Investing in Canadian Real Estate

Want to Buy a Luxury Item That Will Help Generate Wealth? Look at Commercial Real Estate

2012-02-01T11:50:00.000-08:00

Canadians are flush with cash and eager to out do their neighbors, but could the hottest luxury item of 2012 also be the smartest financial move you can make too?

The talk of a “global recession” has been a bit overblown, especially here in Canada. Canadians have cash, and they are out to spend it. Designer clothes, fine wines, upscale dinners out, the latest gadgets, decor for homes, fancy new cars, and all the jewelry and accessories to go with it are all in high demand. Just 13 months ago, there were over 560,000 Canadians worth over $1 million and that’s not including their investments in private companies or real estate, making the real number a lot higher. This is also one that is expected to keep on growing at a rapid rate over the next 10 years.

So, you are making great money, have some equity in your home, you have the new car, the latest style clothes, and dine out at the trendiest spots - what’s left for getting one up on the neighbours and for bragging about at your next get-together? How about your own commercial building? Imagine being able to say ‘You know that new shopping mall across the street, I just bought that’. Then, you can enjoy rubbing your friends’ noses in the amazing returns you are getting while their savings and retirement accounts are barely sputtering along. It’s far flashier than yet another Rolex, and it will make you look intelligent too.

More importantly, a solid commercial real estate investment can provide a great passive income, without the need to sacrifice your lifestyle. Accumulating wealth is much more than looking wealthy. Wealth that can last a lifetime and even multiple generations will always be built upon two things: passive income and equity appreciation. Commercial real estate is one of the few vehicles that can truly provide this opportunity.

With tourism and foreign investment in Canada continuing to grow, investing in commercial real estate here is not just “cool,” but also one of the safest and smartest financial moves you can make. In June 2011, over 2 million tourists and business professionals visited the country from all across the globe. This increase in tourism, combined with increased spending and the growth of the retail sector in western Canada, will surely help to create great growth opportunities for commercial real estate investors in 2012, as well as the years ahead.

Do you want to learn more about how you can profit from commercial real estate in Canada, or get more information on some of the great opportunities that are available? Contact Howard today by phone at 866-986-8673 or email him right now at howardm@redevgroup.ca.

Thank you for reading.

Richard Crenian
www.redevgroup.com

The Effect of America's Economic War on Foreign Business and Its Impact on Commercial Real Estate

2012-01-30T08:10:00.000-08:00

How will Obama’s new war against Canadian businesses affect commercial real estate investments here at home?

Before you jet off to Florida on vacation this year, it may be wise to take note of the U.S. President’s economic warfare campaign, and think twice about where you spend and invest your money.

It seems more Canadians flush with cash are taking the trip south to enjoy the sunshine than ever before. Even in destinations like Deerfield Beach, Florida, which have seen many Canadian tourists before, almost every other car could be seen sporting a Canadian license plate this season. Still, despite being huge contributors to the U.S. economy and one of the largest segments of investors in real estate, President Obama is still set on a path to punish and restrict the businesses which fuel this spending and investment.

After shutting down hope for the new Canada, Texas pipeline, Obama went on further to threaten Canadian businesses in his State of the Union address. Not only would he plan to levy hefty taxes on foreign companies attempting to do business in the U.S., he plans on penalizing any U.S. companies hiring foreign workers, which would obviously include Canadians. Besides the ego sting from being a huge slap in the face from one of our longest standing allies, we need to seriously think about protecting our own financial interests. Does it really make sense to be contributing to the person’s paycheck that is trying to take money out of your pocket?

In the short term, this could result in a lot more Canadian spending and investment at home. More money spent at Canadian retailers and salvaging the job shortage here and boosting the profitability of shopping centers, will certainly pay off for commercial real estate investors.

Clearly, a mentality and strategy of cutting off outside trade, collaboration, innovation, and investment is not a wise economic move. It could also hold back growth for our southern cousins even further. The good news is that this will only make Canada even more attractive for foreign investment. A growing number of foreign corporations and individuals moving in and visiting will only boost retail spending and profits, and drive up the value of commercial real estate in Canada even further.

This makes the next several months the perfect time to invest in commercial real estate in Canada, in order to lock into amazing cash flow levels, big profits, and growing equity. It will be great to see our neighbors turn around their economic situation and the whole world return to a more prosperous state. However, for the foreseeable future, the best investment opportunities appear to be at home amongst commercial retail properties in particular.

To find out more about profiting from commercial real estate in Canada, or to get more information on some of the opportunities that are available among shopping plaza investments, contact Howard today by phone on 866-986-8673 or via email at howardm@redevgroup.ca.

Thank you for reading.

Richard Crenian
www.redevgroup.com

What to Look for When Investing in Commercial Real Estate

2012-01-26T08:14:00.000-08:00

Canada offers many incredible commercial real estate investment opportunities, but that doesn’t mean mistakes cannot be made, or that every property is a good deal.

Whether you are a first time investor or you are investing in your 100th commercial property, these 6 mistakes could trip you up.

1. Failing to Diversify

Investing in commercial real estate is a great way to diversify your investments and savings. However, putting everything you have into one commercial property, especially a single unit one, or only investing in properties in one small locale can be equally as dangerous as having all of your money in stocks or precious metals. Consider investing smaller amounts into multiple properties, preferably ones that have multiple tenants. Also look into spreading your investments out in different areas.

2. Failure to Check Leases

It may sound basic enough, but even experienced investors sometimes breeze over leases and only look at what they are told a building’s income is. What if this is that one property where the seller lied about everything? What if all the leases are expiring? What if tenants are actually paying a lot less than is stated, or their leases run longer than you had hoped? This should all be verified before getting in too deep and spending money on the deal.

