How and Where to Find Commercial Real Estate

Looking for your first—or next—great commercial property?

Whether you're starting with a small apartment complex or expanding into office or retail space, knowing how and where to find commercial real estate is half the battle.

You don’t just want to find a property. You want to find a property that makes sense financially, fits your goals, and gives you long-term income potential. Here's how to do that, step-by-step.

1. Know What Type of Commercial Property You Want

Start by narrowing your focus. Are you drawn to:

• Apartment buildings?

• Mobile home parks?

• Self-storage units?

• Retail or office space?

Each category has its own dynamics—and knowing your target will help you search smarter.

2. Where to Look for Commercial Real Estate Deals

Here are the top places to find available commercial properties:

• Commercial real estate brokers and CCIMs (Certified Commercial Investment Members)

• Major listing platforms

• Brokerage firm websites

• Local city directories and county permit data

• Networking with other property owners, lenders, and professionals

The more diverse your sources, the better your chances of spotting a great opportunity before the crowd.

3. Find Motivated Sellers

Some of the best deals come from sellers who are ready to walk away—due to retirement, burnout, health, or relocation.

Look for signs of motivation, like:

• Properties sitting on the market too long

• Poor maintenance or high vacancy

• Sellers open to creative terms or owner financing

Motivated sellers are more likely to negotiate price, terms, and closing conditions in your favor.

4. Farm Your Target Area

“Farming” means digging deep into one market. Whether it’s your hometown or a city with growth potential, get to know:

• Occupancy rates

• Local employment trends

• What’s being built (new permits)

• Sales activity and listing velocity

Drive the neighborhoods. Talk to local business owners. Visit the properties. You’ll spot patterns and opportunities you’d miss online.

5. Leverage Off-Market Opportunities

Some of the best deals never hit the MLS or listing platforms.

Get to know:

• Local lenders and appraisers

• Title reps

• Brokers and business attorneys

• Other investors

Let them know what you’re looking for. When they hear of something interesting—especially off-market—you’ll be top of mind.

6. Evaluate Carefully Before You Buy

When you find a promising property:

• Do a site visit. Never trust photos alone.

• Talk to tenants (discreetly) to understand the building’s condition and the landlord’s reputation.

• Check for market demand. Are rents rising? Are nearby properties full or sitting empty?

• Analyze the financials. Look at net operating income, cap rate, debt service coverage, and cash flow.

Be picky. The right deal is worth the wait.

Final Thought:

One smart deal beats five average ones. Don’t rush. Do the work. And remember: your next great property might already be sitting right around the corner—you just have to know how to find it.