several directions and allows for greater flexibility. However, the creative part is very rarely found in a marketing package. It starts with concepts and research, and often the will to make it a realistic possibility.
These success stories often start through collaboration with people that know how to make them happen, no matter what their level of participation. If you haven’t already, connect with us, and we can help make you “first in” on your next major opportunity!
https://urbanmilwaukee.com/2026/05/27/office-to-housing-conversion-planned-for-third-ward-building/
