Commercial Real Estate South Portland, ME

Commercial Property for Sale, Rent, Lease in South Portland, Maine

Office Space, Retail, Restaurants, Land, Industrial, Multifamily, Healthcare-Medical, Self Storage, Hospitality and Car Wash.

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Chris Pascucci
Vice President Sales
Managing Director, NH, ME
Phone: (603) 494-8960
Email: chris.pascucci@svn.com
Katy Anderka
Marketing and Business Operations Coordinator
Phone: (603) 636-7639
Email: katy.anderka@svn.com

The Masiello Group has been a trailblazer in South Portland, Maine commercial real estate since 1966. The firm has grown from its roots as a family-based business in rural Maine to the largest real estate brokerage in the area.

Our affiliation with the SVN Brand back in 2019 allowed us to harness the power of over 200 offices nationwide with over 1600 trusted advisors to help with all commercial real estate needs. We work with a shared value network, a global platform, and a technological edge.

THE SVN® ORGANIZATION is comprised of over 1,620 commercial real estate Advisors and staff, in more offices in the United States than any other commercial real estate firm and continues to expand across the globe. Geographical coverage and amplified outreach to traditional, cross-market and emerging buyers and tenants is the only way to achieve maximum value for our clients.

South Portland, ME commercial real estate

This is why we proactively promote properties and share fees with the entire industry. This is our unique Shared Value Network® and just one of the many ways that SVN® The Masiello Group Advisors create amazing value with our clients, colleagues and communities.

Specialty Practices

Our SVN® Specialty Practices are supported by our various Product Councils which allow Advisors to network, share expertise and create opportunities with colleagues who work within similar property sectors around the world.

Industrial
Multifamily
Retail
Investment
Leasing
Land
Car Wash
Self-Storage
Hospitality

Commercial Real Estate Basics

The two main types of real property are residential and commercial real estate. The structures that are used for residential purposes only and are not intended for industrial or commercial use, constitute residential properties. Commercial real estate can be used for commerce. Multi-unit rental properties which serve as homes for tenants are considered commercial activity by the landlord.

The four main classes of commercial real estate are based on their function.

  • Space for offices
  • Industrial use
  • Multifamily rentals
  • Retail

You can also further classify individual categories. For example, there are many types of retail real property:

  • Hotel and Resorts
  • Strip malls
  • Restaurants
  • Healthcare facilities

Similar to office spaces, there are many subtypes. You may refer to it as class A or B. The best buildings are classified as Class A. They have the highest aesthetics and quality in location.

Class B buildings are usually older and not as competitive--price-wise--as class A buildings. These buildings are often targeted by investors for restoration.

The oldest buildings in Class C are usually older than 20 years old and located in areas that are less appealing or in dire need of maintenance.

Some licensing and zoning authorities may further separate industrial properties. These are sites used to manufacture or produce goods. However, most people consider this a part of commercial real property.

 

Commercial Leases

Businesses may own the properties they use. The most common scenario is when the commercial property is leased. The building is usually owned by an investor, or group of investors. Each business operating there collects rent. The price for a commercial lease is usually expressed in an annual rent per square foot. Residential real estate rates are either an annual rent or an amount.

Most commercial leases last from 1 to 10 years. Office and retail spaces typically have five to 10-year leases.

Contrast this with shorter-term residential leases that are either yearly- or month-to-month. CBRE Group, a real estate analyst company found that lease terms (i.e. the length of a lease) are proportional to how large the space is being leased.

The data also showed that long-term leases were preferred by tenants to secure rising prices. However, this isn't the only reason they choose to rent. Because of the restricted availability of properties that meet their requirements, some tenants will be forced to sign long leases.

Four types of leases for commercial properties are available, with each type requiring different levels and levels of responsibility on the part of the landlord or tenant.

Tenant is responsible for property taxes if he/she signs a single, net lease.

Double Net (NN) leases make the tenant responsible to pay property taxes and insurance.

Triple Net (NNN), a triple net lease means that the tenant is responsible for property taxes, maintenance, and insurance. A gross lease allows the tenant to pay only rent and the landlord will cover the property taxes, insurance and maintenance.

 

Managing Commercial Real Estate

The owner must manage the commercial property they lease. A commercial real estate manager can help property owners find, manage and keep tenants. They will also oversee leasing and financing options and coordinate the upkeep of their properties. A commercial real estate company's specialized knowledge is invaluable as there are many regulations that govern such properties. These rules can vary depending on the state, country, municipality, industry and size.

A landlord has to find a way to balance rent increases and tenant turnover. For CRE landlords, turnover can prove costly as space needs must be adjusted to suit different tenants.

