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What Small Business Owners Should Think About Before Purchasing Commercial Real Estate
It might seem like a bad time to invest money in a commercial real estate. Purchase for small businesses hoping to launch or grow their brick-and-mortar presence. For the 6th time in 2022, central banks around the world have raised interest rates, citing inflation risks amid forecasts of an impending global recession. This will unavoidably increase the cost of loans for borrowers.
The ideal time to buy commercial real estate does not actually exist. Moreover, not all warning signs indicate the end of the world when you look at the bigger picture. According to Alyssa Dangler, a commercial real estate attorney based in the US. There are still some truly amazing opportunities available But I believe it really requires small business owners to consider what their goals and plans are.
Small business owners should think about the following when deciding whether to buy commercial real estate.
Borrowing Fees
Higher interest rates might not be the deciding factor in a transaction. But they might force business owners to reduce the size of their down payments. Or cut spending elsewhere to make up for higher monthly payments. However, small business owners who are anticipating a decline in interest rates may find themselves in a holding pattern for long periods than they anticipated. Central banks around the world predict future rate increases.
When compared to interest rates throughout history, today’s rates do not appear to be as outrageous, according to Dangler. Even though interest rates are rising. Some business owners, like Elaina Paige Thomas of Next Paige Talent Management and Production in the US, are choosing to continue. Thomas says, “It didn’t scare me even I know we can always refinance in the future.” “I always had ownership and equity as the end goal,” the speaker said.
Potential Improvements
When construction loans are involved, purchasing commercial real estate becomes more challenging. This kind of financing typically has variable interest rates. Which gives them plenty of room to rise over the course of the project.
Dangler explains that lenders might require borrowers to buy an interest rate cap in order to lessen the chance. That a company will not be able to afford future payments that are more expensive. This safety net prevents their rate from going over a predetermined limit, but it also adds to the cost.
Before proceeding with a real estate transaction, be aware of and ready for these additional expenses. If you are worried about stretching your budget too thin, look at properties. That do not require extensive renovations or reduce the project’s scope to just the necessities.
The Phase of Expansion of Your Business
Businesses that are more established typically have capital and a clear understanding of their growth path. These elements, along with the length of operation and better-established credit, result in a more appealing loan application. Which is likely to have a lower interest rate.
Startup companies, on the other hand, might want to think about leasing instead of making a quick purchase. He asserts that some startups may experience greater financial success investing their funds in marketing, hiring, or inventory as opposed to more well-established companies. Additionally, leasing provides them more freedom to relocate if their business expands.
Expert Opinion
Having access to a commercial real estate agent who focuses on a specific kind of property can help customers compare their options. According to Barbi Reuter, CEO, and chairman of a US-based commercial real estate company, “having your own representation helps to ensure that your interests are pursued.” “You need to have the knowledge to act when it matters most.”
She adds that they can help small business owners, in particular, narrow down their options, contrast buy versus lease scenarios, perform calculations, and navigate market changes. They can also look into the business laws that specify what kinds of businesses are allowed to occupy the space. And how they can be used.
Your Industry
Prior to renting a space, consider the market dynamics in the area and for your specific industry. Sector-specific variations in property demand can affect your level of competition and, consequently, your negotiating power. Reuter advises discovering the locations of your workforce, suppliers, and customer base as well, depending on the type of business you run.
Reuter advises being “extremely focused” on the dynamics of both your geographic market as well as the market in which you sell, trade, or run your business. More information can be gained from industry reports on how other companies in your sector are doing. As well as data on where people are moving.
