In this issue

• Marketing Of A Commercial Or Apartment Building

​A new tenant and an investor share the same first impression of a commercial building or an apartment property. That first impression is crucial. Before marketing the property, think about the outside appearance. The “look” affects both tenants and buyers. The following is a checklist of first-impression items that a good property manager must use:.....(more)

• The Self-Storage Market Demand

One in ten U.S. households now rent a self-storage unit. The growing demand for self-storage in the U.S. is created by people moving (some 40 million people move each year according to U.S. Census data), and by various lifestyle transitions, such as marriage, divorce, retirement, a death in the family, etc. Recent surveys of self-storage companies indicate a positive trend in market demand and occupancy rate......(more)

• Financing A New Development

When an investor purchases land to build on, the next step is land development and financing. “Land development” cannot be precisely defined; generally, it refers to the physical, legal, and engineering processes needed to convert raw land to land (or lots) on which buildings can be placed.Land development can be classified into the following six stages:.....(more)

• Help With Investment Real Estate

When you have searched for new real estate investment opportunities, with values that have been changing, you know that finding and evaluating them is becoming more sophisticated and complex. More investors are turning to real estate consultants as a means of providing a sounding board for their ideas as well as expertise in the planning and construction stages for their projects......(more) Click Here For This Months Newsletter

In this issue

• How To Finance A New Land Development

When an investor purchases land to build on, the next step is land development and financing. “Land development” cannot be precisely defined; generally, it refers to the physical, legal, and engineering processes needed to convert raw land to land (or lots) on which buildings can be placed....(more)

• The Self-Storage Facility Investment

One in ten U.S. households now rent a self-storage unit. The growing demand for self-storage in the U.S. is created by people moving (some 40 million people move each year according to U.S. Census data), and by various lifestyle transitions, such as marriage, divorce, retirement, a death in the family, etc. Recent surveys of self-storage companies indicate a positive trend in market demand and occupancy rate. The increased demand for storage space outside the home include the larger number of apartment dwellers who do not have any storage space for their increasing amount of possessions–usually household goods, and outdoor recreational equipment......(more)

• The Marketing Of A Commercial Building Or Apartment

A new tenant and an investor share the same first impression of a commercial building or an apartment property. That first impression is crucial. Before marketing the property, think about the outside appearance. The “look” affects both tenants and buyers. The following is a checklist of first-impression items that a good property manager must use: ...(more)

• Owner Requirements For Effective Management/li>

Real estate investments can be set up to generate one or more types of returns: Cash flow to owners (yield or return on investment). Appreciation of owner’s capital (capital appreciation). Shelter of cash flow and/or other income from taxation (tax benefits). Preservation of capital (safety)....(more)

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• How Adding Value Means Increased Cash Flow

​​​Since the value of a rental property is based directly on the cash return, adding value means increasing cash flow. When small investors set out to increase real estate values, the steps are in upgrading houses, duplexes, triplexes, etc., enhancing the cash flow and therefore increasing equity when the property is sold.....(more)

• Factors To Consider For An Apartment Investment

When any particular apartment building is under consideration for purchase, there are a number of factors that should be considered. Here are some of the more important points:.....(more)

• ​​​​The Cancellation Clause In A Commercial Lease

Whether a rental market is weak or strong, lease negotiations can be difficult when the landlord wants concessions that are different from the norm. One situation that happens is when the owner of an office building or other commercial property intends to sell when market conditions improve, whether that occurs next year or five years from now. Another is the holder of vacant or underimproved property who plans to develop it whenever market conditions justify. In the meantime, these properties must be leased to generate sufficient cash flow to pay operating costs and debt service. Such an owner will be amenable to giving significant concessions, including a low rental, provided the landlord can cancel the lease during the term......(more)

• How Property Management Increases Value

Management of a building is not just handling problems as they arise and renting units, it is making the asset more valuable to the owner by concentrating on every aspect of the property. Some owners of very large income properties still do not take professional property management seriously and fall behind in values.......(more) Click Here For This Months Newsletter

This month's newsletter has just been released! Check out the latest tips for tenants and users of commercial real estate space. In this issue

