The commercial side of real estate can be an appealing proposition for any investor. It offers you the ability to dip into a new pool of clients and grow your business interests. But, the commercial side of real estate is also a different beast that requires some additional considerations versus the residential side of the business.
Patience is a virtue with these transactions as the sales cycle is longer, requiring an investor to remain vigilant with the market demand. But many indicators point to commercial real estate as a strong choice for agents looking to move their business forward in 2018.
Ten members of Forbes Real Estate Council shared the one thing investors should be aware of before getting involved with commercial real estate. Here is what they recommend:
1. Remember Everything Takes Longer
Compared to residential investing, everything takes longer. Due diligence is months instead of days. Finding new tenants takes longer. Build out or renovation is longer. But the leases are longer, as well. Patience is key. It just takes longer. – Roger Blankenship, Flipping America
2. Understand The Market
Investors need to understand the market they are investing in. Having a good wherewithal of the fundamentals (legal implications, competition, vacancy, rents, etc.) will allow them to make savvy investments that could yield high returns. This will enable investors to fine tune their commercial real estate investments and diversify their portfolio. – Juan Zaragoza, Exan Capital LLC
3. Consider Area Demographics And Trends
When investing in commercial real estate, the investor needs to consider demographics and trends for the area. Do they play into the reason for investing? Do you plan to develop? If so, find a local broker who understands the area and knows the playbook of the local authoritative agencies. You will need to understand civil engineering and environmental law in this playbook! – Rita Santamaria, Champions School of Real Estate
4. Assess Risk By Property Type
Risk assessment is very different in commercial when compared to residential real estate, and varies greatly by property type. The success of two residential properties right next to each other is typically similar, while commercial buildings in a similar position could fluctuate independently, so it’s important to understand the range of risks inherent to your potential investment. – Nav Athwal, RealtyShares
5. Avoid Failing Businesses Or Business Models
If your tenants include restaurants, grocery stores, bars or business models that are migrating online (like banks), you need to assume that they will default on their lease at one point, and you need to prepare your insurance correctly to make sure you are covered when that happens. Search for failing businesses and do your best to not deal with them as there may not always be a golden parachute. – Kent Clothier, Real Estate Worldwide
Continue reading full article on forbes.com.
