Tag Archive for: commercial real estate

The casual dining sector is evolving rapidly due to changing consumer preferences and technological advancements. These shifts are going to start having an impact on property values, making it essential for commercial real estate investors to understand how these trends influence investment potential. By aligning investments with the current trends shaping the casual dining landscape, investors can ensure long-term value growth and portfolio resilience.

1. Enhanced Customer Experiences and Property Value

Today’s diners seek more than just good food—they want memorable, immersive experiences. In response, casual dining establishments are investing in ambiance, expanding outdoor seating, and incorporating entertainment features. Properties that can accommodate these elements can help to increase the value, as they allow tenants to cater to the demand for experiential dining. For investors, choosing adaptable spaces that enhance customer experience can attract tenants who are willing to pay higher rents and sign longer leases. This ultimately boosts the property’s income potential and enhances overall asset value.

2. Digital Integration as a Value Driver

The adoption of digital solutions such as online ordering, delivery, and contactless payments has become a standard in casual dining. Properties with robust digital infrastructure—like high-speed internet and dedicated pickup areas—are increasingly appealing to tenants who want to stay competitive in the digital age. Doug Roland, investment advisor at Sands Investment Group, notes that with the rise of platforms like Uber Eats and DoorDash, operators have been able to “utilize smaller square footage, less parking, and reduce labor costs. This setup makes for more stable tenants which ultimately reduces investor risk.” Working with SIG investment advisors allows investors to have access to key insights into which tenants and operators are taking advantage of technological advancements and which are not.

3. Sustainability Enhances Appeal and Long-Term Value

Environmental consciousness is rising among both consumers and businesses. Casual dining establishments are thus seeking eco-friendly, energy-efficient properties. Buildings that offer sustainable features often command higher values because they align with tenants’ goals of reducing environmental impact and operational costs. Sustainable properties attract tenants willing to pay a premium for green features such as solar panels, gray water recycling, and LED lighting, which in turn strengthens tenant retention and supports long-term value growth. Investors who focus on sustainability not only meet current market demands but also mitigate potential risks associated with future environmental regulations, adding to their properties’ resilience.

4. Multi-Use Spaces Increase Versatility and Value

Casual dining establishments are increasingly interested in spaces that can serve multiple purposes beyond dining, such as hosting events or providing co-working areas. Multi-use properties that offer this flexibility tend to have higher market values as they can cater to diverse tenant needs and adapt to shifting demands. For investors, this versatility translates into greater revenue potential, as such properties can attract a broader range of tenants looking for spaces that maximize both utility and adaptability.

5. Prime Location and Accessibility as Core Value Indicators

Despite the rise of delivery services, location remains critical for casual dining success. Doug Roland emphasizes that “geography is very important, as properties in high-traffic areas with easy access to parking and public transit continue to attract a steady flow of customers”. For investors, focusing on properties in strategic locations helps maintain strong rental rates and consistent tenant demand. By choosing locations with prime accessibility, investors increase their chances for not only stable income but also long-term property appreciation.

6. Menu Innovation and Its Influence on Property Value

Menu innovation is another trend influencing casual dining real estate. Diners today are more adventurous, favoring unique, high-quality, and often health-conscious options. Restaurants focused on menu innovation often require adaptable kitchen spaces that can accommodate evolving culinary trends and specialized equipment. Properties with flexible layouts or potential for kitchen expansion appeal to tenants who prioritize menu creativity as a way to differentiate themselves. Investors who recognize this trend can select properties that cater to forward-thinking tenants, enhancing both rental income and property value.

How SIG’s Investment Advisors Provide Value to Investors

Our investment advisors bring valuable insights to investors in casual dining real estate by aligning investment strategies with key market trends. Through expert analysis, we identify properties that are adaptable, digitally integrated, and sustainability-focused, ensuring these assets meet current tenant demands and support long-term growth. By leveraging their deep knowledge of prime locations and multi-use property potential, our investment advisors help investors make informed decisions that optimize property value, attract quality tenants, and enhance portfolio resilience. This strategic guidance positions investors to navigate a dynamic market effectively and secure sustainable returns.

Contact our restaurant team today to learn more about our services and how we can help you achieve your financial goals.

The early education sector is emerging as a hotbed of commercial real estate investment, driven by profound demographic shifts and economic changes. Despite disruptions during the pandemic, demand for modern early education facilities continues to grow, making the future of this property type promising for savvy investors. Let’s explore the key factors shaping this opportunity and why now is the time to invest in the future of early childhood education.

1. Shifting Demographics & Post-Pandemic Recovery

Urban and suburban areas are seeing a surge in young families seeking quality early education for their children. While COVID-19 caused enrollment to plummet—dropping from 54% to 40% for 3- to 4-year-olds between 2019 and 2020—there’s been a steady recovery. By 2021, enrollment climbed back to 50%, and the trend continues upward.