• Controlling Property With A Purchase Option

A purchase-option contract lets the buyer-optionee purchase a property at a specific price within a certain period of time. If the option is exercised, a closing is held and the property is purchased at the price previously agreed upon. There is no legal obligation to buy the property. But, if the optionee does not exercise the option, the deposit paid to the seller-optionor is forfeited.The biggest differences between the purchase-option and direct ownership may be two advantages from the viewpoint of the investor: First, the short term (6 to 24 month) purchase option contracts can be an outstanding way to control property without assuming the responsibilities of ownership. Second, the contract enables the optionee to receive all of the benefits from appreciation in market value of the property......(more)

• Investing In Apartments

​​​​​​The demand for apartment rentals remains very strong, but good management has always been the most important point in increasing or maintaining annual operating profits. Being a skillful manager requires intelligent handling of the functions of buying and selling properties, rent collections, maintenance, leasing, controlling expenses, refurbishing, management accounting and more. All of this requires long “hands-on” experience in the field with plenty of assistance from the latest in operational and administrative hardware and software. Professional management companies usually do a much better job than owners and more than earn their fees. Here are a few tips on types of apartments and ways to invest in them.......(more)

• Acquiring Investment Land

Land is one of the top investments by real estate professionals. Before any building project can be planned, the land must be available. At all times, real estate assemblers are looking at and acquiring under-utilized sites within cities or in suburbs. Here are some ideas on how those professionals do it......(more)

• The Upkeep On Your Rental Property

Keeping your property in top condition is not difficult if it is a continuing effort. There will be a plan in place for making ongoing improvements by investing a portion of each year’s income. Failure to do this will result in a neglected property. Many investment properties suffer from improper care and neglect. Getting started on the program of enhancing the value should focus first on three areas. These three will immediately make an office or apartment building begin to stand out.......(more)

• The Multi-Screen Theatre In A Shopping Center

The key tenant in a shopping center is often a store from a nationwide chain that carries a wide variety of quality, brand-name items. But the multi-screen movie theatre may attract more people, more often than any type of store. Instead of signing just a department store as the anchor tenant, some shopping center owners and operators have decided that a movie theatre is a better drawing card for shoppers and have signed up both as key tenants. Either before the movie begins or after it is over, people can and will shop. Usually, all of the family members will come to the theatre, although not all together or at the same time. It has appeal for the whole range of spenders, from Mom and Dad to teenagers and their friends. By encouraging people to “get out of the house”, movies also encourage these people to combine a shopping trip with a few hours of movie entertainment.......(more)

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This month's newsletter has just been released! Check out the latest tips for tenants and users of commercial real estate space. In this issue

• Preparing A Loan Request Package

When preparing a loan request package for presentation to the lender, the real estate borrower must be as complete as possible the first time. Insufficient, imprecise, or incorrect data in a loan request package can mean a rejection for an otherwise attractive real estate loan. Following are suggestions on things to include with the loan request package.....(more)

• Creating An Apartment Sales Package

​​​​​​​​​When we are marketing your apartment property, we have a two-fold job facing us. First, we must persuade the prospective buyer to go out to see the property, then, second, get him to see it though your eyes, with its full potential fully realized. Creating the well-conceived descriptive sales “package” or report on the property can help to accomplish both of these aims.......(more)

• Matching Tenants To Apartments

Property managers must always think about the type of tenant that is most likely to reside in that particular building. For example, when apartments in a project rent for lower monthly amounts per year, tenants will be concerned primarily with shelter......(more)

• The Power of An Assemblage Option

The option is an extremely versatile investment tool that comes in a variety of forms and can be used for a variety of purposes. The best part of an option is that it gives the optionee (the party holding the option) control over property (in the sense of the right to acquire it) for a very small cash outlay......(more)

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This month's newsletter has just been released! Check out the latest tips for tenants and users of commercial real estate space. In this issue

• A Checklist For Apartment Investment

When any particular apartment building is under consideration for purchase, there are a number of factors that should be considered. Here are some of the more important points.....(more)

