2025
Retail Asset Management Capability Statement
Maximising occupancy, tenant satisfaction, property condition and facilitating the right tenant mix
Connected. Experienced.
Reliable, proactive and transparent
Experienced. transparent management services.
01 Why Commercial Collective?
At Commercial Collective, we pride ourselves on our proactive approach to retail asset management. Our systemised processes are designed to maximise occupancy, tenant satisfaction, and the overall success of your property. Backed by a transparent management system, we focus on fostering long-term and trustworthy relationships with our clients and their tenants.
Our experienced property management team has been hand-selected for their detailed knowledge of Newcastle, the Greater Hunter region and beyond, combined with their extensive asset management experience. Operating locally, we manage all asset management functions in-house, ensuring seamless, accurate, and swift outcomes for your property.
We take a holistic approach, providing you with tailored advice that draws on the expertise of our dedicated retail and leasing teams. Our resources are strategically directed to ensure your retail asset achieves optimal tenant mix and leasing outcomes in the shortest possible timeframe. Additionally, we have an experienced, approachable, and proactive property management team who will work tirelessly to ensure your satisfaction.
Premium service
Commercial Collective’s commitment to premium customer service is evident in the long-standing relationships we hold with clients across the Hunter region, Australia, and abroad. Our focus on tenant satisfaction and property excellence ensures your retail asset remains competitive in an evolving retail landscape.
Partnering with experts
Our proactive property managers, supported by the region’s leading leasing team, are ranked number one in Newcastle and the Hunter region. This expertise, combined with our comprehensive marketing strategies, enables us to guide you in maximising the value of your retail asset. From targeted marketing campaigns to strategic leasing advice, we aim to reduce
vacancy periods, secure optimal rental rates, and curate the ideal tenant mix to drive the success of your retail asset.
Genuinely caring about the outcome
We are proud to take a proactive approach to managing retail assets, genuinely caring about long-term outcomes rather than simply focusing on transactions. From targeted leasing strategies to ongoing tenant support, we deliver advice and solutions that align with your goals. This client-focused approach has earned us the trust of referral and repeat clients throughout the region.
02
Our Services
We cover a wide range of services that ensure efficient operation of your retail asset, maximise rental income, minimise vacancies, and maintain the value of your investment. Our team’s extensive knowledge of local market conditions, combined with our dedicated retail leasing expertise, allows us to effectively market your property, attract high-quality tenants, and curate the ideal tenant mix to support long-term success. Our service includes:
Transition Management and Establishment
Administration
» Risk identification
» Tenant relationship
» Building audit
» Review of service contracts
» Lease audit
» Arrears review
» Outgoings budget review
» Financial data input into commercial Property management system
» Rental collection
» Arrears management
» Disbursement of collections
» Outgoings payments
» Lease covenants monitoring
» Rent reviews
» Lease renewals
» Reconciliations and outgoings budgets
» Assignment of lease
» Re-leasing of property
» Owner financial reporting
Physical Administration
» Building services
» Fire safety services
» Lift services
» Building repairs & maintenance
» Regular property inspections
» Tenant make-good administration
Leasing Services
Across Australia, our extensive network of connections and business relationships offers a significant advantage to our clients when leasing for major retailers, mini-majors, and specialty retailers. We provide tailored services to private investors, institutions, corporate clients, and developers, having successfully managed projects and centres for key clients such as Government Property NSW, The City of Newcastle, The City of Lake Macquarie, Roads & Maritime Services and many private clients But don’t just take our word for it, feel free to contact any or all of the client contacts below who can provide a reference to our service and professionalism:
» Stewart Kenworthy 0414 752 035
» Juan Gonzalez 0415 782 839
» Graham Burns 0414 343 255
» Howard Laughton 0418 216 688
» Richard Conroy 0403 143 563
Commercial and industrial property owner
Commercial and industrial property owner
Commercial and industrial property owner
Commercial property owner
Industrial property owner
03 Our Platform
Owner Portal
Our Owner Portal offers a sophisticated solution for landlords and joint venture (JV) partners seeking enhanced transparency and streamlined property portfolio management. Through the owner portal, you can seamlessly navigate a user-friendly interface, complete with integrated Google Maps, providing a centralised hub for comprehensive portfolio data.