Adam Bridges, Senior Investment Advisor at Sands Investment Group, notes, “We’ve seen a strong bounce back in childcare enrollments post-pandemic, which is encouraging for investors looking at performance at the unit level.”

This recovery presents an opportunity to meet the growing demand for innovative, high-quality facilities, especially as more parents re-enter the workforce. With young families and strong employment rates driving the need for modern learning environments, now is the time to invest in this resilient market.

2. The Impact of Expiring Pandemic Funding

As pandemic-related financial support for early education facilities ends, there’s a shift towards long-term sustainability. During the crisis, many centers relied on federal grants, but now the focus is on operators who can thrive independently.

Bridges explains, “When underwriting a center, we factor out pandemic grant money to ensure long-term viability. Investors need to pay attention to tenant resilience—especially as federal aid is phased out.”

For investors, this makes tenant stability a critical factor. SIG’s research highlights the importance of partnering with operators who are self-sufficient and able to provide stable cash flows. The right tenants will ensure a robust return on investment in a post-pandemic world.

3. Dual-Income Households & the Rising Demand for Reliable Childcare

With both parents working in most households, childcare has become a necessity. This societal shift has transformed early education facilities into essential infrastructure, especially in suburban areas where childcare options are scarce.

“Childcare is no longer a luxury—it’s essential for dual-income households,” Bridges emphasizes. “Investors who cater to this need are not only filling a market gap but also providing a vital community service.”

Investors who develop or repurpose properties into early education centers are addressing a growing societal need while securing solid investment returns. Facilities offering full-day programs that align with parents’ work schedules are in high demand, making them attractive both socially and economically.

4. Economic Resilience & Stability

One of the most appealing aspects of investing in early education is its economic resilience. Unlike other commercial real estate sectors that experience fluctuations, early education remains a steady and essential service. Parents consistently prioritize their children’s education, even in tough economic times.

“Early education is a stable product type with growing operators nationwide,” says Ryan Sompayrac, SIG’s Investment Sales Advisor. “We’re seeing expansion and development in the number of operators and facilities in the education space, making this sector a solid choice for growth-oriented investors.”

How SIG Helps Investors Navigate the Early Education Market

At SIG, we understand the complexities of investing in early education. Our team offers expert guidance in identifying high-quality tenants who can operate independently of short-term financial aid. We closely monitor market trends and policy changes to help investors make informed decisions.

Bridges further highlights, “SIG’s national platform allows us to connect our clients with out-of-state buyers willing to pay a premium, helping them maximize their investment returns.”

By partnering with SIG, investors can confidently navigate the evolving landscape of early education facilities and capitalize on the rising demand in this sector. Whether you’re a seasoned investor or new to this market, our team is here to help position your investments for long-term success.

Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you achieve your financial goals.

Inflation continues to significantly impact the commercial real estate (CRE) market in the United States. It’s no surprise that high inflation rates coupled with increased interest rates has put consumer spending under pressure in recent months. Rising costs in goods, services, and gas has already had far reaching consequences in the CRE space. At SIG, our Investment Advisors are aware that as prices rise, while we may face challenges, significant opportunities continue to emerge for investors, developers, and tenants. We’re paying close attention to the impact of increased insurance costs in the United States and the effects of rising inflation on the market.

Inflation’s Impact on CRE

Rising Construction Costs: One immediate effect of inflation on the CRE market is increased construction costs. With construction costs expected to rise by as much as 6% this year, prices for raw materials like steel, lumber, and concrete are soaring, raising the cost of new development projects. This can delay or halt new construction, tightening the supply of commercial properties and driving up rental rates for existing properties. For example, in the industrial sector, average net rents are projected to increase at a pace of 5% over the next three years.

Higher Operating Expenses: Inflation also affects day-to-day operating expenses, including utilities, maintenance, and labor costs. Property owners may pass these costs along to tenants through higher rents or operating expense pass-throughs, impacting tenant retention and leasing activity. Proper underwriting and market knowledge is where brokers like SIG can add value to help investors see around the corner. If you know what can happen, you can prepare for it.

Interest Rates and Financing: As inflationary pressures mount, “the Federal Reserve’s decision to maintain the target interest rate at 5.25%-5.50% reflects a cautious strategy in the face of inflation”, reports The Global Treasurer. With current interest rates potentially near their peak, investors are anxious for a rate cut. High interest rates have large impacts on new acquisitions and refinancing of existing properties, slowing down transaction volumes in the CRE market.

Opportunities Amidst Inflation

Despite these challenges, there are opportunities for savvy investors:

Adaptive Reuse Projects: With new construction costs rising, adaptive reuse of existing buildings can be a cost-effective alternative. Converting underutilized or obsolete properties into new uses can provide investment opportunities while mitigating high construction costs.