• How Adding Value Means Increased Cash Flow

​​​Since the value of a rental property is based directly on the cash return, adding value means increasing cash flow. When small investors set out to increase real estate values, the steps are in upgrading houses, duplexes, triplexes, etc., enhancing the cash flow and therefore increasing equity when the property is sold...(more)

• Condos- Development and Conversions/li>

​​​​​Most anything that can be subdivided to be sold or rented can be developed or converted to condominiums. When we say “condo” maybe the apartment might come to mind first. Then, you may think of the commercial office building that was converted to condominium offices. Less common are the other, unusual types of condo developments such as condo parking garages, boat marinas, and other properties that are usually rented. Here are examples.....(more)

• ​Investment Planning- What is Right For You?

​​​​​​A prospective investor may have a problem getting started with a real estate investment because of the great variety of properties that are out there. They may be fearful that someone will “sell” them something – something that is wrong for them. An answer to these problems can be an interview with an interested professional real estate broker who can act as a real estate investment counselor. Each prospective investor can be interviewed in depth to find out specific needs in an income property. At the same time their needs are being evaluated, the broker will also communicate what benefits are available in various properties and how to identify them.....(more)

• Commercial Real Estate Representation

When you have searched for new real estate investment opportunities, with values that have been changing, you know that finding and evaluating them is becoming more sophisticated and complex. More investors are turning to real estate consultants as a means of providing a sounding board for their ideas as well as expertise in the planning and construction stages for their projects. Today’s investor in real estate must have a grasp of market conditions and potential that is usually beyond their own available time to attain. Investors need assurance about the true condition of the market. With increased competition, the market place is becoming more complicated....(more)

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This month's newsletter has just been released! Check out the latest tips for tenants and users of commercial real estate space. In this issue

• Get Information Before Investing In Apartments

Apartment properties throughout the country are the most sought after rentals. Assisting new buyers with the purchase of a residential rental is the job of the commercial broker. When you are looking at different properties, we will furnish full information on existing and potential loans, income, expenses, etc., to help you make the right choice. .....(more)

• Insurance Covered By Owners & Tenants

Insurance coverage must be addressed by both landlords and commercial tenants. For the run-of-the-mill daily problems, a landlord must have the maximum coverage for the building and the tenant’s leases. The tenant must cover the business with coverage that will protect it. What if you have a small disaster that is easily repaired, but you lose a tenant because he was not covered for the damage inside the business? ..(more)

• Options – Versatile Investment Tools/li>

An option on real estate is an extremely versatile investment tool that comes in a variety of forms that can be used for a variety of purposes. The primary use of the option is that it gives the optionee (the party holding the option) control over property (in the sense of the right to buy it) for very little cash. It gives the most leverage and conserves cash, both very desirable for investors. An option gives the holder the right to buy a specific parcel of real estate at a specified price, on specified terms within a specified period. An option can be compared to (1) a contract of sale with a liquidated damage clause, (2) a sale with a nonrecourse purchase money mortgage, and (3) a lease containing an option to purchase.....(more)

• ​Shopping Centers – More Popular Than Ever

Shopping centers have been changing. Increased spending power in the population is supporting new mall construction and the renovation of existing centers. Now the newer and renovated centers are becoming more mixed use, with hotels and office buildings being incorporated into the plans. Larger malls are providing more than just shopping. We are seeing more cultural attractions, medical clinics, health clubs, spas, and other facilities locating there.....(more)

• Commercial Real Estate Representation

When you have searched for new real estate investment opportunities, with values that have been changing, you know that finding and evaluating them is becoming more sophisticated and complex. More investors are turning to real estate consultants as a means of providing a sounding board for their ideas as well as expertise in the planning and construction stages for their projects. Today’s investor in real estate must have a grasp of market conditions and potential that is usually beyond their own available time to attain. Investors need assurance about the true condition of the market. With increased competition, the market place is becoming more complicated....(more)

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This month's newsletter has just been released! Check out the latest tips for tenants and users of commercial real estate space. In this issue

