Amid global economic uncertainty and cautious investor sentiment, Ben Habib, a well-known British investor and CEO of First Property Group, has made a bold move: he has increased his stake in commercial real estate assets in the UK and Central Europe. This decision, made in July 2025, is being viewed by analysts as a strong signal of confidence in the long-term fundamentals of the property market — particularly in a period when many institutional players are retreating.
Habib’s move reflects not only a strategic repositioning but also a personal bet on recovery and growth in a sector that has been under pressure for the past several years.
Who is Ben Habib?
Ben Habib is a prominent entrepreneur and founder of First Property Group, an investment and fund management firm focused on real estate across the UK, Poland, and Romania. He is also known for his political activity as a former Member of the European Parliament and a vocal proponent of Brexit.
Habib has built a reputation for investing counter-cyclically — seizing opportunities when markets are depressed and capitalizing on periods of uncertainty.
The Latest Move: Increasing His Stake
According to official documents filed in early July 2025, Habib increased his stake in the First Property Poland Fund by 1.8%, bringing his total ownership to 17.3%. The fund includes a portfolio of office and logistics assets located in Warsaw, Katowice, and Krakow.
While the transaction value has not been disclosed, market analysts estimate the investment to be worth approximately €4–5 million, based on the fund’s current asset valuations.
Comment: “Habib’s move sends a message: while large funds are holding back, savvy investors are doubling down,” says Julian Morris, a London-based independent financial analyst.
Why It Matters
Increasing one’s stake in a real estate vehicle during a period of volatility is not a trivial act. Over the past two years, the UK commercial real estate market has experienced challenges due to rising interest rates, tightened credit conditions, falling asset values, and shifts in workplace behavior, including hybrid and remote work trends.
Despite these headwinds, Habib believes:
- Many assets are currently undervalued;
- The market is approaching or has reached a cyclical bottom;
- Recovery is beginning, particularly in logistics and hybrid office formats;
- Tenant demand is stabilizing, especially in markets with a shortage of quality space.
Direct Words from Habib
In an interview with Property Weekly, Habib said:
“When everyone is looking down, you need to look up. I see opportunities where others see risk. Real estate is a long-term play, and now is the time to position yourself.”
He also confirmed that First Property Group is actively analyzing acquisition opportunities in the UK, Poland, and Romania, including both income-producing assets and development sites.
Strategic Thinking Amid Market Realignment
Habib’s action comes at a time when many real estate funds are focused on portfolio consolidation, disposals of underperforming assets, and risk reduction. This has created a temporary window of opportunity for more aggressive investors.
According to BNP Paribas Real Estate, transaction volume in UK commercial real estate declined by 12% in the first half of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024. However, logistics assets saw an 8% increase, highlighting a strong and resilient segment.
Comment: “Now is not the time for panic. It’s time to identify growth niches. Investors like Habib understand timing and aren’t afraid to act when others hesitate,” says Natalie Lawrence, portfolio manager at RECap Advisors.
Influence on Market Sentiment
Habib’s move is already making waves in investment circles and may influence other stakeholders. In times of uncertainty, market participants look for signals from seasoned investors, especially those with a track record of navigating crises.
His decision may also reignite interest among private investors and boutique funds, many of whom model their behavior on prominent market players.
Geographic Focus
Despite rising geopolitical tensions and economic risks across Europe, Habib remains committed to Central European markets, citing their relative stability and growth potential.
He is particularly eyeing:
- Bratislava and Budapest as emerging office markets;
- Łódź as a strategic logistics hub;
- Northern England and Scotland for industrial and light manufacturing investments.
Capital Growth Potential
One key factor in Habib’s decision is the potential for capital appreciation. According to his analysis, many assets in Poland are trading at 15–20% below peak valuations, creating room for significant upside over the next 3–5 years.
Habib emphasizes the importance of long-term tenants with solid business models as the cornerstone of income stability.
Comment: “We’re not speculating — we’re investing in cash flow, backed by real demand. The capital gains will follow,” he stated.
Conclusion: Strength in Uncertainty
Ben Habib’s increased stake is more than just a financial decision — it’s a vote of confidence in the real estate sector at a time when caution dominates.
His move illustrates a key lesson in investment strategy: fortunes are often made when others are fearful. For Habib, who has built a career on contrarian plays and value investing, this may be another well-timed bet.
As the market begins to stabilize and potentially recover, his actions could serve as a bellwether for a broader return to opportunistic real estate investment in the UK and beyond.