3. Not Reading the Fine Print on Financial Documents

If obtaining financing to leverage your next commercial investment property, it is crucial to read and make sure you understand all of the fine print. Besides adjustable mortgage rate fluctuations, you need to understand the potential recourse in case of default. Also, pay special attention to any pre-payment penalty clauses. On commercial loans, these can be notoriously complicated and lengthy, as well as expensive.

4. Room for Improvement

While you could benefit a lot from appreciation and growing equity, it is also smart to choose properties with potential for improvement and growth. This could be in the form of further development potential sideways or upwards, or making upgrades.

5. Buying at the Top of the Market

All real estate is local, so there are always opportunities for great investments. However, some areas are currently overheated and leave little room for growth and appreciation, while others have passed their peak and are on a long spiral downwards, along with the local economy.

6. Declining Sectors

While Canada is strong as a whole financially, some real estate sectors are definitely outperforming others. You need to know if the property you are considering buying is going to be in high demand in the near future or not. For example, the office sector has been extremely buoyant in Alberta over the last couple of years, but it is expected to see a decline in demand moving forward. Similarly, the industrial sector is pegged to see a big swing towards a demand in properties 50,000 square feet and above, while smaller ones may not be so hot. The most consistent demand going forward appears to be in shopping plazas.

Do you want to learn more about picking the best commercial properties in Canada, or get more information on some of the great opportunities that are on the market right now? Contact Howard today by phone at 866-986-8673 or email him now at howardm@redevgroup.ca.

Thank you for reading.

Richard Crenian
www.redevgroup.com

What to Look for In a Solid Commercial Real Estate Investment

2012-01-24T10:32:00.000-08:00

Are you ready to cash in on Canada’s great commercial real estate opportunities? Here is how you can pick a winning property that will maximize your potential returns…

Current Performance

While the future potential of a property is an important factor to consider, it is wise to avoid speculation, and instead choose a commercial property that is already producing decent returns. Anything on top of this in the future is just the icing on the cake. Canadian commercial vacancy rates are incredibly low right now, so if your prospective property is half empty, there may be deeper issues lurking under the surface you need to learn about. You should be able to find an investment property which is producing cash from day one. Make sure to verify leases as well, and do not simply take the seller’s word for it. The potential for increasing rents over the next few years will also need to be considered.

Potential to Expand/Improve

There is a lot of renovation going on among Canadian malls and office buildings today. A local shopping center may continue to produce returns steadily without improvements purely because of location, but it is certainly wise to look for commercial real estate that has room to grow. It can be difficult to locate properties with space to spread out horizontally, but you may be able to build up vertical. Expansion can be a tricky subject, which is why you need to know the zoning restrictions in your particular area of investment.

Growing Area

While Canada as a whole is certainly doing far better than most of the world economically, there are obviously some areas which are doing a lot better than others. Just because you may have many years before retirement in which you will need to cash in on your equity, or actually need the additional cash flow to live on, does not mean you should gamble on your investments. The area you invest in should be doing well now, and have a bright outlook for the next five years. You should have a clear exit strategy, or have the option to stay in if things still look promising for the future. Major cities in western Canada are perhaps the most appealing, and outside of Vancouver and Calgary, cities like Edmonton hold a lot of promise with growth likely to last longer.

Growing Sector

What type of commercial real estate will you invest in? What types of properties are you most familiar with? Residential housing is still teetering on the edge, industrial properties can be a little tricky with big changes in the type of demand coming, and the office sector is predicted to dim slightly in the next 12 months (even though it has outperformed expectations over the last two years). This leaves retail real estate as the top choice for most commercial investors in the current market.

Do you want to learn more about how you can profit from commercial real estate in Canada, or get more information on some of the great opportunities that are currently available? Contact Howard Manley today either by phone at 866-986-8673 or email him right now at howardm@redevgroup.ca.

Thank you for reading.

Richard Crenian
www.redevgroup.com

An Increase in Americans Relocating to Canada Will Mean Increased Profits for Canadian Commercial Real Estate Investors

2012-01-20T11:04:00.000-08:00

While U.S. headlines have been full of stories of Canadians buying up foreclosure properties south of the border, there has also been an increase in the number of Americans moving north to Canada. This trend will ultimately result in better returns for commercial real estate investors in Canada.

The year 2011 saw a huge jump in the number of U.S. brands expanding their presence into the Canadian market. The new large department chains have been appearing in new markets all across the country, with brand names like Tiffany’s and Victoria Secret claiming their places, as well as entertainment giants such as the UFC. While their emergence has brought new jobs to Canada, there has no doubt been an influx of American executives moving in as well.

What is more interesting, and perhaps more important to Canadian businesses and commercial real estate investors, is the number of individuals packing up and making the move. Online forums are packed with enquiries about immigrating to Canada, and news organizations like the Boston Globe are reporting that families make the change in search of a better life here.

Why the move to Canada? Boston.com reported that the interest is partially driven by the housing market. Too frightened to jump into their local housing market, as home prices are predicted to continue to fall in many U.S. markets, some families are giving up on purchasing a home in the U.S. and are looking for a more stable economy in order to create a more secure financial future.

There are others who are making the move to Canada because of the growth in the job market. Recent official unemployment numbers in the U.S. have dropped to 8.5%, but it is common knowledge that a large part of this statistic is due to the fact that many individuals have simply given up on looking for employment and have ceased to qualify for continued unemployment benefits. Canada makes for an easy transition for many American families as the laws, language, and lifestyles are similar.

