Creating Mixed use developments through adaptive reuse

[Mathuw Chandler]

I am interested in reusing old/historic buildings in my city to create mixed use developments, retail/commercial on bottom & lofts on top. I would like some advice from anyone who could help.

1) where/how is the best way or website to find potential properties? How would you go about this, who would you talk to?

2) Is this a profitable way to invest, as I see it the income coming from both retail and residential.

3) if anyone has any experience, is this a tough investment to make? could you offer any advice?

4) how would you go about this as a first time investor? i am looking in to older historic buildings which i can create one or two lofts from and potential commercial use on bottom.

I would like to add, that I am educated as a city planner, and one of my main motives is to help create more walkable/vibrant communities, while profit is a reason i am more interested in creating great communities. I am not educated in real estate but believe that my education can be a positive as a real estate developer.