 

Commercial Real Estate: How investors make money

Commercial real estate investment can prove lucrative. It also serves as an insurance against volatility in the stock market. While property appreciation can be a good way to make some money, the majority of returns are from tenants renting.

Direct Investment

Direct investments allow investors to become landlords by purchasing the property. Direct investment in commercial real property is best for those with a lot of industry knowledge or who can hire firms that have it. High-risk and high-reward investments in real estate are commercial properties. This investor will likely be high-net worth, as CRE investment requires significant capital.

A property in a low supply area and high demand will be the ideal one. This will ensure that rental rates are favorable. CRE purchases are also affected by the strength of local economies.

Indirect Investment

Investors may also invest indirectly in the market through ownership of market securities such as REITs or ETFs that invest in property-related stocks or in companies that specialize in the market for commercial real estate, like banks or Realtors.

 

Commercial Real Estate has its advantages

Attractive leasing rates are one of the greatest advantages to commercial real estate. Commercial real estate is a great investment option for areas with limited land and law. It can provide impressive cash flow, as well as significant returns. Although industrial buildings rent for a lower amount, they have lower overheads than office towers.

Comparably longer lease agreements with tenants for commercial real estate are also beneficial than those in residential real estate. As long as the tenants remain in the property, the lease term is long enough to provide a substantial amount of stability for commercial real estate owners.

Commercial real estate can provide capital appreciation as well as a steady and high-income source. However, it must be maintained and updated. It is an asset that, just like other forms of realty, can be used to diversify a portfolio.

 

Commercial Real Estate's Disadvantages

Most people who want to make direct investments in commercial real property are discouraged by regulations and rules. There are many legalese layers that cover taxes and the mechanics of buying, as well as maintenance obligations for commercial property owners. This can change depending on the state, country, industry, size and zoning. Commercial real estate investors are either specialized or have access to a large number of skilled people.

Tenant turnover is another risk, particularly in an environment where there are often no notices for unexpected closures of retail stores.

In a residence, one tenant's facilities needs are usually the same as those of future or previous tenants. Commercial properties may require a lot of refurbishment because each tenant might have different requirements. Each tenant will require a different type of space, so the building owner must adapt it to meet their needs. Commercial properties with low turnover but low vacancy may lose money because of the high cost of renovating for new tenants.

A commercial property can be more expensive than buying a residence if you are looking for direct investment. Real estate is generally one of the most liquid asset classes. However, commercial property transactions tend to be slow.

 

Pros

  • Hedge against stock market
  • Source of high-yielding income
  • Long-term tenants provide stable cash flow
  • Capital appreciation potential

 

Cons

  • Direct investments require more capital
  • More regulation
  • Renovation costs are higher
  • Illiquid asset

 

The Outlook for Commercial Real Estate Forecasts

Although the U.S. commercial real estate market suffered a severe blow during 2008-2009's recession, it has seen steady annual growth since 2010. This has helped to recover losses from the recession.

Forbes reported that the commercial real estate market has been particularly affected by the decline in retail sales. In 2017, there were more store closings than ever before, and this trend continued through 2018. Popular mall REIT Westfield Corporation saw its stock prices drop by 30% between mid-2016 and late 2017, before recovering some of the losses in January 2018. 

Unibail-Rodamco SE acquired Westfield for $15.8 billion later in 2018, creating Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield (URW).

The majority of research shows that overall, the property market is healthy. J.P. Morgan's 2019 Commercial Real Estate Outlook echoed much of this opinion, commenting on the fact that 2019 marked 10 years of increased commercial property valuations and rents.

Notably, real estate prices did not drop significantly due to the worldwide COVID-19 pandemic that began in 2020. Property values, except for a drop that occurred at the start of the pandemic have been stable or rising, just like the stock markets, which rebounded from the dramatic fall in Q2 2020 and saw a similar rally through most of 2021.

This distinction is crucial between 2020's economic collapse and the decade before. It is unknown if this required remote working environment, which was created in 2020 by most Americans, will continue to have a long-term effect on the corporate office's needs.

 

In Summary

A commercial property is real estate used for income generation or business purposes. This is different from residential real property in that it can generate rental income and capital appreciation. There are four major types of commercial real property: office space, industrial and multifamily rentals.

Commercial real estate investment requires greater sophistication than residential property. However, it is possible to earn high returns. Individuals can indirectly invest in commercial real property by investing through publicly traded REITs without having to be experts.

 

Takeaways

  • The term commercial real estate is property that's used for income generation or business purposes.
  • Because it can generate income through rental income or capital gains, commercial real estate is different from residential property.
  • There are four major types of commercial real property: office space, industrial and multifamily rentals.
  • The potential to earn some capital appreciation by investing in commercial real estate is a plus.
  • Commercial real estate investment requires more sophisticated and higher amounts of capital than residential property.
  • Individuals can indirectly invest in commercial real property through publicly traded real-estate investment trusts (REITs).

COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE FAQS

 

What Is Commercial Real Estate?

CRE (commercial real estate) refers to property that is used for only business purposes. It can also be used as a workspace or a place of work. This would not include residential real estate. Commercial real estate can be leased out to tenants for income-generating purposes. The broad range of real property can cover everything, from one storefront to large shopping centers.

There are many types of commercial real estate. You can find it in any type of property, from an office building to residential duplexes or even a warehouse or restaurant. Commercial real estate can be leased out to individuals, businesses, and corporations. Or, they could stay in their possession and sell it.

There are many types of commercial real estate, including office space, resorts and hotels, strip malls and restaurants.

 

Is there a difference in residential and commercial real estate?

Only private dwellings can be used as residential real estate. Any property that is used to conduct business activities, is called commercial real estate. Commercial real estate includes hospitals, factories, warehouses, distribution centers, shopping centers, offices, and any other space that is needed to support a business.

 

Are commercial real estate investments a wise investment?

You can. It can be. Commercial real estate has impressive returns, substantial monthly cash flows and it also holds up during market shocks. Commercial real estate is like any other investment. However, there are risks.

 

Which are the drawbacks to commercial real estate?

Most people who want to invest in commercial property are discouraged by regulations and rules. It can be confusing to learn the details of taxes and mechanics of buying and maintaining commercial property without specialist knowledge.

 

Which type of commercial real property is most lucrative?

The properties with the most tenants are more likely to bring in the greatest return on investment. This includes apartment buildings, RV parks, student housing, office buildings and storage spaces.

 

What makes commercial real estate such a great investment?

The earning potential is the best reason to choose commercial rentals over residential. The annual return on commercial properties is typically between 6% to 12% depending on where they are located and the current economic situation.

 

What are the best ways to make money with commercial properties?

Investing in commercial real estate can bring you income and appreciation. The building's operation, which often involves tenants paying rent, generates income, and appreciation comes from the property's increase in value.

 

What are some examples of commercial buildings?

These are just a few examples of types of commercial buildings.

  • Buildings for offices. Common types of commercial buildings include office buildings. They can be found anywhere in the world, from small towns to large cities. 
  • Restaurants. 
  • Retail. 
  • Hotels.
  • Warehouses.
  • Industrial. 
  • Healthcare.
  • Multi-use.

 

What are the best ways to sell my commercial real estate?

  • A Commercial Real Estate Broker is the best choice. 
  • Show Interior and Exterior photos. 
  • Make marketing material.
  • List the property online. 
  • Share this with your network.
  • Register with Your Chamber of Commerce or Economic Development Board. 
  • Post high quality signage on-site.

 

What is the average time it takes to sell commercial properties?

There are many factors that affect the time it takes to sell a commercial property. It could take as little as a few weeks up to one year. Market factors, such as the local demand for buildings of your kind and the cost of the property themselves, can affect the time frames.

 

How do you negotiate a commercial real estate deal?

Five Tips for Negotiating a Commercial Real Estate Transaction

  • Know your needs. Effective negotiation begins with a clear understanding of your needs
  • Prioritize Budget Setting
  • Due Diligence
  • Make an offer 
  • Respect All Parties

 

Which documents do you need to sell commercial property?

You will need to submit a variety of documents when you sell your commercial property.

  • Responses to Commercial Property Standard Enquiries.
  • Planning and Building Regulations Documentation.
  • Asbestos Survey. 
  • Fire Risk Assessment.
  • Energy Performance Certificate.

 

How is commercial rent calculated?

However, commercial rent reviews may be determined on other factors than the market value. This could include inflation measures such as the Retail Price Index or turnover. Negotiations reflect the open market value at that moment when an open-market rent review is conducted.

 

What are the best ways to save tax when I sell commercial property?

Capital gain tax exemption from the sale of commercial real estate. The proceeds can be invested in residential property, or capital gains bonds issued by specified institutions to claim exemption from Section 54EC.

 

How do you sell your commercial property?

This is how the sales process works:

  • Analysis of the Sellers' Goals. Many real estate brokers assume sellers desire all cash upon closing. ...
  • Assessing your property. 
  • Marketing Packet. 
  • Get in touch with Qualified Buyers. 
  • Interview Buyers.
  • Educate Buyers. 
  • You can sign a Confidentiality agreement.
  • Send a Marketing Packet To Buyer

 

What happens when a lease on commercial property expires?

If a lease agreement is made within the Act, it will automatically renew after the expiration of its term. Tenant is considered to be entitled to "security of tenure". Either the landlord, or the tenant must serve the proper notice to end the lease.

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