An investment in commercial real estate can be an attractive opportunity for investors who seek to diversify and generate income. With any other form of investment, the two-sided consideration of a clear perception of advantages versus disadvantages is always there. As real estate developer Dov Hertz says, “A real estate transaction is like walking through a minefield. Those who are successful are able to sidestep and pivot when necessary. Those who don’t end up stepping on the mine and blowing it up.” Knowing the pros and cons will open your eyes to making informed decisions about commercial real estate investments.
Advantages of Investing in Commercial Real Estate
More Potential Income: Commercial properties command higher rental income than residential properties, hence higher possible returns on investment.
Longer Leases: Commercial leases appear to be less short-term when compared to residential ones. It puts an investor in a more stable income stream environment.
Professional Relationships: Commercial leases quite often get entered into with businesses, which also results in professional relationships that may prove to be beneficial for future investments or even business opportunities. Dov Hertz advises, “Real estate negotiations are personal. Create a relationship with the person on the other side.”
A Diversified Tenant Base: The commercial property can house not just a variety of businesses but also reduces the risk of vacancy vis-à-vis single-family residential properties.
Appreciation: Commercial property appreciates with time, and this means an increase in the worth of your investment.
Tax Benefit: Deductions for depreciation, mortgage interest, and property taxes are allowed to investors in business real estate.
Portfolio Diversification: Investments in commercial real estate help investors diversify their portfolios considerably; therefore, the aggregate risk of investments decreases.
Drawback of Commercial Real Estate Investments
Higher Costs: Commercial projects demand a higher one-time and recurring expenditure on maintenance, repairs, and property management.
Vacancy Risk: The chance of loss from rental income due to a commercial property vending itself, therefore, is open to market fluctuations but also due to possible vacancies.
Market Sensitivity: The market value of commercial property level is undeniably more sensitive to changes in economic conditions and prevalent market sentiments.
Tenant Quality: Commercial tenants differ in quality – some businesses are more susceptible to market downturns and sector/performance changes.
Complexity: Dov Hertz observes, “Investment in commercial property tends to be a lot more complex compared to residential real estate investment. Such property is so often heavily regulated, not only in its use but also under zoning laws that might affect usage and value.”
Liquidity: These investments involve commercial real estate, which is less liquid than other classes of investment, as they take longer to sell and require a specialized market.