Strategic Investments: Investors can take advantage of inflation by focusing on resilient property types and locations. For instance, industrial properties, in high demand due to the growth of e-commerce, may offer more stable returns compared to other sectors. Our team of Investment Advisors are experts in assisting investors make strategic investment decisions that will maximize the performance of their portfolios.

Value Retention in Hard Assets: Commercial real estate tends to retain value better than some other investment types during inflationary periods. Investors seeking to hedge against inflation might find CRE attractive, as it provides income through rental payments over a longer term period, and has a stronger chance of potential appreciation in property value.

Rising Insurance Costs

The country is facing unique challenges regarding inflation, particularly in insurance costs. The impact of climate change has made multiple regions prone to natural disasters such as hurricanes, floods and tornadoes which is significantly impacting insurance premiums.  According to the credit rating firm, AM Best Co. Inc, commercial real estate insurance costs skyrocketed to nearly five times the national pace. Inflation exacerbates this issue in several ways:

Specifically, investors in the Southeastern USA, or those looking to invest in the region, need to be aware that rising insurance costs exacerbates the issue of inflation because of the rise in hurricanes and floods. Inflation increases costs of materials and labor, thus the cost of repairs to damaged properties rise. High risk areas carry higher insurance premiums which drive up operating costs and impact bottom line profitability.

As advisors, we understand that rising insurance costs can influence investment decisions, as higher operating expenses may affect the attractiveness of certain properties or markets. Investors might seek regions with lower insurance costs or properties with robust mitigation measures to reduce risk and control expenses. Our wide range of inventory allows our expert Investment Advisors to recommend assets that fit your risk profile and investment goals.

While rising costs and interest rates pose challenges, strategic investment, and adaptive management can help mitigate these impacts. In the disaster prone regions, the added dimension of escalating insurance costs requires careful consideration and proactive risk management.

At SIG, our Investment Advisors are well-versed in navigating the complexities of the current inflationary environment, providing insights and strategies to help our clients make informed decisions and capitalize on opportunities in the commercial real estate market. By understanding the nuanced effects of inflation and employing targeted investment strategies, SIG remains committed to delivering value and stability to our clients amidst the evolving economic landscape.

When we say SIG is a values-driven business, this really comes to life with SIGives, our charitable giving arm. Through donating a combination of our time, energy, and treasures, we acknowledge that beyond the commercial real estate bubble, there are bigger things that require our attention, and that with knowledge comes responsibility.

This idea that SIG is bigger than any individual, and should have a positive impact in the world, but most significantly, within the communities where we work, predates the founding of the company. Back in 2010, when Chris and Liz Sands started SIG in Santa Monica, CA, they infused their own values associated with giving and service into the company’s DNA. They recognized that real estate brokerage can often be very self-focused, overly individualistic, and cut-throat, core traits that they wanted to avoid and why they wanted to do things differently with SIG. This alternative way of looking at the world and doing business has taken hold at SIG and has become such a fundamental pillar in our success, that the quarterly community outreach projects are no longer mandated but rather motivated and self-propelled by each of our current seven offices.  

“SIGives is absolutely the epitome of our culture and values, particularly collaboration, gratitude, and giving back. On more than one occasion, I’ve heard from candidates and new hires that the SIG culture and SIGives sets us apart and is a key reason why people want to work for us,” says Liz Sands, SIG co-founder.

SIGives Today

While we donate our time as part of SIGives, we also know that many of the organizations that we work with need more than just volunteers which is why we give a percentage of our revenue to organizations that are working to improve the communities in which we operate. In 2022, we proudly hit the milestone of $1 million donated in a year. 

When it comes to giving our time, each office location comes together quarterly for a day of giving back where we spend time volunteering with the causes closest to our hearts in our local communities. Recent examples are a local animal shelter in Austin TX and a beach clean up in Charleston, SC.  

Finally, it’s important to us that SIGives extends to our own team members. When someone has a cause that is near and dear to them, they just need to ask and we contribute to any charitable initiative that our team member is involved with in their personal capacities. 

SIGives in 2024

Our recent SIGives office activities included:

• Cleared invasive plant species from several acres of Valley Forge National Park – Philadelphia, PA
• Beach clean up on Sullivan’s Island – Charleston, SC 
• South Florida Broadcaster’s Celebrity Golf tournament in association with the My Family Matters foundation – Fort Lauderdale, FL
• Volunteered at Central Texas Food Bank – Austin, TX

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Events we are involved in this year: 

• We’re a headline sponsor of the Special Olympics Bocce Bash – Charleston, SC 
• Habitat For Humanity – Austin, TX
• CHOP event, Philadelphia, PA

Habitat for Humanity and the Special Olympics 

Long-standing beneficiaries of SIGives are Habitat for Humanity and the Special Olympics. Working in real estate, our support for Habitat for Humanity is apt. At ribbon-cutting ceremonies for newly built Habitat homes, we have met the new residents of homes we have helped build, which gives us our team a humble reminder of what real estate is really about and continues to fuel our passion for what we do. 