This influx of Americans is good for Canadian commercial real estate investors, as it will spark an increase in consumer spending. Relocating to a new country means acquiring new residences in Canada, furnishing homes, and acquiring other essential items. This new demand will produce greater profits and growth for retailers.

This increased growth in consumer spending will result in Canadian retailers expanding their operations, thus sparking an increased demand for commercial real estate. As retailers continue to grow, so too will the demand for retail commercial space.

If you want to learn more about how you can profit from commercial real estate in Canada, or get more information on some of the great opportunities that are available, contact Howard today by phone at 866-986-8673 or email him right now at howardm@redevgroup.ca.

Thank you for reading.

Richard Crenian
www.redevgroup.com

Canadian Retail Sales Are Expected to Surge - How Can You Take Advantage?

2012-01-18T13:05:00.000-08:00

Commercial real estate investors appear poised to see big benefits from increasing retail sales in Canada this year. The Bank of Canada is anticipating that consumer spending will account for two thirds of the country’s economic growth in 2012. More spending means more profits for retailers, more expansion and higher returns for commercial real estate investors with money in shopping centres.

According to Bloomberg News and a Nanos Research Poll, the 4th Quarter of 2011 saw consumer confidence in Canada increase from a two year low, with respondents reporting approximately an 11% rise in optimism.

What is the cause of the increased confidence? A recent report shows that 34% of Canadians expect their debt to decrease within the first 6 months of the year. On top of this, 36% (an increase of 4%) of Canadians expect local real estate values to rise during the same period. Less debt and more equity are the perfect combination of factors to stimulate increased consumer confidence and sustained spending.

The job market has not changed much, but there is still an abundance of jobs in Western Canada, and the Bank of Canada’s survey on hiring shows a jump of 7% in anticipated hiring to 45%. This will no doubt provide more disposable income for Canadians, and more job security.

Where are the best places to invest in commercial real estate for those who want to cash in on this upward trend? Canada’s western provinces continue to attract the most attention, with Alberta clearly standing out as the financial powerhouse of both the moment and the near future. However, looking beyond Calgary there are currently a number of great opportunities in Edmonton, which is perhaps better positioned for more sustainable growth from where it is positioned today.

We are definitely at a point in the market where great returns can still be had among attractive retail properties with high occupancy rates. These properties will still offer plenty of room for equity growth over the next 5 to 10 years.

There are many ways to invest in commercial properties depending on your goals and current financial position. Profiting from commercial real estate investment doesn’t have to mean jumping in alone, taking risks, putting your entire nest egg on the line, or over-leveraging yourself. Those new to commercial real estate investing will find a number of options which provide great security, fit your budget, and offer the benefit of expert advice and guidance. Whether you will be one of those who realize the best returns is up to you, and whether you will take advantage of this short window of opportunity before it closes is also up to you.

Do you want to learn more about how you can profit from commercial real estate in Canada, or get more information on some of the great opportunities that are available? Contact Howard today by phone at 866-986-8673 or email him right now at howardm@redevgroup.ca.

Thank you for reading.

Richard Crenian
www.redevgroup.com

9 Mistakes Made When Investing In Commercial Real Estate

2012-01-17T13:31:00.000-08:00

There are great returns to be found by investing in commercial real estate in Canada. However, in order to maximize your profits, investors must avoid these 10 critical mistakes.

1. Lack of Due Diligence

No matter how great a commercial property looks, you still must do sufficient due diligence. This does not just mean appraisals and environmental reports, but also estoppel letters from tenants to back up rental income as well as market research on the future prospects in the area.

2. Over Leveraging

Leveraging your investments can be smart and help to boost your returns and retirement savings. However, over leveraging yourself can mean little cash flow, and if you loose tenants, negative cash flow. Any number of consecutive market fluctuations or disasters can then rapidly put you in trouble and result in the threat of foreclosure and the loss of your capital evidence.

3. Putting All of Your Eggs In One Basket

Commercial real estate investment is a great way to diversify your portfolio, but you will also be wise to diversify your investments even further by getting into several commercial properties, or at a minimum investing in shopping centers with multiple tenants in different industries.

4. Lack of an Exit Strategy

Before you even consider putting pen to paper on a purchase agreement, you need to have your exit strategy in mind. Preferably, you would more than one option. Do not get in if you do not know how to get out.

5. Buying at the Top of the Market

This may not matter as much for those who are investing strictly for income, but it is always better to invest where there are good prospects for both income and capital growth. While the majority of Canada is attractive for commercial real estate investing, the most advanced investors are looking outside of super hot markets like Calgary to those with maximum growth potential and security, such as Edmonton, Alberta.

6. Failing to Plan for Taxes

With as much money as some make from commercial real estate investing, any taxes due do not bother them. However, it is still wise to choose investment vehicles which offer the maximum tax benefits, which can increase returns by double digits or better.

7. Messing Up the Math

Math may not be your favorite subject but it is essential to make sure you have accounted for all numbers before you invest in a commercial property. This should include all utilities and allowances for vacancy rates, even if they are minimal right now.

8. No Plan for Expansion

Savvy investors do not just plan to wait around for the market to lift the value of their investments, they look for opportunities to increase rents and property value. They also look for ways to ensure that there are opportunities for future sellers. You should watch out for zoning restrictions and parking limitations.

9. Not Seeking Professional Advice

You may already be an experienced investor who is well educated about commercial real estate, but before pulling the trigger, it is always wise to consult a local professional. They may be able to give you further insight from their years of experience, and the benefit of their resources and connections in the industry is not to be understated.