• How to Choose the Proper Lease Structure

A lease is an integral part of many real estate investments. It should outline all the obligations of the tenant and of the landlord. This sounds simple, but many questions arise. If, for example, property taxes increase, does the tenant pay all of the increase or only part of it? If the property must be modernized, who pays for the improvement? Can the tenant be moved out during the renovation? If the costs of servicing the property rise, should the tenant pay none, all, or part of the increased costs? How should inflation be handled—with automatic rental increases? With increases tied to some index, perhaps the Consumer Price Index?........(more)

• Rising Rental Rates Make Apartments Most Popular

Many investors specialize in picking up run-down properties and renovating them for sale or lease. Profit can also be made in acquiring properties that offer extra land. It is sometimes possible to not only get your money back, but also make a profit on the sale of a remodeled house with a reduced amount of land (assuming the local zoning ordinances will so allow), while holding the additional land for long-term appreciation or building another house or small apartment on it. In addition, many larger houses that might otherwise be considered uneconomical can be trimmed down to accommodate a family seeking more spacious quarters. By reducing the structure’s surplus space, many sprawling houses can be made salable. It is also possible to buy a large house, remodel it to a duplex or more units (with zoning approval) and sell it with a good profit....(more)

• How To Choose Prospective Tenants For Commercial Centers/li>

Owners must think about vacancies when checking a prospective tenant. Will the tenant’s business survive? When you have a prospective tenant for a commercial center, you must consider whether that prospect would be a good tenant. There are two key standards to apply; (1) the prospective tenant’s financial stability; and (2) the prospective tenant’s potential for success.....(more)

• ​How Structure Your Lenders, Property Managers ​To Be A Service Joint Venture

Whether times are good or bad, lenders always have foreclosed properties in inventory. During a recession the inventory may be high. One of the problems that banks and insurance companies have is disposing of this real estate owned (REO). They are faced with the decision of whether they wish to dispose of the property immediately or hold it for a period of time to hope for an increase in value. They would like to see the value of the REO increase to equal the loan amount......(more)

• Your Comfort Zone For Loans and Investments

Each investor has a “comfort zone” about loans. The leverage seeker wants the largest loan that is practical. Others may have experience or training that calls for no loans at all. They must have the property free and clear. Most of us have a loan comfort zone somewhere between these extremes. Nearly everyone accepts the idea of some sort of mortgage. The use of OPM (other people’s money) makes sense....(more)

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• Determine Market Value With Appraisal

The purpose of any real estate appraisal is to determine the market value of the property being appraised. The handbook of the Appraisal Institute defines market value as; “The most probable price which a property should bring in a competitive and open market under all conditions requisite to a fair sale, the buyer and seller, each acting prudently, knowledgeably and assuming the price is not affected by undue stimulus. Implicit in this definition is the consummation of a sale as of a specified date and the passing of title from seller to buyer under conditions whereby: (a) buyer and seller are typically motivated: (b) both parties are well informed or well advised, and each acting in what he considers his own best interest; (c) a reasonable time is allowed for exposure in the open market; (d) payment is made in terms of cash in U.S. dollars or in terms of financial arrangements comparable thereto; and (e) the price represents the normal consideration for the property sold unaffected by special or creative financing or sales concessions granted by anyone associated with the sale.” If we put this another way, the value of a particular property is made up of the future benefits that the owner of the property can expect to receive from rental or other income. In determining the future benefits that an owner can receive from a property, the current use of the property is considered, and all other uses that it may be capable of in the foreseeable future. As an example, a property that is being used as farmland could be usable for a residential subdivision in a few years, but later might be usable as commercial or industrial sites........(more)

• Rising Rental Rates Make Apartments Most Popular

Many investors specialize in picking up run-down properties and renovating them for sale or lease. Profit can also be made in acquiring properties that offer extra land. It is sometimes possible to not only get your money back, but also make a profit on the sale of a remodeled house with a reduced amount of land (assuming the local zoning ordinances will so allow), while holding the additional land for long-term appreciation or building another house or small apartment on it. In addition, many larger houses that might otherwise be considered uneconomical can be trimmed down to accommodate a family seeking more spacious quarters. By reducing the structure’s surplus space, many sprawling houses can be made salable. It is also possible to buy a large house, remodel it to a duplex or more units (with zoning approval) and sell it with a good profit....(more)