Gain complimentary access to our Owner Portal Basic, designed to empower landlords, JV partners, and remote business associates with critical insights into selected properties within the broader portfolio. For those seeking advanced analytics and real-time data, consider upgrading to Owner Portal Plus for a nominal fee of $12 per month. This will unlock a suite of powerful tools, including detailed reports on arrears, tenancy schedules, unpaid invoices, property balances, cash books, and activity reports.
Digital property management is an efficient solution that can be conveniently accessed through our portal. Landlords can receive end-of-month reports online using our user-friendly Publish to Portal format. By securely publishing lease documents, floor plans, bank guarantees, and management agreements directly to the Owner Portal, administrative tasks can be streamlined, and operational efficiency can be enhanced with a single click. This process reduces the need for manual tasks, thus saving time and reducing errors. Our digital portal is designed to ensure that information is transmitted securely, and data is kept confidential. With our portal access, landlords can enjoy the benefits of an efficient and user-friendly platform that enhances their experience.
Tenant Portal
Our Tenant Portal transforms the dynamic between property managers and tenants, making communication more straightforward and effective. This Tenant Portal removes the hassle of missed calls and extensive email exchanges by enabling tenants to address their needs independently, anytime. The Tenant Portal is designed to simplify and enhance the way you interact with your tenancy.
Key Features
» 24/7 Online Access: Tenants can log into the portal at their convenience, ensuring they can manage their rental needs around the clock.
» Work Request Submission: With an easy-to-use interface, tenants can submit maintenance requests and attach photos or videos for detailed reporting.
» Account Review: Tenants can view their rental account statuses, including lease terms, current charges, and outstanding balances.
» Document Access: Essential documents, such as lease agreements, are available for tenant review whenever needed.
Key Benefits
» Time Efficiency: The Tenant Portal reduces the time spent on tenant communications without impacting the service level, allowing greater time for proactivity on your property management.
» Workflow Improvement: The portal simplifies property management by providing timely access to essential information and real-time insights into your property.
» Self-Service: The portal enables tenants to resolve issues independently, enhancing satisfaction while reducing management intervention.
04 Our Capability
Our team brings a depth of experience from overseeing complex, large-scale retail assets in major capital cities, equipping us with the strategic insights necessary to manage some of region’s most prominent retail assets. Some examples locally include:
‘Mayfield East Village’ 77 Maitland Road, Mayfield
Mayfield East Village comprises anchor tenants Coles and Coles Liquor, in addition to Barber Industries, 12 Round Fitness, Mitamiya Sushi Café, and CTC. The property features underground parking, lift access, and dual street frontage from both Maitland Road and Havelock Street.
Owner Referee: Paul Chisholm, 0418 493 743
‘Medowie Retail’ 12 Peppertree Road, Medowie
Medowie Retail features a dynamic mix of tenants, including Bradbery Fitness, Little Beginnings Learning Centre, Chemist Discount Centre, and Aurora Nail Salon. The property offers a newly constructed build with easy access, ample parking, and has strategic positioning in Medowie.
Owner Referee: Kathleen Moran, 0427 390 914
‘Home & Life’ 5 Mustang Drive, Rutherford
This is a high-traffic retail centre located just off the New England Highway, offering excellent visibility for anchor tenants Amart Furniture, Nick Scali, Anaconda, Lounge Plus, and HV Social. The centre is surrounded by multiple developments, enhancing its growth potential.
Owner Referee: Jeff Taitz, 0403 444 040
‘Gillieston Heights’ 3 Redwood Drive, Gillieston Heights
Positioned off Cessnock Road, the main route linking Kurri Kurri and Maitland, Gilliseston Heights is home to a diverse tenant mix, including PHP Gillieston, Tillys Play & Education Centre, Sherwood Gillieston Heights, Spin Laundry Lounge, LR Trading, Domino’s Pizza, and Pandaroo Kitchen.
Owner Referee: Kathleen Moran, 0427 390 914
‘The Forum’ 240-244 Pacific Highway, Charlestown
The Forum is a premier commercial complex strategically located at the corner of the Pacific Highway and Charlestown Road in Charlestown. This prominent site features over 10 tenants, including high-profile anchors such as Hoyts Cinema, Healthcare Australia, and Oracle Advisory Group, offering excellent visibility and a strong tenant mix.
