You’ve seen and probably drive daily by a commercial real estate property that has been on the market for many months and possibly even years. While some properties are sold quickly, others can seem like they’ve been cursed. The act of selling commercial real estate actually begins the day you purchase the property. Here are some tips for finding highly prized real estate worth your investment dollars.

1. Inspires Creativity

Buyers like a property in which they can develop a vision. Choosing a commercial property that is easily customizable is one of the goals of any real estate investor. If you purchase a property with many small offices, it can be harder to see the big picture. But if you invest in a property that is open and the potential buyer can easily see the complete picture, it becomes easier to dream.

Look for properties that could serve many different types of business. Open floor plans are easier to work with than a building with a lot of interior walls.

2. Location

As long as there is crime, it will always be true that there are some locations people just don’t want to invest in. When looking at commercial real estate, don’t just look at the building. Look at the area it’s in. If it’s surrounded by a multitude of other empty buildings, that’s a big sign telling you people just don’t want to be there.

However, if you have knowledge that the area will soon receive grants or other types of funding to spruce it up, you might also land a steal by investing before the future projects are complete. Know the history of the area and the future of the area prior to making an offer.

3. Visibility

For retail spaces, visibility is the most important aspect of a commercial property. If you’re looking at a potential storefront, make sure it has an attractive facade and faces a busy street. Retail establishments located off the beaten path have a harder time finding success, and buyers know this.

If it is off the beaten path, does it have signage on the main path? Or, is it located in a historic area with lots of foot traffic? Those things can make the lack of frontage a little less bad if you can work out a good deal with the owner.

There are many factors to consider before purchasing commercial real estate. The biggest factor you’ll always want to consider is how easy will it be to resell when you’re ready?