Investing in commercial real estate is not just about buying a building, it is also about creating a stable source of income. It is an opportunity to transform industrial and other buildings into assets that work for you, generate profits and ensure financial stability.
Why invest in offices, shopping malls and warehouses?
Investing in commercial real estate offers the opportunity to operate in a dynamic economy where offices, warehouses and shopping malls are becoming sustainable income investments. These investments are not just ‘concrete and glass’; they are a fundamental part of the economic infrastructure. Office buildings are becoming hubs of economic activity, shopping malls are becoming the arteries of consumer demand and warehouses are becoming invisible but essential links in the supply chain.
Offices are sought after in all economies, but especially in prestigious locations where companies want to establish themselves. Shopping malls, on the other hand, act as concentrations of consumer interests, while warehouses ensure a continuous flow of goods. Together, these institutions offer a variety of investment opportunities with different returns and risks.
The main types of commercial properties: from offices to department stores
Think about the types of real estate you can invest in.
Office space
Companies, from small teams to large corporations, need professional workspaces. Representative offices in the city center are not only a matter of appearance, but also of convenience for employees and customers. Flexible office spaces, such as coworking spaces, are also becoming increasingly popular and help small businesses stay mobile.
Key factors for profitability are location and proximity to infrastructure. Offices in shopping areas can provide a steady stream of tenants, making them profitable for investors.
Shopping centers
A meeting place for active shoppers, where they not only shop but also have a good time. The variety of tenants, from fashion boutiques to large supermarkets, ensures that the risks for owners are limited and their income is stable.
Property owners benefit from the growing consumer demand, which is especially important in economically active areas, especially Moscow and St. Petersburg. There, the monthly number of visitors to large shopping centers can be between 1.5 and 2 million people. In 2022, the Aviapark shopping center in Moscow attracted more than 50 million visitors, which shows that there is still interest in the shopping center and it offers high profitability for investors.
warehouses
The “heart” of modern logistics. Due to the rapid development of e-commerce, warehouses have become indispensable in the supply chain. They not only store goods, but also distribute them, allowing companies to quickly deliver their orders to customers. Warehouses are an attractive investment object, especially in times of economic growth when the demand for logistics services increases.
Benefits and risks of investing in commercial real estate
In order to make an informed decision, investors should be aware of all the benefits and risks of investing.
Profitability, stability and capitalization
Unlike residential properties, commercial properties offer a more stable income due to the long-term lease agreements with tenants. Statistics show that specific returns of 8 to 12% per year can be achieved, depending on the type of property and location.
One of the main advantages is the capitalization of the investment. As the price per square meter increases, so does the value of assets, allowing investors to increase their capital without additional costs.
Unpredictability of tenants and market fluctuations
The sector also has its disadvantages. The unpredictability of tenants is one of the biggest risk factors. If a customer drops out or stops paying, this can have a negative impact on sales. Market fluctuations and economic crises can also affect the cost of space. It is important to take all these indicators into account when making an investment decision.
A list of the main risks of investing in commercial real estate:
- Bankruptcy. In 2023, about 20% of tenants in Russia faced financial difficulties. This led to a 15% increase in rent defaults compared to the previous year.
- Market fluctuations. During the economic crisis of 2020, prices fell by 10-15%.
- High maintenance costs. The average maintenance cost for an office building in Moscow is about 3,000 rubles per square meter per year. This includes utilities, repairs and security, and can significantly reduce profits.
How to choose a property for commercial real estate investment?
Location is the basis for success. Choosing a location in the city center or in a development area can have a significant impact on your profitability. A good location attracts tenants and ensures high occupancy.
Examples of successful investments include properties located near major transport hubs, such as metros, train stations or major road intersections, as well as near public transport stops. These locations attract tenants because they are easily accessible for employees and customers. This is especially important for office and retail spaces.
Office buildings near the Moscow metro have a high occupancy rate due to good public transport. Shopping centers near major transport hubs also attract larger flows of visitors.
Type of tenants and income stability
To successfully invest in commercial real estate, it is important to know who will rent the premises. Long-term contracts with reliable people help minimize risks. Office spaces occupied by well-known companies, retail spaces rented to retail chains or warehouses rented to large logistics companies provide a stable income.
A step towards a stable future
Financial investments in non-residential buildings offer the opportunity to generate sustainable income, ensure a stable future and increase the value of assets. Competent investments in commercial real estate require a careful approach, risk analysis and the selection of suitable properties. But for those who are willing to take on the challenge, this path can lead to financial independence. The opportunity to be part of this dynamic field is not to be missed.