It can be difficult finding the right commercial property if you do not know where to search. Read this article to learn more about the basics of commercial real estate.
In commercial real estate, go ahead and go big. If you are already going to have to go through commercial financing to work a deal, then why not look at bigger properties? The cost per unit decreases the larger the property and management of a bigger property does not require an exponential effort to the number of units. The management of a a few units is virtually the same as managing a complex.
To really make money in real estate you have to make it the day you purchase the property, not rely on the price going up over time. As the last few years have shown, prices can fall as well as rise. But finding a solid house that doesn’t require a lot of repairs will eventually be paid for and can be sold for the equity.
Before you rent your new house or apartment be sure you have enough references. Most landlords require at least three references. Check the names, addresses and phone numbers for accuracy. There is nothing worse than a reference whose name is incorrect, the phone line is disconnected or the letter the landlord sends comes back as undeliverable.
It is important that you understand that the real estate market is not like the stock market. An investment in a property is a long term investment. Stock investments are usually short term investments. If you go in thinking you are investing in stock, you need to rethink so you do not get yourself in financial trouble.
A ‘high traffic’ location is desirable for a business. How many people will pass by and see your store each day is important. But you should look more closely. Is there adequate parking? handicapped accessibility? can a left turn be made safely into your parking lot? These are all questions you will want to ask.
When considering purchasing commercial real estate find and visit local associations such as landlord associations and business owner associations in your area. You may be able to attend a few meetings without paying for a membership (excluding the cost of a meal.) This way you will be able to begin a network of people who already do what you want to do. Do not forget your business cards and request cards from others!
When buying commercial property remember that they do take longer than if you were going to buy a single family home. You don’t want to get impatient or rush into anything. Commercial property should not be looked at as a quick way to make some cash. Look at it as an investment.
Make sure you have the money if you are going to invest in commercial real estate. You will need enough to cover a down payment, closing costs, points and earnest money. Banks might be more apt to give you the loan you need, if you are taking care of some of the costs already.
If investing in commercial real estate, invest, don’t simply accumulate properties. Accumulation could lead to a downfall when you could be investing wisely to ensure that you are getting a profit from the properties you purchase. You never want to remain just under or breaking even as it serves no benefit to you.
When entering into commercial real estate, investigate the track record of your broker. You will want to hire someone who not only specializes in your unique interests, but has the results to back it up. Treat this as any hiring process that you ever would go through at a typical job for maximum results.
Networking is a great tool when you are getting into commercial real estate. Networking allows you to make contact with others who can help you. In return you might be able to help them as well. It is a win-win for everyone, and will help make real estate more profitable for you.
You need to hire a real estate agent that has experience with commercial real estate if you are attempting to sell your commercial property. There are some agent who may be trying to get into the commercial real estate game, but really have no experience at selling commercial real estate. That means that they may not be able to give you the help that a more experienced real estate agent would be able to.
When looking for the right commercial listing to invest in, set up tours of three or four buildings at a time to inspect. You should permit about thirty minutes per location plus the time that it is going to take you to travel between the different locations. This makes it easier for you to compare your options.
Do not risk the success of your business by choosing a property that isn’t exactly what your business requires. Make sure you pick apart every detail of the commercial property, as well as any charges associated with the property, before you buy, otherwise the cost to make up for a mistake could be your entire business!
If you plan on investing in commercial real estate, you should aim to look over the financial status of the tenants. If a tenant’s financial status is bad, then you probably should not invest in that real estate. You should aim to look over the financial statements, but if you can not find any, check out their websites or find companies that collect information about small and mid-sized businesses.
Once you have bought some buildings, you should carefully establish a plan to get them ready for renting. Have an expert inspect your buildings and determine what needs to be done to meet safety requirements. Create a checklist of everything you have to fix and make sure it matches your budget.
Having read this article, you are aware of the great ideas and advice when becoming involved with the commercial real estate market. Check your local newspaper and online sources for up to date information about commercial real estate in your town.