With Chris and Liz’s backgrounds as competitive athletes, the Special Olympics holds a special place in our hearts  – we believe that everyone should have access to the benefits and enjoyment that sports and competing gives you. Our teams have volunteered at games and we’ve sponsored events that have resulted in hundreds of athletes being able to compete at the Special Olympics.

“Donations from companies like Sands Investment Group are the lifeblood of Special Olympics South Carolina. Their loyal support over so many years has made our mission possible, and while they may not know you by name, our athletes carry thanks in their hearts for your contributions.”   

• Sandye Williams, Director of Development, Special Olympics South Carolina

Our Future Plans for SIGives

Looking ahead, we intend to grow and expand SIGives leaning into our CRE capabilities as strategic advisors and deal makers, all the while maintaining the program’s organic, grassroots ethos, where everyone at SIG feels ownership and has the ability to shape our charitable activities. We are honored to work with the organizations we do and proud of how SIGives continues to bring to life our culture, our values-based approach to CRE brokerage, and the SIGnificant difference you experience when choosing SIG.

In the ever-evolving Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) landscape, staying ahead of changing consumer behaviors is not just an advantage—it’s a necessity. Today’s QSR properties are not merely about fast food; they’re about smart, sustainable choices, technological advancements, and a commitment to quality that resonates with a new generation of consumers. It’s also becoming increasingly evident that in this dynamic arena, the role of informed, expert guidance cannot be overstated. This is where our team of product-type specialists come into play, offering expertise and insight into the QSR investment landscape, ensuring our investors are not just keeping pace but actually setting the pace in the industry. Read more →

Opportunities abound for self-storage, making it an asset class that shouldn’t be overlooked. This holds especially true for investors seeking to compound wealth and grow the net worth of their portfolio because of the flexibility and adaptability of the asset. Unlike other, more fixed-use type asset classes, self-storage can take on many different shapes, meaning the property can be quickly and easily adjusted depending on location, local needs, and changing market conditions.   Read more →

January 17, 2024 – Atlanta, GA |  In the dynamic landscape of commercial real estate, the industrial market stands out as a sector that is both susceptible to threats and brimming with opportunities. Working exclusively in the Industrial store asset class, SIG Investment Advisor Solomon Colvin III has a good pulse and keeps a close eye on industry trends and data. With changing consumer preferences and advancements in technology, Industrial operators and investors alike must navigate a rapidly evolving market to stay competitive and capitalize on emerging trends. Read more →

Charleston, SC (August 15, 2023) – For the fourth time in a row, Sands Investment Group (SIG) is elated to report today that they have made the Inc. Magazine’s list of America’s Fastest-Growing Private Companies. The annual Inc. 5000 list is the most prestigious ranking of the fastest-growing private companies in America. Determination paired with data-driven advancements allowed for growth in both physical presence in the community and the scope of the success of the company’s pursuits.  Read more →

July 31, 2023 – Atlanta, GA |  In the dynamic landscape of commercial real estate, the convenience store market stands out as a sector that is both susceptible to threats and brimming with opportunities. Working exclusively in the convenience store asset class, SIG Investment Advisor Matthew Riznyk has a good pulse and keeps a close eye on industry trends and data. With changing consumer preferences and advancements in technology, convenience store operators and investors alike must navigate a rapidly evolving market to stay competitive and capitalize on emerging trends. Read more →

The market is shifting – what now? Despite the continuing rise in interest rates and the uncertain effects it will have on the economy, we believe certain sectors and markets are uniquely suited to thrive. You just need to know where to look. Read more →

AUSTIN, TX – Sands Investment Group (SIG) recently closed on Sky Ridge Plaza, a sprawling 141,000 SF shopping center with restaurants, stores, salons, and entertainment options. This establishment is located in Round Rock, TX, just outside one of America’s hottest investment markets, Austin, TX.  Read more →

Charleston, SC (August 16, 2022) – For the third time in a row, Sands Investment Group (SIG) is elated to report today that they have made the Inc. Magazine’s list of America’s Fastest-Growing Private Companies. The annual Inc. 5000 list is the most prestigious ranking of the fastest-growing private companies in America. Determination paired with data-driven advancements allowed for growth in both physical presence in the community and the scope of the success of the company’s pursuits. 
Read more →

July 29, 2022 – By Sands Investment Group (SIG) – Despite rising interest rates, inflation, and geopolitical instability, SIG Early Education investment experts remain optimistic about the market for the remainder of 2022. Read more →

To understand whether cap rates are moving, one must first understand their influence on the world of commercial real estate investing. A cap rate, or capitalization rate, is considered a real estate valuation measure that plays a role in comparing different real estate investments. The cap rate calculation is the annual net operating income (NOI) ratio to the asset’s market value. This provides the rate of return for professionals to use in comparison.