Do you want to learn more about how you can profit from commercial real estate in Canada, or get more information on some of the great opportunities that are available? Contact Howard today by phone at 866-986-8673 or email him right now at howardm@redevgroup.ca.

Thank you for reading.

Richard Crenian
www.redevgroup.com

Why You Should Invest In Canadian Commercial Real Estate In 2012

2012-01-13T10:47:00.000-08:00

For those looking for the best place to put their money for the optimal combination of great returns and security, commercial real estate in Canada sure seems to be a top pick this year. Let’s take a look at 10 reasons why it stands out as a great choice.

1. Income & Equity Growth

Investing in commercial real estate in Canada in 2012 does not just offer above average returns from rental income (monthly cash flow), but great prospects for equity growth as well. This is due to high demand and low inventory levels.

2. Diversity

Do you desperately need to diversify your portfolio? Even if you are achieving outstanding returns through another channel, too much of one good thing can still be too much. It is much wiser to protect yourself now by diversifying.

3. Financial Stability

There is really no question that Canada is amongst the strongest financial and banking systems in the world right now. Weak economies in other countries can seriously affect returns both in terms of resale value, the ability to refinance in the future, and the value of the currency you are investing in.

4. Stable Government & Legal System

Buying commercial real estate in Canada offers many advantages over other so called ‘hot spots’. There may be attractive emerging markets out there, but many also carry legal risks or flat out repossession by foreign governments. This is not a good bet if you value your capital.

5. Growth

Commercial real estate in Canada’s western provinces is only anticipated to grow along with the economy and retail sales over the next 5-10 years. It is hard to find somewhere else that you can be as confident in. Look to shopping plazas, especially in Alberta, for the maximum potential in 2012.

6. Easy Management

There is really no sense in managing your own real estate investments, but even if you did want to, commercial real estate is normally far easier to manage than residential, due to fewer maintenance issues and longer leases.

7. Fewer Lawsuits

Sometimes the smart investment isn’t just about where the largest returns are, but about protecting your capital and income. Both residential real estate and investing in a business today carry high risks of lawsuits, both frivolous and justified. In contrast, commercial real estate owners have far less to fear.

8. Employment

Alberta, Canada enjoys one of the most robust jobs markets on the planet. As such, all types of real estate here are safer investments, and local retail spending will likely only increase returns further.

9. Hands Free

You can make money from being an active landlord, running a business, or even day trading, but they all require your daily involvement. In contrast, commercial real estate investing provides a truly hands free investment with passive income.

10. Everything Else Is Too Scary

Let’s face it; everything else is really far too scary to count on for returns and capital growth. It does not matter if it is stocks, precious metals, or putting venture capital into new start-ups, it is frightening out there.

Are you eager to find out how you can profit from commercial real estate in Canada? If you want to get more information on some of the best opportunities that are available right now, contact Howard Manley by phone at 866-986-8673 or email him now at howardm@redevgroup.ca.

Thank you for reading.

Richard Crenian
www.redevgroup.com

Alberta's Commerical Real Estate Market Is Booming. How Can You Capitalize On It?

2012-01-12T10:03:00.001-08:00

Experts from all sectors are predicting Alberta will continue to lead the Canadian economy in 2012. In fact, it could easily be one of the most attractive destinations on the planet for investing, especially when it comes to commercial real estate. So what is the best way to capitalize on this growth, and tap into the great returns other investors are already enjoying?

Between the strong energy backbone (anchored by the oil sands) to the solid financial system and influx of foreign businesses and consumer confidence, the only potential concern is that perhaps Alberta is recovering from the last 3 years or turmoil a little too well. However, when you dig deeper, the economic growth rates here are not off the charts. They are positive, but not so hot that they suggest another bubble is imminent. Predictions from the Royal Bank of Canada put growth for 2012 at 3.9%, following a modest 4% for 2011. If anything, the last few years have been a minor correction or a part of the aftershock and fallout from the disasters in other countries around the globe.

Besides energy, what Alberta has that really makes the difference going forward is jobs. This is something that has been a huge roadblock to financial recovery in other countries. Jobs are plentiful here and pay is good, meaning disposable income levels remain strong. In fact, retail spending far out performed the United States. HR experts are saying that the worst case scenario we would see a return to pre-bust conditions.

With continued migration into the province, expansion by Canadian companies, and an influx of foreign flight and investment capital, retail properties continue to be the most attractive for the majority of investors.

Investing in a shopping center offers many benefits. They provide both income and capital gains, built in diversity, simplicity, and are predicted to continue to provide above average returns for investors. These retail investments offer more cushion against economic fluctuations, especially when so many other types of investments in Alberta are tied to energy prices. While you will certainly want to employ the assistance of a professional property management firm to assist with maximizing your investment, shopping centers are pretty straight forward and don’t require you to gamble on a type of investment you don’t fully understand.

Alberta is a large province, so where should commercial real estate investors focus their search for the best opportunities? Calgary, Calgary, Calgary is all we seem to here in the news, and although it is certainly a great place to invest, it often pays to stay ahead of the pack instead of following in the footsteps of those who have already scooped up the best deals. This is why the more knowledgeable commercial real estate investors are now setting their sights on Edmonton. In contrast, Edmonton is far more affordable in many ways, leaving more room for profits and returns. It is also easier for smaller, private investors to enter without sacrificing security or growth prospects.

Want to learn more about how you can profit from commercial real estate in Canada or get more information on some of the great opportunities that are available? Contact Howard today by phone at 866-986-8673 or email him right now at howardm@redevgroup.ca.

