Commercial real estate is about far more than buying and leasing properties. It is about understanding businesses, identifying opportunities and helping entrepreneurs make decisions that support long-term growth. For Huzaimi Abdullah, better known as Zai, every property is more than just a space. It is a foundation for someone’s business journey and future success.
After transitioning from a technical career into real estate, Huzaimi found his passion in the commercial and industrial property sector. Today, he works closely with business owners, investors and landlords, helping them navigate one of the most important decisions any business can make: choosing the right location.
Can you share your career journey and what led you to specialise in commercial real estate?
I started my career in a technical role after completing my diploma. Later, I obtained both an insurance licence and a real estate salesperson (RES) licence. However, I soon discovered that I could only hold one licence, so after careful consideration, I chose to pursue a career in property.
I initially focused on HDB transactions in Sengkang and Rivervale, where my team and I carried out roadshows and door-to-door marketing. During that time, I became close to an experienced agent who specialised in industrial properties. Her guidance and mentorship introduced me to the commercial real estate sector and sparked my interest in the industry.
After working alongside her and her partner in Jurong for a few months, I ventured out on my own, focusing on commercial offices around Peninsula Plaza, The Adelphi and Excelsior Shopping Centre. That marked the beginning of my journey in commercial real estate.
What were some of the biggest challenges you faced during your early years in the industry?
One of the biggest challenges was earning trust. As a new agent working in the industrial property sector, some landlords and property owners were initially hesitant to engage with me.
Fortunately, I was guided by two experienced mentors who helped me build credibility and confidence. Their support played a significant role in shaping my career.
Another challenge was dealing with seasoned business owners and investors. In the early years, it was not easy to gain their confidence, but networking through BNI and building relationships gradually helped me overcome those barriers.
As mentioned, you have interacted with business owners across many industries. What have these conversations taught you about entrepreneurship?
Working with landlords, business owners and investors has shown me that entrepreneurship is far from easy.
During COVID-19 and other difficult periods, I saw businesses close, owners struggle with bankruptcy and tenants unable to pay rent. These experiences taught me that success requires resilience, persistence and the ability to adapt.
At the same time, many of these business owners have shared valuable life lessons and practical advice with me. Being surrounded by entrepreneurs has shaped both my career and my personal outlook.
Many entrepreneurs focus heavily on products and marketing. Why is choosing the right business location equally important?
Location is especially important for retail, F&B and service businesses because every area attracts a different customer profile.
For example, I helped a laundry franchise from Kuala Lumpur secure outlets in Bukit Timah, East Coast and Orchard because those locations matched their target customers and offered convenient roadside access for quick drop-offs.
However, choosing the right location is not just about visibility. Rental costs must also make commercial sense. A cheaper rental is not always better, and an expensive location may not be sustainable if it significantly reduces profit margins.
What are some common mistakes business owners make when selecting a commercial space?
One common mistake is choosing a space without understanding its permitted use.
For example, a supermarket operator rented an industrial ground-floor unit without realising retail operations were not allowed. After operating for several months, they were instructed to vacate the premises and reportedly suffered losses of around half a million dollars.
Another mistake is renting more space than necessary. When business slows down, oversized premises become costly and inefficient. Proper planning and due diligence are essential before signing any lease.
What legacy would you like to leave through your work?
I work with first, second and even third-generation property owners, and I hope the advice I provide helps them build long-term wealth through commercial real estate.
Whether it is acquiring a shophouse or an industrial property for business use, I want those assets to become thriving businesses that can be passed on to future generations.
What is your vision for Singapore in the next five years?
I hope Singapore creates a more balanced environment for business operators.
Many retail businesses are facing rising rental, food and operating costs, while increasing numbers of commercial units remain vacant. At the same time, many landlords have strong financial positions and can afford to leave their properties empty.
I hope greater support can be provided to struggling retail operators so that businesses have a fairer opportunity to survive and grow in an increasingly challenging market.
If you could have a superpower for one day, what would it be and why?
I would choose the ability to see into the future.
During COVID-19, commercial property prices and rents fell sharply, and many investors hesitated because nobody knew how the market would recover. Some shophouses that sold for around $4 million to $4.5 million are now worth almost double.
If I could predict the future, I would know exactly when to invest and identify opportunities before the rest of the market.
Connect with Huzaimi: ZaiCommercial, Facebook and Instagram.
