5 Questions You Need To Consider Ahead Of A CRE Transaction

Everything you need to know to protect your investment decision.

3.5 min read

The current economic climate suggests that the demand for commercial properties will only continue to rise. Purchasing commercial real estate can be an intimidating feat, especially if it is your first time. Knowing the right questions to ask your commercial real estate agent will not only give you a better understanding of the property at hand but will set you up for success for future purchases. 

If you’re looking to invest in commercial real estate, you’ve come to the right place. We’re sharing five essential questions you need to consider when purchasing commercial real estate. 

1. How long has the property been on the market?

Commercial properties tend to stay on the market longer than residential properties do, given the nature of the business. However, if a property has been on the market for longer than usual, it might cause concern. When considering purchasing a property, make sure to research how long it generally takes comparable of that nature to sell for in the area. If longer than average, you may want to consider speaking with the seller.

2. Is the property in the right location?

Location is vital when purchasing a commercial property. Whether you are looking to acquire an office, retail or industrial space, the surrounding amenities and neighbourhood can play a crucial role in whether that property is desirable or not. Certain aspects of an area that may not be suitable for residential properties can make all the difference in driving ROI on your commercial investment.

3. Is there any future development taking place nearby?

Nearby developments can either make or break the location of a commercial real estate property. Your agent needs to do adequate research on up-and-coming and well future developments that are taking place nearby. If the development has a chance of hindering your ROI, it may be best to look elsewhere. 

4. Are there any issues with the property?

Before signing on the dotted line, it is in your own best interest to thoroughly inspect all aspects of the property, including the seller, financing, and compliance obligations. Doing this will reduce and mitigate uncertainties if and when your client acquires the property. It can include anything from a building condition assessment, a title search, a survey, any significant expenditures on the property and other related records. 

5. Does it fit my business goals?

A property may look desirable at first glance, but it may not be the right fit for you if it does not align with your business goals. Always consider all aspects of the investment and whether it will work for you now and in the future. You could save yourself year’s worth of headaches If you do.

Knowing which questions to ask when investing in commercial real estate will help you get the information you need to make the right purchase decision. 

Reference

Important Questions to Ask When Purchasing Commercial Real Estate. (2019, June 18). [web log]. https://bermontrealty.com/blog.html/important-questions-to-ask-when-purchasing-commercial-real-estate-6370009.  


About Royal LePage Commercial Westhaven

Our commercial real estate industry and segment expertise coupled with Royal LePage’s national platform and integrated systems provides best-in-class real estate strategies and a competitive advantage that can’t be beat.

We help businesses identify opportunities and maximize their return on investment with actionable goals, centralized support services and a strong commitment to customer success. Our national partnerships help us establish, guide and execute successful business investments.

We offer commercial real estate agents a professional environment, focused 100% on commercial real estate.  Agents can expect unlimited market boundaries to build their business without the interference of a heavy corporate structure.  In addition, agents will be able to access Royal LePage’s national referral network of over 18,000 agents to develop more business in their target markets with incoming leads generated daily. The brokerage provides agents a suite of services including marketing, promotional, networking and professional development needs.

Innovation and service excellence have developed and propelled the Royal LePage brand since 1913. When you join Royal LePage Commercial Westhaven brokerage, you have the backing of one of the most powerful commercial real estate services company in Canada—Bridgemarq Real Estate Services Inc. (formally Brookfield Real Estate Services Inc.). Bridgemarq is a leading provider of services to real estate brokers and agents.  They are an affiliate of Brookfield Business Partners, a business services and industrials company focused on owning and operating high-quality businesses and is listed on the New York and Toronto stock exchanges.

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