Thank you for reading.

Richard Crenian
www.redevgroup.com

Where Is the Best Place To Invest In Commercial Real Estate for 2012?

2012-01-06T13:28:00.000-08:00

Are you looking for the best place to put your money in 2012? Whether you are seeking a passive income investment, or rapid growth for your nest egg, commercial real estate offers both. Where will you find the best opportunities, and what are the best vehicles for realizing the maximum returns all without sacrificing the security of your capital?

There is no question that Europe and the Middle East remain on incredibly shaky ground and there is no telling exactly how it will play out yet. The United States continues to fumble around trying to find solid footing, especially when it comes to jobs. Fears about the Chinese economy threaten Asia, and even has the potential to negatively affect Australia. This leaves Canada leading the pack in terms of financial stability, and ultimately the safest place for most to invest in commercial real estate.

Canada is a vast country and all real estate is local, so where are the best areas to invest? Canada’s western provinces have definitely been drawing most of the attention in the last 12 months, and are most likely to continue to benefit from the positive press. This will further drive up returns for commercial real estate investors, while solidifying the economic foundation here. Saskatchewan is showing great growth prospects, but it is definitely Alberta which is the shinning star right now. When talking about Alberta, Calgary may be the first destination which springs to mind. While it has emerged as one of the world’s major powerhouses and most attractive cities in the last couple of years for many reasons, savvy investors are now looking to Edmonton for the best commercial real estate investment opportunities.

This leaves a wide choice of commercial real estate options. Should you invest in industrial warehouses, office, apartment buildings, or shopping centres? Of course the oil sands remain the backbone of the economy here, but unless you really know the ins and outs of industrial real estate, this may not be the best choice for most. The office market remains strong, with many Canadian organizations planning expansion and foreign companies establishing a presence here. However, it is retail that really leads the pack. Shopping centers and plazas make a great investment choice for those who are newer to investing in commercial real estate. It offers diversity and built protection against minor fluctuations in the market, and is pegged to continue to grow over the coming years.

There are a number of ways to invest in retail properties. You can go it alone, putting everything into a single property, or for the more cautious investor who want to get a better feel for it, there are great partnership opportunities available. This option will allow you to spread your investments further, and maximize your returns, with the added bonus of having expert management and advice provided.

Want to learn more about how you can profit from commercial real estate in Canada, or get more information on some of the great opportunities that are available? Contact Howard today by phone at 866-986-8673 or email him right now at howardm@redevgroup.ca.

Thank you for reading.

Richard Crenian
www.redevgroup.com

How the Housing Market and the Retail Commercial Real Estate Market Are Connected

2012-01-05T09:34:00.001-08:00

The Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation recently released a new report detailing the specifics of the Edmonton housing market. Overall, the report is favorable. However, the real upside to the report has to do with the retail commercial real estate market. Generally, the success of retail commercial real estate will depend on the health of the residential housing market. If people have a secure place to call home, they are much more inclined to shop at their local retail shopping centers. In contrast, when the housing market is in disarray, people tend to go out less and consequently spend less money.

It is estimated that the number of housing starts in the Edmonton area will increase in 2012. This is primarily fueled by the increase in the local GDP and the decrease in unemployment levels. As people begin to acquire these new homes, there will be a demand for consumer goods in order to furnish and decorate them. This means that retailers should see an increase in business. When retailers see a demand of goods and services, they are much more likely to expand and open new locations, which will directly benefit the retail commercial real estate investor.

Another interesting discovery is that the average home price is continuing to rise in Edmonton, as is the number of multi-family development projects. These are all signs that point to growth not only in the housing sector, but also in the retail sector. In addition to these facts, it has also been reported that Edmonton home sales in 2011 were greater than 2010, and it is being estimated that this trend will continue in 2012.

The Bank of Canada estimates that real estate wealth accounts for approximately 37 percent of the total household assets in Canada, which equates to roughly $2.2 trillion Canadian Dollars (CAD). Because of this, changes in the residential housing market can have a huge impact on the well-being of the surrounding economy. In the case of the Edmonton housing market, the effects should be positive, and retailers should be able to capitalize on the growth of the local economy.

Retail commercial real estate investors will also benefit from this growth as retailers look to expand and open new locations in Alberta, and specifically Edmonton. If you are interesting in learning how you can benefit from this economic growth in 2012, call Howard Manley today at 866-986-8673 or you can email him at: howardm@redevgroup.ca.

Thank you for reading.

Richard Crenian
www.redevgroup.ca

Canada Is Standing Strong Despite the Global Markets

2012-01-04T08:20:00.000-08:00

Everywhere you turn, there are “doom and gloom” reports about the financial markets in the USA and Europe. Fiscal mismanagement has been the topic of discussion recently, and spectators are quick to point to the high unemployment rates and sluggish economies of the western world. Although this is true in many cases, this is not the case in Canada, and more specifically, Alberta.

A recent report by the Conference Board of Canada, an organization that specializes in researching and analyzing the economic trends within the nation, stated that the gross domestic product (GDP) has risen 3.1% in 2011. It is also estimated to increase by 3.6% and 4.5% in 2012 and 2013, respectively. Although this growth is being fueled primarily by the potash and energy industries, the commercial real estate market in Alberta is sure to benefit from this growth. As an economy grows, the citizens within that economy generally have more disposable income to spend on retail and consumer goods. The merchants who are responsible for selling these goods will inevitably need to acquire commercial space in order to conduct business. Therefore, an increase in the GDP is sure to spark growth in the development and leasing of commercial real estate.

