From Distressed to Dynamic: Rafik Moore on Transforming Commercial Real Estate

This episode Saul sits down with Rafik Moore, CEO of BRAIT Capital and the visionary behind the Value-Add Network, to explore how he transforms forgotten properties into high-yielding assets. Rafik breaks down his “rough-diamond” philosophy—buying well-located buildings the market has written off, then unlocking hidden value through adaptive reuse, aggressive leasing, and disciplined budgeting. From converting vacant big-box stores into fully leased small-bay industrial hubs to re-imagining single-story office parks as co-working and flex space, Rafik shows why the Midwest’s overlooked real estate is his favorite hunting ground.

You’ll hear:

• The three ingredients of a true “deal”—replacement-cost discounts, functional obsolescence you can fix, and compelling exit cap-rate spreads.

• Why “cash-flow first” beats market speculation, and how soaring construction costs have reshaped his underwriting.

• Lessons from a $4.5 M Ohio mall that’s on its way to a $30 M valuation—and the discipline it took to weather years of zero distributions.

• The power of community: how Rafik’s Value-Add Network is grooming 100 investors to build $100 M portfolios by sharing capital, confidence, and contacts.

Rafik also opens up about the biggest risk that paid off (both in business and life), the importance of mentors, and the mindset shift that turns property problems into generational wealth. If you’re itching to scale from flips to eight-figure commercial deals—or just need a shot of CRE inspiration—this episode is pure fuel.