5 Ways To Make Money From Your Commercial Property in 2024

7 mins read

Table of Contents

Investing in commercial property offers diverse opportunities to generate significant income. 

As the market evolves, understanding the landscape and adapting strategies accordingly becomes crucial for maximising returns. 

This guide explores robust methods for property owners to capitalise on their investments, highlighting practical steps and market insights to enhance profitability.

Market Considerations

When investing in commercial property, several market factors must be considered to ensure the success of any revenue generation strategy. 

These considerations include:

Economic Conditions

The broader economic climate significantly impacts commercial property investments. 

In periods of economic growth, commercial spaces, particularly in retail and office sectors, tend to perform well due to increased business activity. 

Conversely, during economic downturns, property owners may face challenges such as higher vacancy rates and reduced rental income. 

Staying informed about economic forecasts and preparing for market fluctuations is crucial.

Location Dynamics

The location of your property dictates its appeal to potential tenants and the type of income it can generate. 

Urban centres generally offer higher foot traffic and visibility for retail spaces, while suburban or industrial areas might be more suitable for warehouses or manufacturing facilities. 

Analyse the demographic and economic data of the location to identify the most lucrative use of your property.

Emerging Trends

Keeping an eye on emerging market trends can provide a competitive edge.

For example, the rise of e-commerce has increased demand for warehouse and logistics spaces, while the shift towards remote working could change the demand dynamics for office spaces. 

Adapting to these trends by repurposing or upgrading properties can attract new tenants and secure longer leases.

Regulatory Environment

Understanding and complying with local zoning laws, building codes, and other regulatory requirements is essential. 

Changes in these regulations can affect the feasibility of certain types of developments or renovations, impacting your investment’s profitability.

Tenant Stability

Choosing tenants wisely is key to maintaining steady rental income. 

Prefer tenants with strong financial backgrounds and those whose businesses show resilience to economic shifts. 

Long-term leases with such tenants can provide stability and reduce the risk of income disruption.

Technological Advancements

Integrating technology such as energy-efficient systems or smart building solutions can increase a property’s appeal and functionality, potentially leading to higher rents and lower operating costs. 

Stay updated with the latest technological trends that could enhance property value.

By carefully analysing these factors, commercial property owners can develop robust strategies that align with current and future market conditions, thereby optimising the return on their investments.

5 Detailed Revenue Generation Strategies For Commercial Property

Solar Power Installations

Solar Panels

Installing solar panels on your property not only reduces energy costs but can also generate additional income through government incentives and the sale of surplus energy. 

Many companies are now choosing to go ‘green’, a solar PV installation can help a property become more appealing to potential tenants to attract a quicker tenancy and potentially higher rates.

Since the 1st April 2018, the move to require leased properties to have a minimum EPC rating of E also strengthened the argument for a solar PV installation, which contributes to an increased EPC rating.

A private arrangement can also be made for the electricity generated by the solar PV array to be sold to the tenant at an agreed rate, allowing landlords to receive a higher and quicker rate of return over the long term if buying outright.

Begin by evaluating your property’s solar potential, consult with experts to understand the initial investment, and calculate the expected returns considering local solar incentives.

Billboard Advertising

Utilising your property for billboard advertising offers a steady revenue stream and is an opportunity many might overlook due to digital advertising.

High-traffic locations are most profitable and by marketing your exterior walls and offering billboard placements to clients, you can generate a creative and potentially lucrative income stream.

Partner with advertising agencies to manage the logistics and legal aspects, ensuring your property meets local advertising regulations.

Renting Out Space

Office Space

Commercial properties may have empty space not being utilised that can be rented out to businesses looking for office, retail, or industrial space. 

To maximise occupancy rates, maintain the property well and adapt the spaces to meet the diverse needs of potential tenants. 

Consider short-term leases to increase flexibility and possibly command higher rents but bear in mind that long-term rental contracts can ensure steady additional income over a longer period of time.

This is perhaps the easiest and most traditional way to monetise your commercial property, regardless of the prevailing economic climate.

Whether your own a business premises that has additional space or have invested in commercial property as a third-party, renting out rooms and units can generate significant income.

There are several ways in which you can pursue this option too.

Firstly, you can rent out office space through long-term leases, securing regular tenants over a prolonged period of time. You can also look to rent out individual meeting and function rooms if you have the space, securing a steady stream of regular, short-term bookings.

Property Improvements

Enhancing your property through renovations can increase its value and attract higher-paying tenants.

While this is easier with residential property, commercial property can also benefit by understanding your clientele and managing your budget for this appropriately. 

Focus on modernising facilities and improving the aesthetic appeal to make your property more competitive in the market.

Tax Efficiency

Tax Return

Implementing tax-efficient strategies can significantly enhance net earnings from your property. 

There are several laws and items of legislation that enable commercial-property owners to minimise the amount of tax that they have to pay, reducing operational costs and optimising profitability over time.

One of the most effective and simplistic steps is to invest in your property as a company rather than an individual, as corporation tax rates are generally lower than those that are applied to people and sole traders. 

Consult with a tax advisor to understand potential deductions and tax incentives available for property investments and upgrades.

If you are optimising the returns available through any type of investment, you must become a knowledgeable and tax-efficient operator.

There are several laws and items of legislation that enable commercial-property owners to minimise the amount of tax that they have to pay, reducing operational costs and optimising profitability over time.

One of the most effective and simplistic steps is to invest in your property as a company rather than an individual, as corporation tax rates are generally lower than those that are applied to people and sole traders.

Although this may mean that you pay more in capital gains, your associated tax rate will typically fall by investing under a business name.

If you can apply the same principle and attention to detail to similar costs such as insurance, you can minimise your expenses and make the most of your final, rental yield.

Leverage Expert Advice and Insights

Engaging with real estate experts and gathering insights from seasoned investors can significantly enhance the success of commercial property ventures. Experts can provide advice on:

Market Analysis

Specialists in property market analysis can offer insights into which types of properties are most in demand in different regions, helping to guide investment decisions.

Risk Management

Understanding the potential risks associated with different types of commercial real estate investments, such as tenant turnover, property maintenance, and market volatility, is crucial. Experts can suggest strategies to mitigate these risks.

Legal and Tax Advice

Consulting with legal and tax professionals can provide crucial information on compliance, tax benefits, and efficient property management. 

This can include navigating complex property laws and understanding local tax incentives that could affect investment returns.

Technology Integration

Tech consultants can advise on the latest property technology that could increase efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance tenant satisfaction, thereby increasing the value of the property.

Incorporating expert advice can lead to more informed decision-making, helping to secure the longevity and profitability of your commercial property investments.

The Last Word

Investing in commercial property offers a diverse array of opportunities for generating income and building wealth. 

By understanding detailed revenue generation strategies, keeping a close eye on market conditions, and incorporating expert insights, property owners can maximise the potential of their investments.

Whether you are looking to venture into commercial real estate for the first time or aiming to expand your portfolio, staying informed and adaptable is key to navigating the complexities of the market.

Paul Inman

Paul founded 75Media in 2020 after more than 15 years managing UK-wide out-of-home operations. Prior to his years in OOH, Paul spent 10 years at the helm of branding and design agencies, both in the UK and Middle East, working with clients such as HSBC, Nike, First Direct and Ford.
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