Now more than ever, the importance falls on the movement of these cap rates. In a year like 2022, it can seem like nothing is certain in the world of investments. However, understanding this valuation can give you insight that benefits your financial decisions in the long term. Learn more with Sands Investment Group to get started.

What Factors Affect Cap Rate?

As in the rest of the world of investing, specific factors can influence cap rates. It comes down to three main options that can make this number change. The first of these is macro-level economics and demographics. Next, the micro-level market influences come in. Finally, the property type plays a role in changing the cap rate.

By seeing the influence of each of these factors, it is understandable that cap rates can vary by the area you are observing. However, the market as a whole maintains a similar direction depending on the macro-level economics of the country and the world.

How Can The Cap Rate Move?

The movement of cap rates depends on the factors that affect the quantities included in the ratio. The direction of cap rates is considered cyclical as they go up and down depending on how the market looks at a given time.

To see how the cap rates are currently moving, you have to look at the state of the market. Take interest rates, for example. When interest rates are low, you provide lower payments, allowing for lower monthly debt payments on a given property. The cap rate drives down by increasing the purchase price in the cap rate equation. Thus, when interest rates are low, generally so are cap rates. When interest rates are high, the cap rates usually rise as well.

Stephen Plourde of Sands Investment Group explains that buyers expect increased cap rates across multiple product types as a direct result of the finance-ability of NNN deals, precisely because of the recent and anticipated rise in interest rates.

As we look at the current market, Plourde explains that there are still 1031 exchange buyers at aggressive cap rates similar to the last 24 months; however, there is a disconnect between buyers and sellers, specifically when a buyer requires financing. “Smart sellers will sell their properties more quickly in today’s market when they recognize that the market has shifted. They must work collaboratively with their Investment Advisor to price their properties with a forward-looking approach,” says Plourde. Looking in the rear-view mirror will lead to sellers missing the buyers looking to transact in the 3rd and 4th quarters of the year.

Learn More With Sands Investment Group

Understanding cap rates is essential as you enter the world of commercial real estate investing. That is why you must work with a company with the research and data-driven expertise to back it. At Sands Investment Group, our team is ready to get you started from the beginning to help you make impactful deals. Don’t waste any time, and get started with us today! There is always more to learn as cap rates move and change.  Learn more about investing in commercial real estate with Sands Investment Group today. Call 844.SIG.NNN or find out more on our website.

It takes more than the desire to grow your financial portfolio to start investing in commercial real estate. The savvy investor conducts a lot of research into the most profitable types of commercial properties before making any decisions. It’s essential to know with certainty that you will be able to give your investment total commitment. 

Read more →

Are you looking for a way to achieve significantly higher real estate values? A sale-leaseback is a financing tool that allows property owners to sell their real estate assets to another buyer as they sign a long-term lease to be the tenant, securing the location in the process. Simply put, the seller of the asset becomes the lessee as the purchaser becomes the lessor.

In the current state of the market, the sale-leaseback is becoming more prevalent across industries. With the numerous benefits that come with it, this is no surprise. Sands Investment Group is here to provide you with the basics of a sale-leaseback, so you can decide whether it is the right fit for your commercial real estate investment decisions.      

Who should consider using a sale-leaseback? 

Often, the most common participants are builders or companies with high-cost fixed assets, in this case, commercial real estate. It allows these people to use the cash they invested in commercial real estate in other ways while still needing the asset to operate the business. 

Does this sound like a financing tool that could benefit you and your business as an investor? Sands Investment Group could be the resource you have been looking for to start.  

What is the process of a sale-leaseback? 

Understanding what a sale-leaseback looks like is one thing, but going through the process is another. At Sands Investment Group, we break down this process into three steps. 

1. Evaluate the Business 
2. Market Analysis 
3. Structuring a Lease

As the overarching tasks, each of these steps breaks down into extensive research tied to the characteristics of your specific case. Find the details here. 

What are the benefits of a sale-leaseback? 

The benefits of a sale-leaseback are broken down into that of the original seller and the purchaser. It creates a mutually beneficial agreement that creates opportunities for both parties to see positive impacts in their financial pursuits.  

For the original seller, one of the first benefits to consider with a sale-leaseback is that it is an alternative method of raising capital. In the instance of a loan, the company must repay the money, making it appear on their balance sheet as debt. With a sale-leaseback, the liability on the balance sheet decreases, while the current assets will increase. It does not present the same appearance of debt in the long-term overview of the business.   