Owner Referee: Peter Bale, 0412 692 522
Redefining excellence in retail asset management
Our key focus areas
Through our extensive experience and understanding of client priorities, we have developed a clear focus on four key areas in retail asset management: maximising occupancy, tenant satisfaction, property condition, and the right tenant mix. These priorities are shaped by our team’s experience working with large shopping centres and are proven to drive operational efficiency and financial success, delivering lasting value for both owners and tenants.
Maximising Occupancy
We take a proactive approach to securing and retaining tenants, beginning with comprehensive due diligence, including tenant history checks and asset and liability assessments. By leveraging our extensive database, targeted marketing strategies, and strong industry relationships, we ensure high occupancy rates while reducing vacancy periods to optimise rental income
Tenant Satisfaction
Happy tenants are the foundation of a thriving asset. We focus on fostering long-term relationships by understanding tenant needs, delivering responsive support, and creating an environment that encourages their success. By prioritising satisfaction, we aim to improve tenant retention and enhance the overall performance of the centre.
Property Condition
A well-maintained retail asset is essential for tenant satisfaction and customer attraction. Through regular inspections, preventative maintenance programs, and swift issue resolution, we ensure all properties under our management are presented in excellent condition. This not only elevates the customer experience but also safeguards the long-term value of the asset.
Right Tenant Mix
A strategic tenant mix is critical to creating a vibrant, appealing shopping environment. We carefully balance anchor tenants, mini-majors, and specialty retailers to ensure complementary offerings that drive foot traffic and encourage repeat visits. Our approach incorporates market insights, lifestyle trends, and a focus on diversity to craft a mix that enhances the assets competitiveness and appeal.
Our point of difference
» We focus on unlocking rental uplift at lease renewals, ensuring your retail asset achieves its full income potential through strategic tenant negotiations and market-aligned outcomes.
» We provide portfolio intelligence and strategic insights, offering recommendations that optimise tenant mix, drive foot traffic, and enhance the long-term value of your retail assets.
» We are locally owned and operated, committed to serving the community by unlocking growth and prosperity through tailored retail management services.
» We give back – most recently, we supported a Collective Growth grant to empower local business owners and foster innovation in the region.
» We are independent – free from corporate structures, we offer nimble, customised, and adaptable solutions that align with your retail asset’s unique needs.
» We make decisions and act decisively, implementing effective strategies without unnecessary delays or restrictions.
» We have a proven track record in retail management, underpinned by a deep understanding of shopping centre dynamics and deliverables.
Commercial Collective's decision to be independent of other brands was a direct result of the deeply connected relationships with leading agents of these major brands. Had we joined forces, we would not have been able to successfully harness the full power of this entire network, instead being relegated to dealing with the people in that one brand only. To have true national and international connectivity, we recognised that independence was the key and in turn, has become our point of difference in the industry.
It is often a misconception that the major brands will highlight your property through their database across all their office locations. This is a myth. Having worked at major brands previously, we know for a fact they do not share their geographical or sector specific databases within their network. Commercial Collective have curated comprehensive databases and systems to sell and lease property across Newcastle, the Hunter Region and regional NSW. It is comprised of active market participants, leaders and influencers from across the country and the globe. Commercial Collective's national and international reach can be summarised in two words; Connected. Experienced.
Absolutely sensational experience with the team at Commercial Collective, they are prompt, professional and a pleasure to deal with. Always in contact, nothing was too much trouble. Extremely friendly staff. Will have no trouble recommending them to someone else.
Private Owner Kent Parkes
05 Operational Methodology
Day 0 - 30
ASSET AUDIT
Implementation
» Perform an asset audit to ensure that all properties are properly documented, including title deeds, lease agreements, and any other relevant documentation. Identify any gaps or discrepancies and provide written report.
Day 7 - 14
Day 0 - 30
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULES
Implementation
» Where required, implement programmed preventive maintenance schedules that address the needs of each property.
FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT
Implementation
» Establish financial processes & calendar invoicing, AP, AR, forecasting, and
MANAGEMENT PROCESSES
financial management calendar that include AR, budgeting, reporting.
Day 7 - 28
PERFORMANCE METRICS
Implementation
» Establish the contract performance metrics. Included in the metrics are property occupancy rates, rent collection rates, arrears, accounts lease/licence expiry dates and maintenance response times.
Day 14 - 21
COMMUNICATION
Implementation
» Implement communication to tenants & stakeholders so they are informed about any changes to property management services.
