Commercial real estate in Iowa can be a profitable investment venture. Commercial real estate properties have the potential to make considerably more income than an outgoing mortgage loan expense. However, before investing in Iowa commercial property for sale, it is important to conduct a commercial property analysis.

If you have never invested in Iowa office space or commercial land, obtain the services of a reputable commercial real estate firm. Commercial Realtors have the knowledge and experience to guide you through the intricacies of a successful commercial real estate transaction.

Before purchasing Iowa real estate commercial properties, be sure to spend time researching the following:

1. Where is the best location to invest in properties for commercial rental in Iowa?
2. What type of Iowa commercial property is a good fit for your finances, time, skills and investment portfolio?
3. What is the estimated income generated from an Iowa office rental?

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Purchase commercial real estate in Iowa located in areas of economic growth

The saying 'location, location, location' is key for commercial real estate property investments. Where the commercial real estate property is located will directly affect the property's income. Research Iowa commercial real estate listings' accessibility to major roads, area crime statistics, neighborhood appearance and local economic growth.

I recommend: CB Richard Ellis Hubbell Commercial publishes the 2008 Greater Des Moines Commercial Real Estate Market Survey, which includes data and development information for commercial real estate in Des Moines, Iowa. Joe Chodur, Hotz Realty provides helpful facts about Iowa demographics, including urbanization, industry, employment and economic statistics.

Invest in Iowa commercial real estate that best matches your available resources

There are several different types of commercial real estate property types: hospitality, industrial, office, retail, multi-family and land. When determining what type of commercial real estate property to purchase, evaluate your available resources, including your skills, abilities, time and finances. You may have the money to purchase a large retail property, but don't have the time to work with dozens of tenants; so analyze your resources before committing to an Iowa office lease contract.

I recommend: Search for office, retail, industrial, business, investment and land commercial listings at Century 21 Davenport and Associates. NAI Ruhl & Ruhl Commercial Company offers a wide range of services, including property management, tenant representation and landlord representation for commercial investors. Research Iowa City commercial real estate options at Streb Alberts Realty.

Buy Iowa commercial real estate listings that will generate a high return on investment

Carefully calculate the amount of money you project to make each month from your commercial properties Iowa investment. Keep in mind that in order to turn a profit, you will need to make more from tenants than your monthly mortgage payment. Analyze other nearby commercial real estate properties to determine their success in renting space and retaining tenants.

I recommend: Find a commercial property in your price range at Mel Foster Co., serving commercial real estate Davenport, Iowa and surrounding areas. WelshInvest specializes in commercial real estate investment services. Search for properties in a wide range of price points at Iowa Realty Commercial, providing services for commercial real estate Des Moines, Iowa.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Commercial real estate in Iowa is expensive, especially considering the large down payment usually required, closing costs and insurance fees. Don't forget to plan for property taxes, which can add thousands of dollars to your expenses depending on the city and state tax codes. Research local tax incentives and estimate your annual taxes before purchasing commercial land or office space in Iowa.
• •  To maximize your profits, purchase foreclosed commercial real estate in Iowa, which is usually sold below market price. Before purchasing foreclosed commercial properties, make sure the properties are structurally sound and well-maintained.