Along with the benefits present on the balance sheet, sale-leasebacks give you the chance to grow your business with ease. This means you can use the capital to open other locations, expand the current company, or acquire another business or real estate property. As you grow, the volatility risks of owning the asset decrease with this method.  

On the other hand, the purchaser can expect benefits as well. From the start, they achieve ownership of a cash-flowing asset that also happens to be backed by a long-term lease. They also know that the long-term lease is tied to someone who wants to be a tenant and continue to utilize the property because of how a sale-leaseback originates. As a result, the purchaser can deduct the property’s depreciation expenses from their income taxes. 

Find the perfect sale leaseback listing for you by looking at the active inventory Sands Investment Group has to offer. 

Work With Sands Investment Group 

The sale-leaseback may be the financing tool you’ve been waiting for to expand your business. Now that you know the basics, it is time to take the next step. Sands Investment Group has experience in all types of commercial real estate to help you navigate leveraging your existing assets for more capital to fund future investments. 

At Sands Investment Group you can find highly personalized client services with an extensive network of investors to help you get started on discovering more about sale leasebacks. Call 844.4.SIG.NNN or find out more on our website.      

Are you interested in investing in commercial real estate? Investing can be crucial to an individual’s financial goals by offering financial security now and in the future. Investing can also allow you to increase your wealth over time as the value of the product increases. With the help of an advisor, you can begin building upon your real estate portfolio. Commercial real estate can offer a passive income with a premium return. 

Owning real estate assets may also allow for resale potential if the situation arises. If you are starting your commercial real estate investment journey, Sands Investment Group has the resources to help you confidently make investment decisions.

What is Commercial Real Estate?

Commercial real estate is different from its counterpart in residential real estate. Commercial real estate, or commercial property, is space used to conduct business, whereas residential real estate is used for living purposes. The commercial real estate industry is intended to generate a profit whether it be from capital gains or rental income. 

To invest in commercial real estate, an investment advisor can give you an overview of each category’s performance, supply, and demand. Then, you can choose what type of commercial real estate works best for you.

Types of Commercial Real Estate:

Commercial real estate can be placed in different categories based on the type of business residing in the space. You may also consider what the purpose of the property is when categorizing. These categories include multifamily, office, retail, industrial, hospitality, and special use. 

At Sands Investment Group, we specialize in the following commercial real estate product types:

• Automotive
• Convenience Store
• Dollar Store
• Drugstore
• Early Education
• Industrial
• Medical
• Office
• Owner-User
• Restaurant
• Retail / Big Box
• Self Storage
• Shopping Centers

Is it Sensible For Me to Invest in Commercial Real Estate?

Many people think of investments as stocks, bonds, mutual funds, or ETFs. However, investments can also be in commercial real estate.  There are numerous types of investments you can capitalize on in the realm of commercial real estate, and ultimately diversification is the key to managing your investment risk. However, successful acquisitions can vary due to multiple factors such as the economy and demographics. 

On the other hand, commercial real estate has proved to be a reliable investment during many market changes. To be successful with this choice of investment, you must set goals and decide what a commercial real estate investment could provide. 

What Type of Investor Are You?

Planning for your financial future entails deciding what the different choices will look like. During this time, you must analyze prior financial statements and determine what its current financial performance has the capacity to obtain. Then, when making investment decisions, you can take the time to evaluate time, risk, and value. This provides confidence in knowing that they will fit into your goals and future plans. Factors such as age, objectives, and tolerance to risk can be essential to what type of investor you are. 

After you determine the type of investor you are, it can help clarify how and why you should invest. Even if you have solid investments in place, you may find it wise to continue building your portfolio to meet financial goals. No two investment portfolios are identical. Investors can choose what options are best suited to their situation. 

Pros and Cons of Commercial Real Estate:

✓ Provide solid and predictable returns on investment over time.

X If not researched, potential risks of the market situation, such as oversupply.

✓ Provide a tangible asset.

X Can miss the property’s history of sales if not enough research is performed.

✓ Builds equity.

X Market cycles are constantly changing and do not last.

✓ Tax benefits from owning commercial real estate.

X Requires a commitment of time to upkeep.

✓ Commercial real estate assets have leverage.

X Maintenance costs may require professional help.

✓ Provide cash flow and more income.

X Requires a more significant initial investment.

Interested in Learning More About This Investment?

If you are interested in investing in commercial real estate, get in touch with a Sands Investment Group advisor to start your journey. Check out our current listings to see which commercial real estate investment would fit your needs. The opportunity you’ve been looking for might be one click away.  To learn more, get in touch with an expert today by calling 844.4.SIG.NNN or sending us an email at info@SIGnnn.com. 