» Complete upload of expense invoices
» PM's approve creditor payments
» Creditor payment run
» PM’s complete owner reporting & issue
» Distribute rent review reports
» PM's approve rent reviews & advise finance
» Raise rent up
» PM's approve billings and rental increases
» Complete upload of expense invoices
» PM’s approve creditor payments
» Creditor payment run
» Mid-month owner disbursements
» Finance to process rent reviews
» Complete upload expense invoices
» PM’s approve creditor payments
» Creditor payment run
» Rent invoices raised and issued (automated)
The above summary highlights the high-level activities that have been clearly aligned to specific roles, with handover points clearly identified.
WEEK 4 ACTIVITIES
» Apply credits to rent invoices
» Complete upload of expense invoices
» PM's approve creditor payments
» Creditor payment run
» Final creditor payment run
WEEK 5 ACTIVITIES
» PM's commence accruals
» Complete upload of expense invoices
» PM’s approve creditor payments
» Creditor payment run
» End-of-Month run, final credit payments, owner disbursements, close off, issue & save reports
» End-of-Month run, owner disbursements, close off & save reports
» Receipt last day & Bank reconciliation
ASSET MANAGEMENT DUTIES
Our Asset Management team possess a diverse range of skills, which enables them to undertake a multitude of activities tailored to the specific needs of their property portfolio, tenants, and objectives. The following are examples of some of the common duties:
Maintenance and repairs
Regular inspections, upkeep and repairs of the buildings, fixtures and equipment.
Tenant relations
Addressing tenant concerns and ensuring their satisfaction, handling lease renewals and rent increases.
Rent collection and accounting
Collecting rent payments, tracking expenses, generating financial reports and maintaining accurate accounting records.
Lease management
Ensuring all leases are current and adhered to, tracking lease expirations and negotiating new lease agreements.
Budgeting and financial planning
Developing and implementing budgets, forecasting revenue and expenses, and working with stakeholders to ensure financial goals are met.
Marketing and tenant acquisition
Promoting vacant units, screening and selecting new tenants, and handling lease signing and move-ins.
Risk management and insurance
Managing insurance policies, conducting risk assessments and implementing safety procedures to minimise liability.
Energy and sustainability management
Implementing energy efficiency measures, managing utilities and waste disposal, and promoting sustainability initiatives.
Property inspections and compliance
Ensuring the buildings comply with all applicable regulations, codes, and laws, and conducting regular inspections to identify potential issues
Capital improvements
Developing and implementing plans for major upgrades and renovations, such as upgrades or building expansions.
Commercial Collective conducts all finance functions from our Newcastle headquarters, without resorting to the outsourcing of operations to multiple locations or virtual offices overseas. By retaining control of all finance functions in-house, we are able to maintain a high degree of visibility and oversight over the entire financial process, ensuring that our clients receive the most accurate and reliable financial reporting possible.
“I have developed, leased and sold industrial assets for 30 years in the Newcastle Region. I have recently transitioned 90% of our property portfolio of industrial assets to Commercial Collective from a competing corporate real estate agency as we have found Byrne Tran, Melinda McDonald and the team at Commercial Collective to provide a more personalised approach to the management and leasing of our assets by understanding objectives and helping achieve them. Their knowledge, experience, property advice and holistic approach is first class.”
Juan Gonzalez | Private Owner
“I worked with Kim Newton and the team at Commercial Collective to manage and sell a complex, multi-tenanted asset. Their expert management helped position the asset for sale, and their national sales and marketing strategy was spot on. They provided professional service and achieved an excellent result, with the property selling for $31 million. I appreciated their expertise, proactive approach, and clear guidance throughout the entire process. I highly recommend them to anyone seeking effective and professional service.”
John Cosco | Private Owner
“Melinda’s great strengths are her thorough knowledge of commercial property management, she is prompt and thorough with a high attention to detail and keeps me well informed of any matters that arise. I was very impressed with the audit process carried out on our assets during the transition from the previous managing agent, this included building and lease audit to ensure our asset was managed at it’s optimum moving forward and any outstanding items or issues discovered were quickly resolved. As a result, I am relaxed and confident that our properties are in good hands. I have no hesitation in recommending Melinda and the team at Commercial Collective.”