• How To Control Property With The Least Expense/li>

In the world of investment real estate, multifamily housing is still the most popular type of real estate investment. Currently, it continues to account for nearly one third of real estate investment transactions. This has been the most popular type of investment because of rising rental rates. Investments in these properties are based on economic fundamentals. Lenders and investors closely scrutinize the financing of multifamily housing projects to be sure that the cash flows will cover expenses. The recession and the poor housing market has changed markets for new homes. But lower interest rates and lower prices have increased demand for new home purchases in some key areas. ....(more)

• Filling Vacancies In Office Buildings

Office buildings are excellent commercial properties to own. In certain areas, however, there are still a number of vacancies reported. One of the most important jobs of a leasing agent for a building with available space is to analyze other buildings to see if any tenant could be induced to move. Newer buildings may fill up at the expense of older buildings. Since new buildings cost more to build than the older ones, rents may be higher. The actual dollars-per-square-foot costs must be compared, along with other benefits that the tenant may receive, before a final decision is made by the tenant on staying or moving. Here are some of the items for comparison.....(more)

• Creative Management Ideas

Space Sharing Executive Suites- With the revolution in communications, building owners must keep up with the changing needs of the corporate tenant. Often the larger, well-organized businesses do not need the space that was necessary just a few years ago. Computers, faxes and e-mail have substituted for leased office space. Office personal are working from home or a small office near their home and coming into the office once in a while for a meeting. Managers are more willing to grant favorable lease terms to operators of shared space. The operator sometimes receives a monthly management fee for operating the shared space plus a portion of rent revenues over a certain amount. Tenants in an office suite are offered a private office within the suite that has a receptionist, secretarial help, conference rooms and other amenities. This can be a big saving for small space users or users who need a small office for only a short period of time.....(more)

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This month's newsletter has just been released! Check out the latest tips for tenants and users of commercial real estate space. In this issue

• Investing In Apartments – Who Is The Tenant?

The demand for apartment rentals remains very strong. Although most people favor detached home ownership, many in the population cannot afford a single-family home. A new buyer of apartments must think “management”.......(more)

• Upgrading Properties And The Benefits

Many investors specialize in picking up run-down properties and renovating them for sale or lease. Profit can also be made in acquiring properties that offer extra land. It is sometimes possible to not only get your money back, but also make a profit on the sale of a remodeled house with a reduced amount of land (assuming the local zoning ordinances will so allow), while holding the additional land for long-term appreciation or building another house or small apartment on it. In addition, many larger houses that might otherwise be considered uneconomical can be trimmed down to accommodate a family seeking more spacious quarters. By reducing the structure’s surplus space, many sprawling houses can be made salable. It is also possible to buy a large house, remodel it to a duplex or more units (with zoning approval) and sell it with a good profit....(more)

• How To Control Property With The Least Expense/li>

The Purchase-Option- A purchase-option contract lets the buyer-optionee purchase a property at a specific price within a certain period of time. If the option is exercised, a closing is held and the property is purchased at the price previously agreed upon. There is no legal obligation to buy the property. But, if the optionee does not exercise the option, the deposit paid to the seller-optionor is forfeited. The biggest differences between the purchase-option and direct ownership may be two advantages from the viewpoint of the investor: First, the short term (6 to 24 month) purchase option contracts can be an outstanding way to control property without assuming the responsibilities of ownership. Second, the contract enables the optionee to receive all of the benefits from appreciation in market value of the property....(more)

• How To Acquire Investment Land

Land is always at the top of investments by real estate professionals. Before any building project can be planned, the land must be available. At all times, real estate assemblers are looking at and acquiring under-utilized sites within cities or in suburbs. Here are some ideas on how those professionals do it.....(more)

• The Upkeep On Investment Property

Keeping your property in top condition is not difficult if it is a continuing effort. There will be a plan in place for making ongoing improvements by investing a portion of each year’s income. Failure to do this will result in a neglected property....(more)

Click Here For This Months Newsletter