The Conference Board also reported that the unemployment rate will continue to decrease, from 4.9 percent to 4.4 percent in 2012. As the economic climate improves and the unemployment rate continues to decline, consumer confidence is sure to increase, which will lead to an increase in spending and growth. These are positive signs for the commercial real estate market in Alberta, but you would never know it by listening to all of the economic reports coming from the so-called "experts".

Regardless of the negative reports, the time to invest in commercial real estate is NOW! If you haven’t already done so, you should register for our free online seminar entitled "Beat Investor Uncertainty with Canadian Real Estate". This seminar will show you how you can generate cash flow and equity appreciation by investing in retail commercial real estate immediately. Best of all, you can attend from the comforts of your own home or office.

If you are interested in learning more about the commercial real estate opportunities available in Alberta, contact Howard Manly today at 866-986-8673 or email him at howardm@redevgroup.ca. For the savvy investor, there are an abundance of opportunities in Canadian commercial real estate - make sure they do not pass you by.

Thank you for reading.

Richard Crenian
www.redevgroup.com

What Makes Commercial Real Estate Investing So Attractive?

2011-12-21T08:30:00.000-08:00

The great returns offered by commercial real estate investment are certainly attractive for everyone. However, while commercial property investing may offer a more appealing option than your current savings and investment vehicles, is it really a good choice for you?

There are plenty of ways to make money and prepare for retirement today. Most probably aren’t as sound as commercial real estate investment, but before putting your money into anything, you should definitely make sure that it aligns with your personal goals. Are you looking to replace lost income, add to your income without having to take on another job, or gamble on a new business idea? Would you like to develop passive income streams, which will allow you to retire earlier and more comfortably? Are you looking to build your nest egg or rebuild your nest egg from losses in other investments? The great news is that investing in commercial real estate can provide both passive income and capital growth simultaneously. Better yet, it can do this without becoming a full time job, or requiring your daily management. With the right vehicle, you can simply plug and play while you get on with what is most important to you. However, the benefits of investing in commercial real estate don’t end there. Commercial real estate also offers incredible security and tax benefits which compound your returns.

Regardless of your other types of investments and their returns, commercial real estate is a great way to diversify your portfolio. You shouldn’t only be diversifying among stocks, bonds, or precious metals to be successful. Commercial real estate can help you truly balance your portfolio, which will give you the security and confidence you need.

By choosing the types of commercial property you invest in wisely, you can further diversify your holdings. By opting to get into multiple tenant properties like shopping plazas, you are automatically spreading your investments between multiple industries and trends so that you don’t have to worry about your returns evaporating overnight.

While you can certainly find investing in multifamily, industrial, and office buildings profitable, shopping centers are a great option for those getting into commercial real estate now. Low vacancy rates, booming sales, and a bright outlook promises investors great protection, strong returns, and maximum equity growth/income increases over the next 5-10 years.

If you have been on the fence about actually putting money into commercial real estate, you need to know that you don’t have to take out million dollar mortgages, or sink half a million of your own cash in just to try it out. Partnerships make it easy to test the waters, with limited exposure and expert guidance so that you can see how it really works and enjoy the returns without the risk of going at it alone.

Are you ready to learn more about how to profit from commercial real estate in Canada, or get more details on some of the great opportunities that are currently available? Then contact Howard today by phone at 866-986-8673 or via email right now at howardm@redevgroup.ca.

Thank you for reading.

Richard Crenian
www.redevgroup.com

A Commercial Real Estate Investor's Guide to Edmonton

2011-12-20T13:04:00.000-08:00

While Alberta has been attracting plenty of attention from all types of investors over the last year, why are commercial real estate investors so keen on Edmonton recently?

1. Price/ Value Comparison
Despite Edmonton being the capital of the province, Calgary has certainly hogged its share of the headlines over the last 18 months. This has attracted a lion’s share of domestic and international investment capital towards Calgary. However, this has actually proven to be of great benefit to forward thinking commercial real estate investors in Edmonton. As sprawling western Canadian cities such as Vancouver and Calgary may have seen property prices rise, Edmonton has remained more affordable, enabling smart investors to lock into growing returns with much less competition.

2. Jobs and Population Growth
The price and competition difference has also benefited Edmonton in the form of sustainable growth in population. Many new individuals and families are favoring the city for its more affordable housing and abundance of jobs. In fact, Edmonton not only boasts one of the lowest unemployment rates in Canada, but in the world. This will continue to ensure growth, and subsequently, commercial real estate returns will continue to rise.

3. Commercial Real Estate Sectors in Edmonton
While many destinations in the world have seen a surge in one real estate sector which has risen and burst due to the lack of a solid foundation, Edmonton is quite different. Edmonton sits on a solid footing with great things happening in all sectors, from residential real estate to industrial, multifamily, office and retail. The stability of the financial system and the focus of the local government on balanced growth and investment offers additional protection and confidence for investors.

4. Vacancy Rates & Demand
Vacancy rates for industrial, office and retail real estate in Edmonton are also at incredible lows. With vacancy rates predicted to drop even further (close to zero in the New Year), current inventory is being absorbed, increasing returns are likely to increase demand and draw interest away from the likes of Calgary, where commercial real estate investors will be fighting over shrinking profit margins. In a market as strong as this, the risks are about as close to zero as you could hope for, and opportunities for increasing rents will abound as tenants battle each other for space. Of course, this promises to only increase both cash flow and equity growth for commercial real estate owners, with any newly constructed inventory adding more fuel to prices.