Stewart
Kenworthy | SNK Group
“I’ve been incredibly impressed with working collaboratively with Ryan Lippiatt and Melinda McDonald on our lease renegotiations that have successfully concluded today. Melinda was always on the button with all facets of the asset. Her timely review provided me with outstanding insight (that I’ve not previously had). It has also set us up to initiate a proactive maintenance programme so that we can make the most of the asset, rather than just “fix things” reactively. This will no doubt add significant value to this asset moving forward.”
Robert Nachum | Minalysis
OUR EXPERIENCED TEAM
Michelle Thomas Head of Asset Management
20+ years of Commercial, Industrial and Bulky Retail experience
Melinda McDonald Senior Asset Manager
20+ years of Commercial, Retail and Industrial
Deb Warwick Senior Asset Manager
30+ years of Commercial and Bulky Retail experience
Melanie Creek Asset Management
20+ years of Government, Commercial and Transport experience
Bree Booth Trust Account Manager Asset Management
25+ years of financial accounting and Commercial experience
CEO
15+ years property expertise, leading super funds, and managed
Lisbeth Herdman Asset Management
19+ years of NSW Residential
20+ years of Administration and experience Jolene Administration Asset Management
Dane Crawford
expertise, working with funds, private developers property funds Crawford CEO
Shane Barr State Executive Director | Asset Management
20+ years of Commercial, Industrial and Bulky Retail experience
NSW Health and experience Herdman Management
Tony Compton Asset Management
15+ years of Commercial, Industrial and Bulky Retail experience
Penny Agius Asset Management
25+ years of Commercial, Industrial and Bulky Retail experience
Kim Newton Asset Manager
3+ years of Commercial, Industrial, Residential and Bulky Retail experience
Jolene Irwin Administration Manager Management
of Finance, and Commercial experience
Ella Latham Administration Assistant Asset Management
3+ years of Commercial, Industrial and Bulky Retail experience
Commercial Collective currently 450 commercial assets with $70 million in annual billings. property managers provide of property and asset management
currently manages over with 850 tenants and over billings. Our team of over 10 provide a comprehensive range management services.
07 Reach and Connectivity
With a diverse portfolio spanning more than 450 commercial assets across New South Wales, Commercial Collective’s Asset Management services is deeply rooted in key markets such as Sydney, Gosford, Ballina, and the Hunter region. Our dedicated team of over 10 property managers is passionately committed to delivering personalised, hands-on service to each client.
Recognising the importance of local knowledge and networks, our reach extends extensively to ensure comprehensive coverage. Whether you’re a property owner in the heart of Sydney or a developer in the Hunter Valley, our primary aim remains unwavering: to optimise the value of your asset through meticulous management and strategic guidance.
At Commercial Collective, our unwavering commitment to clients is reflected in our core values of Synergy, Integrity, and Innovation. We not only uphold our promises with genuine intentions but also collaborate to discover innovative and improved methods of supporting our clients.
DISCLAIMER
This document has been prepared by Commercial Collective using information provided to it for the transaction contemplated. Any statement or opinion made by Commercial Collective in this document is not based on any actual or implied knowledge or consideration of the investment objectives, financial situation, legal or taxation position or any other particular needs or requirements of the recipients of this document. All parties must make their own independent assessment and seek professional advice for their specific circumstances.
Neither Commercial Collective, its directors, employees, agents and related entities (Commercial Collective Entities) make any recommendation about the transaction or potential returns or use of the property. The Commercial Collective Entities do not warrant the completeness or accuracy of the information contained in this document or that it is not misleading or not likely to be misleading or deceptive.
None of the Commercial Collective Entities will be liable (whether at law, in equity or otherwise) in any circumstances for any statement made or anything contained in or arising out of the information in this document including any errors, misrepresentation or omissions. Commercial Collective disclaims all responsibility for any loss or damage caused by reliance by any person on this document or any representation, warranty or statement made by or on behalf of any of the Commercial Collective Entities.
This document is confidential and provided for the sole use of persons given it directly by Commercial Collective. It may not be reproduced, disclosed or circulated to any other person without the express written consent of Commercial Collective.
ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF COUNTRY
Commercial Collective pay our respects to the traditional owners, their elders past and present and value their care and custodianships of these lands. Commercial Collective is a proud Newcastle company built on the lands of the Awabakal & Worimi people.