Thinking of expanding your portfolio by investing in the car wash industry? Owning a car wash can be a profitable addition to your work. Many car washes are owned by small business owners who started their investment journey. In fact, only 10% of car washes are not owned by small business owners. It may be time to invest in the car wash industry and all the opportunities it has to offer. Sands Investment Group has the resources to help aid you in your purchase decision on why you should invest in the car wash industry. 

Reasons To Invest:

With summer just around the corner, the car wash industry will be in high demand.  According to onedesk, 66% of car owners who live in the U.S. will get their vehicle washed anywhere from one to two times every month. Car owners have decreased their use of at-home washes and have rather utilized car washing facilities. 

While there are factors that dictate your income such as location and size, you will be investing in a market that is highly demanded by consumers. Location of your potential car wash is an important factor in determining the pros and cons of a car wash ownership. Different types of car washes will also require different finances such as down payments and space. Investing in the car wash industry is appropriate when it meets your goals, but not if you would be uncomfortable with its upkeep and par value. 

While there are many factors to consider in your purchasing decisions, here at some potential outcomes when a car wash is run correctly:

Increase Your Income

Owning a car wash gives you an increased revenue as there is a high volume of customers. According to Hedges & Company, 2022 is estimated to have 289.5 million registered cars in the United States. 20,000 cars washed in one year can bring you an average revenue of $139,000 alone. On average, car washes charge $15 dollars per car. This would not include additional add-ons that may be available. Investors can make a large profit off of the recurring income that the predictable consumer demand brings to the car wash industry.

Growth 

Owning a car wash will provide a safe and profitable investment. When car wash owners see the increased revenue, many decide to open other locations. They may add on a gas station for sale if space is allocated. According to Brandon Gaille, approximately 65% of car wash stations also dispense gasoline. This would also add new opportunities for growth and increased revenue within your investment. With this eagerness, you can create your own car wash brand on numerous sites. 

Added Real Estate Asset 

Owning a car wash also adds to your real estate portfolio. When owning this car wash real estate you are receiving a passive income but also a premium return. Owning this real estate asset also offers a resale potential. After making your decision to invest in a car wash, you can decide to sell the real estate/business down the road to fund your retirement or bring in more profit. 

How To Invest:

If you are interested in investing in the car wash industry you have two options. You may purchase an existing car wash or start from scratch. However, if you start from scratch, a SIG Car Wash advisor can help you complete the following steps:  

• Prepare a business plan: decide if investing is right for you. 
• Pick a car wash business type: full-service conveyer enterprises, express drive-through sites, and self-service establishments with bays. 
• Pick a location. 
• Check location for zoning and local regulations. 
• Cover financing needs: Paying in cash or using funding to cover the investment purchase, upgrades, and expenses up to at least one year. 

Consult A SIG Car Wash Advisor

Thinking of investing in the car wash industry? The investment opportunities hold limitless growth. Join SIG at The Car Wash Show in Nashville, TN on May: 5/9- 5/11. Become an attendee or make an appointment with a SIG member at the conference! We will be located in booth #556.

If you’re looking to invest in the car wash industry, get in touch with a SIG advisor. Our experts can help you find the right car wash property for your portfolio. SIG is home to experienced brokers that are designated experts in all areas of CRE, including car wash real estate.

Among its listings, Sands Investment Group offers several car washes that are guaranteed by a large company or a dominant regional operator. These car washes are set close to major roads and offer favorable demographics such as nearby retail stores, companies, and universities. They also offer long-term triple-net (NNN) leases of 15-20 years and attractive cap rates that range between 6.25%-7.5%. Contact the team by calling 844.4.SIG.NNN or check out our current car wash listings to get started with your car wash investment.

Commercial real estate investors and owners have faced a series of challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic and those challenges will evolve. Nobody can predict the future, but we can get an idea of how things in 2022 will progress by looking at current CRE market trends.

While we can’t claim to be on the other side of the pandemic, the country is recovering. That means demographic and business trends will accelerate. When it comes to CRE investments, there will be an increased demand for certain assets as the year progresses. 

Savvy investors will consider CRE market trends when making decisions about where to put their money so they can take advantage of the more popular assets and how to look for opportunities among all asset classes.

CRE Market Trends to Watch

Here are 10 CRE market trends investors should watch for as we move into the Q2 of 2022 and look even further into the future.

1. Continued Market Recovery Post-COVID-19

The first CRE market trend to keep an eye on as 2022 progresses is the continued recovery of economic and CRE markets. That’s not to say everything will be on a constant upward slope. As current events affect prices, you can expect natural ups and downs. As we move further into 2022, we are getting closer to a “new normal” where the market will gain more stability and CRE investment opportunities will keep improving. There may be setbacks and flare-ups along the way, but trends indicate that they will be short-lived.