5. Rising Retail Figures
With the population growing, plenty of jobs and disposable income, retail figures just keep growing in Edmonton, which boasts some of the highest sales per square foot in the Americas. For those who have been unsure about investing in commercial real estate, this makes shopping plazas stand out as a great choice.

Want to learn more about how you can profit from commercial real estate in Edmonton, or get more information on some of the great opportunities that are available? Contact Howard today by phone at 866-986-8673 or email him right now at howardm@redevgroup.ca.

Thank you for reading.

Richard Crenian
www.redevgroup.com

Does Canadian Investment Abroad Lower Returns For Commercial Real Estate Investors At Home?

2011-12-15T10:45:00.000-08:00

South of the border, recent headlines have been filled with stories of the huge surge in Canadians scooping up U.S. foreclosure properties. It is unclear whether this is the media grasping at straws to show some type of positivity in the housing market, or done out of disbelief that anyone is buying these properties. However, the real question to ask is how will this effect commercial real estate here at home in Canada?

While some may be concerned that investment in residential real estate in the U.S. is taking money out of the Canadian market, the truth is that it will likely mean great things for commercial real estate returns in cities such as Calgary and Edmonton, but why?

Canadians buying real estate in the United States are primarily doing it for investment purposes. Even those who want to use these homes for vacations will ultimately be leasing them for the rest of the year. This means that there will be positive cash flow coming back into the pockets of these investors, who will then spend it here at home throughout the rest of the year. This disposable income, combined with the attachment these individuals are developing for U.S. brands which are now available here at home, equates to an increase consumer spending. This spending will only continue to fuel retail growth, which will mean higher demand for retail space and better returns for those investing in commercial real estate in Canada.

There will unfortunately be a large number of Canadians who invest in foreclosure properties in parts of the U.S. which are being hyped by marketers, such as Phoenix, Arizona and parts of Atlanta, Georgia. They simply won’t live up to the promises. You have to respect the great marketing, but no matter how you paint them, some of these markets could likely be crippled for quite some time, until the economy is stabilized. This bad experience will have Canadians pulling out and telling those they know first-hand to keep their money here at home. Some will invest this cash in residential real estate, some will start new businesses, and much of it will go on luxury goods and increased spending on everyday items.

At the same time those unhappy with the economic conditions and lack of jobs in their own countries will increasingly seek to migrate to Canada, in search of jobs and to start businesses where people are spending money.

All of these signs point to continued security and increased returns for commercial real estate investors in Canada, specifically those focusing on the western provinces and forward thinking investors heading to destinations like Edmonton. Where you put your money is entirely up to you, but including shopping plazas in Alberta in your portfolio as we move into 2012 could be a great move.

Want to learn more about how you can profit from commercial real estate in Canada, or get more information on some of the great opportunities that are available? Contact Howard today by phone at 866-986-8673 or email him right now at howardm@redevgroup.ca.

Thank you for reading.

Richard Crenian
www.redevgroup.com

Commercial Real Estate Returns Are Rising as Global Economic Uncertainty Prevails

2011-12-13T11:30:00.000-08:00

Just when things seem like they might be getting better, another country makes the headlines for its economic troubles. In this era of economic uncertainty, commercial real estate investors in Canada are far from feeling the pinch, and most are anticipating even better returns as the New Year approaches.

Canada continues to grow, and its stable financial system is praised, while countries such as Greece and Italy are going bankrupt, Germany and France are being threatened with a downgrade, and Australia and the United States are teetering on the brink of trouble. Clearly, Canada is becoming a more desirable country in the world economy.

Alberta has already been a major beneficiary of the downfall of other economies. With a great banking system, governments which support sustainable growth and investment, plenty of jobs, and lots of disposable income, its major cities have been attracting considerable foreign investment and foreign businesses.

This may not be news to some, and there is a fear that the continued economic uncertainty in Europe and the United States may slow this influx of capital and business into Canada. However, what most do not realize is that any temporary slowdown in the number of commercial real estate transactions in cities like Edmonton, Calgary or Vancouver, whether purely seasonal, or due to domestic builders and foreign companies holding off on making decisions, will only actually increase returns.

Due to an increasing shortage of commercial real estate inventory in Alberta, values will continue to increase, which will also drive up incomes and ultimately returns. We are already seeing incredibly low vacancy rates in Western Canada, and according to a report in Canadian Business, Alberta’s prominent cities will likely be seeing office vacancies at just over 1% by next year. With Alberta’s retail and industrial sectors booming, we can assume vacancy rates in these sectors won’t be much different either, especially with the large number of companies who have announced expansion plans in the coming months.

Low vacancy rates or high occupancy rates will mean better cash flow, income levels and returns for commercial real estate investors. In turn, this will increase values and equity, which will dramatically increase over all returns and fuel further investment.

As economic conditions ease abroad and solutions are found, a renewed surge in investment in Canada by foreign investors in the second half of 2012 is predicted to only see demand and returns soar to new highs. Clearly, evaluating and locking into current opportunities in Alberta’s commercial real estate market now should be a top priority on the list of anyone who is seeking better returns on their savings and investments, those who are looking to convert to truly passive income investments, or those need to make up for lost time in growing their nest eggs.

To learn more about how you can profit from commercial real estate in Alberta, Canada or to receive more information on some of the great opportunities that are available, contact Howard Manley today by phone at 866-986-8673 or email him right now at howardm@redevgroup.ca.

Thank you for reading.

