Stop Obsessing Over Rates—Savvy Investors Are Still Making Deals

by Loren Keim

Stop obsessing over interest rates. Savvy Investors.

With Loren Keim
(Professor. Broker. Spreadsheet Whisperer.)

If you’re still clutching your rate sheet like it’s a security blanket, it’s time for some tough love: the market isn’t waiting for the Fed to send an engraved invitation.

Jeremy Barker, a seasoned real estate investor featured in Business Insider, is flipping the narrative. His advice? Ignore the headlines about interest rates and instead focus on what actually matters: deals that make financial sense.

Crazy concept, right?

💥 High Rates = Lower Competition

Yes, rates are higher. And no, your calculator doesn’t need therapy—just perspective. Elevated borrowing costs have caused many would-be investors to sit on the bench. But here’s the kicker: that leaves more opportunity for those who know what they’re doing.

Barker’s advice is simple: get back to the fundamentals. Stop panicking about the Fed and start underwriting like it’s 2019… but with better hygiene practices.

📊 What Real Investors Focus On:

Occupancy Trends – Is the property performing, or is it a ghost town with a commercial mortgage?
Lease Rates – Rising rents mean rising income. Flat or falling? Time to renegotiate or reposition.
Cap Rates – Not just a number—it’s your return before leverage, aka your pre-mortgage love language.
Cash Flow – Yes, remember this? Net dollars in the bank. The lifeblood of every good deal.

🧠 Fundamentals > Fear

Let’s face it—macroeconomic chaos is always just a headline away. But smart investors aren’t driven by fear. They’re driven by data, diligence, and a healthy dose of realism (and maybe caffeine).

Barker’s philosophy is grounded: Interest rates matter—but they don’t define a deal.

If the numbers work, the location is strong, and the asset is sound, buy it. Don’t wait for perfect market conditions. Those only exist in textbooks and time-travel fantasies.

👇 Ready to Buy When Everyone Else Is Hesitating?

Whether you’re an investor looking for your next smart move—or a broker trying to guide your clients through the fog—this is your moment.

📞 Want help sourcing off-market deals, analyzing opportunities, or navigating this so-called “scary market”?
Let’s talk.

👉 Call me at 610-969-7200 or connect at www.Century21KeimCommercial.com
Because in real estate, the best time to buy is when others are too nervous to.