What makes one investment outperform the rest?

In this episode, Max Scott, an award-winning property investor behind more than £100 million in deals, breaks down why he now specialises in FRI leases and why he believes property remains the strongest asset class available today.

From the impact of the Renters’ Rights Act to pension funds targeting long leases, this conversation goes deep into commercial property strategy, secure income, and wealth creation.

What is an FRI lease and why investors want them

A fully repairing and insuring (FRI) lease sits at the commercial end of the property spectrum. In simple terms, the tenant covers the repair, maintenance and insurance costs, significantly reducing landlord liability.

Max explains why this structure creates a powerful investment model:

• Minimal ongoing costs for the landlord
• Long-term secure income
• Reduced operational risk
• Often CPI-linked rent increases

In many cases, these leases run for 20 years. When paired with specialist tenants funded for the long term, investors benefit from durable, predictable income streams.

How the Renters’ Rights Act impacts commercial investors

While the Renters’ Rights Act has reshaped parts of the residential market, commercial property operates differently. Max outlines why commercial investors, particularly those using long FRI leases, face a different risk profile compared to traditional buy-to-let landlords.

For investors concerned about legislative change, understanding this distinction is critical.

Why pension funds are targeting 20-year eases

One of the most interesting parts of the discussion is why pension funds are pursuing long FRI lease deals.

The reason is simple:

• Secure income
• CPI-linked growth
• Institutional-grade tenants
• Strong exit demand

When large funds are buying these assets, it creates a defined exit strategy for smaller investors. If structured correctly, your buyer may already be waiting.

Will lenders back 20-year commercial leases?

A key question for many investors is finance.

Max explains how lenders assess long-term commercial leases and why secure, specialist tenants with strong covenant strength can improve funding options. When the lease structure is robust, finance becomes a strategic tool rather than a barrier.

The 5 components that make property the best asset class

The bigger debate in this episode asks:

Is property the best asset class to invest in?

Max argues that it is, because no other asset class has all five fundamental forces working simultaneously.

While stocks, bonds and commodities each offer advantages, property combines:

• Income
• Capital growth
• Leverage
• Stability
• Compounding

According to Max, it’s this combination, not just one element, that makes property uniquely powerful.

How to maximise all five for wealth creation

Not every investor is in the same position.

If you have significant capital but limited time, your strategy will differ from someone with time but limited funds. Max explains how to tailor your investment approach based on your circumstances and why clarity on your end goal is essential.

His advice is simple but powerful:

Begin with the end in mind. Know where you’re going, how you’ll get there, and what comes next once you arrive.

Why FRI Leases are gaining popularity

So why aren’t more investors focusing on FRI lease commercial property?

The answer lies in education and confidence. Commercial deals require deeper understanding, but for those willing to learn the mechanics, the reward is stable, long-term, inflation-linked income with reduced management intensity.

For investors seeking scale without constant operational headaches, this model is increasingly attractive.

Watch the full episode

If you’re curious about FRI leases or want to hear more about the 5 components that make property the best asset class to invest in, head over to our YouTube and give the episode a watch.