Commercial Property Investment 101: Should You Lease Or Buy?

Posted On Thursday, 02 November 2023 09:30

If you’re considering commercial property, one of the first things you need to decide is whether to lease or buy. Both options have their own potentials and drawbacks, so it’s important to take note of them prior to making a pick. Read on to learn more.

What Is Commercial Property Investment

Commercial property investment is a type of property obtained for the purpose of generating income. Commercial properties can include office buildings, retail stores, industrial facilities, and multifamily housing.

Types Of Commercial Properties

There are many different types of commercial properties, each with its own unique advantages and disadvantages. Some of the most common types of commercial properties include:

     •  Office Buildings 

Office buildings are home to a variety of businesses, including law firms, accounting firms, and technology companies. They can be a good investment for investors who are looking for a steady stream of income from rent payments.

     •  Retail Stores

Retail stores sell goods and services to consumers. They can be a good investment for investors who are looking for the potential for high returns. Nonetheless, retail stores are also more risky than other types of commercial properties, as they’re more susceptible to economic downturns.

     •  Industrial Facilities

Industrial facilities are used for manufacturing, warehousing, and distribution. They can be a good investment for investors who are looking for a steady stream of income from rent payments. Yet industrial facilities can be more financially constraining to purchase and maintain than other types of commercial properties.

     •  Multifamily Housing

Multifamily housing includes apartment buildings, condominiums, and townhouses. It can be a good investment for investors who are looking for a steady stream of income from rent payments. Nonetheless, multifamily housing can be more difficult to manage than other types of commercial properties.

Now that you know the different types of commercial properties, you ought to know about the various advantages and drawbacks of leasing or buying a commercial property. Continue reading below.

Benefits Of Leasing Commercial Property

There are a number of benefits to leasing commercial property. First, it requires a smaller upfront investment than buying a property. This can be a good option if you’re short on cash or if you’re unsure how long you’ll need the property.

Next, leasing commercial property can give you more flexibility. If your business grows or shrinks, you can typically adjust your lease agreement accordingly. This can be difficult to do if you own the property.

Lastly, leasing commercial property can reduce your management responsibilities. The landlord is typically responsible for maintenance and repairs, which can save you time and money.

Drawbacks Of Leasing Commercial Property

One of the biggest drawbacks of leasing commercial property is that you don’t build equity. This means that you won’t profit from any increase in the property’s value over time.

Another disadvantage of leasing commercial property is that you may be subject to rent increases. Your landlord can raise the rent at the end of your lease term, and you may have little negotiating power.

Finally, some landlords may have restrictive lease terms that limit what you can do with the property. For instance, you may be prohibited from making certain renovations or from subletting the property.

Benefits Of Buying Commercial Property

Purchasing a commercial property comes with its own advantages. First, you build equity over time. This means that you can profit from any increase in the property’s value if you sell later on.

Second, you have more control over the property when you own it. You can make any renovations you want, and you can sublet or lease the property to other tenants. And finally, you can potentially avoid rent increases. Once you’ve paid off the mortgage, you’ll only have to pay property taxes and insurance.

Drawbacks Of Buying Commercial Property

One of the biggest drawbacks of buying commercial property is the high upfront investment. Additionally, you’ll need to factor in the cost of maintenance and repairs, as well as property taxes and insurance.

Another drawback of buying commercial property is that it’s less flexible than leasing. If your business grows or shrinks, you may have to sell the property or rent out part of it. This can be a difficult and time-consuming process.

Lastly, owning commercial property can be a lot of work. You’ll need to manage the property yourself, or you’ll need to hire a property manager.

Which Option Is For You: Lease Or Buy

The decision of whether to lease or buy commercial property depends on your individual circumstances and investment goals. Here are some additional things to consider when making your decision:

     •  Your budget: How much money can you afford to invest upfront in a commercial property?
     •  Your investment goals: What are you hoping to achieve with your commercial property investment? Are you looking for a steady stream of income, or are you hoping to appreciate the value of the property over time?
     •  Your business needs: What type of commercial property do you need for your business? How much space do you need? What amenities are important to you?
     •  Your risk tolerance: How much risk are you comfortable with? Buying commercial property is a riskier investment than leasing, yet it has the potential for higher rewards too.

Additional Tips For Commercial Property Investors

     –  Do your research. 
     –  Get professional advice. Work with a qualified commercial real estate agent or broker to help you find and evaluate properties.
     –  Negotiate with the seller or landlord of the commercial property you’re interested in.
     –  Have a plan. Before you invest in commercial property, have a plan for how you’ll manage the property and how you’ll generate income from it.

In Conclusion

If you’re considering investing in commercial property, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons of leasing and buying carefully. Your choice will depend on your individual circumstances and investment goals.

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