2. Evolving Retail Models

The way people shop has changed over time, which impacts retail property investment. During the early days of the pandemic, consumers were pushed to spend a lot more online. But now that people are routinely out-and-about again, consumers are returning to retail spaces for in-person shopping. That doesn’t mean online shopping will drop off. Sales have risen in both online and in-store channels, so consumers seem to want more of both types of shopping.

In-store sales are rebounding for retailers because shoppers want to see their buying options in person. Leading to reduced vacancy rates in brick-and-mortar retail spaces, good investment opportunities in the retail property sector will increase and capital for financing will be readily available.

3. Self-Storage as a Popular Asset

Self-storage is a very popular asset to invest in now. A large number of American households rent storage units and demand remains high during all phases of an economic cycle. That means occupancy rates are stable and revenue streams are steady. Investing in self-storage is advantageous because it is somewhat passive and requires less capital. Check out our post on why self-storage investment is a smart move for your portfolio for a more in-depth look at this CRE trend.

4. Continued Growth in the Multifamily Sector 

In 2021, multifamily investment performed very well. Investors can expect that to continue through 2022. According to Crexi, multifamily was the fastest-selling asset type in 2021. The average closing times reached 123 days in Q3 and the market should see increased demand in the next year.

Factors behind this CRE market trend are low supply in single-family homes due to construction limits, price competition along with household formation. The economy is growing, leading to the formation of new households looking for housing. Along with household formation, growth is being driven by people looking for quality multifamily housing with more space to accommodate growing families and working from home.

5. Increased Interest in Senior Housing

Senior living, skilled nursing, and residential health care facilities were heavily impacted by COVID-19. Infections limited move-ins and occupancy of those facilities dropped. However, occupancy rates started increasing at the end of 2021 and will continue to rise as a CRE market trend in 2022. Full recovery may not happen this year, but investors should start considering this asset class again.

6. Changes in Office Space

Due to the pandemic, there is an existential change in the way people view workspaces. Working from home shifted attitudes about working in an office, making some investors wary of office properties. But that doesn’t need to be the case. While working from home seems to be here to stay, it will be part of a flexible hybrid model that also includes in-office work. 

The office will once again be the hub of business activity as people split their time between remote and in-person workplaces. As this setup becomes more common, occupancy in office spaces will be steadier. Demand for flex space, coworking space, and turnkey office space will also create investment opportunities. Forbes predicts that employers will look for larger, cost-effective locations while also demanding spaces with nice amenities and flexibility.

7. More Mixed-Use Space and Adaptive Reuse 

Investments in hospitality, office, and retail spaces will be smart moves as recovery from the pandemic continues, but changes to properties in those sectors may provide opportunities that will add value to portfolios in the future. Mixed-use zoning and adaptive reuse will be CRE trends to keep an eye on going forward. For example, an office becoming a mixed-use space may yield impressive returns in the future as the market continues to change.

8. Investors with Cash In Hand

Many real estate investment firms and private equity investors have cash ready. Many investors are making faster decisions and looking to invest capital before the cost of borrowing increases too much. They will be looking to put money into the hot asset classes like self-storage and multifamily, but they will also look for other places to invest their stockpiled cash, in sectors such as hospitality and retail.

9. Supply-Chain Issues Impacting Industrial Development

Manufacturers, logistics companies, and retailers are all seeking solutions for supply chain issues. These issues have been plaguing businesses for a long time, but it has just recently caught up to the commercial real estate market. 

Transportation and insurance costs are rising and space near seaports is limited and in high demand. For those reasons, things are moving inland for people building new facilities and working on development projects for expansions. There will be an increase in industrial properties in population centers, and in close proximity to highways and airports. 

10. The Proptech Revolution Continues

Technology and software will continue to grow in importance in the commercial real estate world. Property technology (proptech) is vital to many aspects of CRE investments for both brokers and landlords. Software platforms and databases are used for managing deals and portfolios and aid in property management.

Proptech is the key to making things more customer-centered as tenants expect online platforms to streamline operations and improve their user experience.

However, it’s important to keep in mind that technology alone won’t yield success in the commercial real estate industry. An online platform or database will never replace the industry knowledge of an experienced broker. Using property technology to connect people and systems simply makes things more efficient, which drives revenue.

Work with an Experienced Broker

If you’re an investor looking to take advantage of the current CRE market trends and grow your portfolio, get in touch with a SIG advisor. Our experts are uniquely positioned to help you get the most out of your investment. We have brokers that are designated experts in each CRE product type so you can explore the current trends within each specific asset type.

Want to learn more? Call 844.4.SIG.NNN or contact us here to talk about working with our team.

ATLANTA, GA – Sands Investment Group’s (SIG) Atlanta based automotive net-lease broker, Harry Archer and team featured in the WMRE 2022 Market Outlook.
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