Commercial real estate is property used for business-related purposes rather than as a living space. It includes everything from office buildings occupied by white-collar workers to single-tenant retail structures such as restaurants and big box stores to huge shopping centers, industrial parks full of warehouses and heavy equipment, and even hospitals and surgical centers. People invest in commercial real estate (CRE) for the potential to generate rental income and capital appreciation, just as they do with residential properties like homes and condos. However, CRE is a more complicated investment than other asset classes and requires specialized knowledge. This is why most investors don’t buy and sell commercial property on their own but instead invest through a consortium, fund or other vehicle that does the work for them.
Investors can make money in CRE by purchasing property directly or through indirect investments, such as through ownership of market securities like real estate investment trusts and exchange-traded funds that invest in commercial real estate or companies that serve the industry. Direct investment involves buying and managing the physical assets, and it is typically reserved for high-net-worth individuals who can afford significant up-front costs and shoulder ongoing maintenance responsibilities. Click here
The four main types of commercial real estate are office, industrial, multifamily and retail. These can be further broken down into categories such as flex industrial, a mix of offices and warehouses; research and development (R&D) facilities, which are highly specialized industrial; and a category known as “manufactured housing communities,” which lease ground sites to owners of manufactured homes. Multifamily is another large category, which encompasses all forms of residential properties that don’t fall under the single-family umbrella. This can include apartment complexes, condos, and co-ops – and also includes rental property for students and seniors, which are considered special-purpose properties. More info
Commercial brokers serve the same functions as residential agents and brokers, but specialize in advising clients on commercial properties. They can help you find a space that meets the needs of your business, negotiate terms for leases, and even act as a liaison between you and potential tenants. In addition to being able to identify and assess the quality of specific properties, they can provide in-depth financial analyses to help you determine whether a property is right for your business. They also know the ins and outs of local government regulations, tax laws, and financing options that can impact your CRE investments. For example, they may be familiar with the rules and regulations regarding local zoning and licensing requirements that can affect your ability to use the property in the way you intend. This is why it’s important to work with a broker who has deep understanding of the commercial real estate market in your area. A good commercial real estate broker will have extensive market intelligence and a track record of success in the business. This is what makes them a great resource when you’re ready to invest in your company’s future.