Richard Crenian
www.redevgroup.com

Edmonton: A Preferred Choice for Commercial Real Estate Investors

2011-11-25T11:37:00.000-08:00

Barely a week has gone by this year without news of the Calgary real estate market hitting the headlines. However, savvy commercial real estate investors are quietly seeking out bigger returns in Alberta’s capital, Edmonton.

It is true that Calgary has certainly earned a formidable reputation as an economic powerhouse and rapidly growing world city, but it is not the only shining star for commercial real estate investors in Alberta. Calgary boasts more headquarters of international corporations, more retail sales, and a position as one of the top choices for foreign brands moving into Canada. Yet, while these factors certainly make it attractive for other investors to jump into, it also means that property prices are higher and demand and competition for properties is heightened, all of which can make it expensive for commercial real estate investors to get in. It can also dampen returns.

More sophisticated commercial real estate investors are realizing that Edmonton offers an array of advantages. While Edmonton similarly boasts a robust local economy, low vacancy rates on commercial properties, low unemployment, and great growth, its lower key profile actually presents larger spreads and higher income returns in many cases.

As the provincial capital, the importance of Edmonton is not going to go away as it can with other fad cities, which the masses fall in and out of love with on a whim. It is a mature city with a solid backbone, not just in energy but also in all commercial real estate sectors with a local government, which is committed to sustainable growth.

Edmonton has limited space, with current planned developments to be filled in the next 15 years, but the city is committed to growing and is actively in attracting families to its downtown area, which will increase jobs and attract the most talented workers. All of this not only means a continued healthy and strong economy which businesses can bank on, but also continually growing returns for commercial real estate investors.

With more affordable housing and often better priced commercial real estate investment properties, investors are finding well above market return and are locking into great cash flow levels and growing equity positions. These investments are only expected to improve over the coming years.

It is definitely worth taking a look at what commercial retail properties are on the market, and what types of returns and tax benefits are available in Edmonton. Many may be surprised at just how great the opportunities are that lay among investing in shopping centers and strip malls, which have a good mix of tenants and strong records of income and returns.

To learn more about how you can profit from investing in commercial real estate in Edmonton, Canada or get more information on some of the great opportunities that are currently available, contact Howard Manley today by phone on 866-986-8673 or by email right now at howardm@redevgroup.ca.

Thank you for reading.

Richard Crenian
www.redevgroup.com

What is the Best Time to Find Commercial Real Estate Deals? The Holiday Season

2011-11-23T07:00:00.001-08:00

For those who have been waiting for just the right time to jump into a new commercial real estate investment, the next few weeks may be just that time.

Besides the global and macroeconomic factors that are making commercial real estate in Canada so attractive right now, the upcoming Holiday Season may present even more appealing deals for investors looking to lock into great income producing investments.

Why now? While commercial real estate in Canada has been hot for most of the year, the cooler weather often has an equally cooling effect on commercial property sales, even though it is just temporary. When the snow hits hard, many snow birds get moving south to enjoy the warmer weather and sunny skies. Add to this the preoccupation with entertaining, Christmas shopping, and difficulty seeing properties due to weather, and this means far fewer buyers and investors looking and making offers on properties than the rest of the year. Similarly, many real estate agents also take time off, even if it just means staying out of the office and taking forever to return phone calls.

The end result is that sellers become increasingly nervous about the prospects of selling their buildings quickly, and for the prices they were asking. All of a sudden, even those who were in no real rush to sell and whose tenants are doing OK from the seasonal increase in retail spending, find themselves with a whole new level of motivation to make deals.

Even though the Canadian commercial real estate market is still hot right now, discounts of tens or even a couple hundred thousand dollars can make a huge difference in returns for investors both in the short term in the form of income, and in the medium or long term when cashing out.

Investors worried about upcoming taxes being due or who haven’t organized themselves and their assets in the best way to limit tax liabilities will find commercial real estate offers the ideal solution for added protection, and lowering liability before the end of the year cut off.

Where should you look? Vancouver and Calgary have obviously hogged many headlines this year when it comes to improvements in the commercial real estate market, rising retail figures, jobs, and above average returns for investors. However, more forward thinking investors are now increasingly looking to cities like Edmonton for deeper spreads and the promise of bigger profits and returns over the next few years, where the largest growth is expected.

The bottom line is that no matter how much you have to invest right now it is definitely worth taking a look around at some of the commercial real estate deals being offered and analyzing the benefits of acting now versus in the new year.

Want to learn more about how you can profit from commercial real estate in Canada or get more information on some of the great opportunities that are available? Contact Howard today by phone at 866-986-8673 or email him right now at howardm@redevgroup.ca.

Thank you for reading.

Richard Crenian
www.redevgroup.ca

Which City Ranks Third In Prosperity? Calgary.

2011-11-11T09:16:00.000-08:00

Calgary has certainly being creating a lot of buzz as an emerging world city to watch. Who would have thought that it would come out ranked as one of the most prosperous cities in the world, even ahead of Toronto, just a few years ago?

In fact, much to Toronto’s dismay, the recently released Toronto Board of Trade’s 2011 Scorecard on Prosperity ranked Calgary number 3 in the world. This puts it just behind San Francisco and Paris, and well above Toronto, which came in at just 8th place, of the world’s 24 most prosperous urban centers.

It doesn’t matter which economist or research firm you talk to, everyone is praising Calgary. This includes the Urban Land Institute and Pricewaterhouse Coopers survey, Emerging Trends in Real Estate 2012, which recognizes the city’s energy backbone could well be poised to boom even further next year, making Calgary even more important to world economics and a formidable financial powerhouse.

With energy companies already expanding, a highly talented worker pool, great education system, plenty of jobs, and a continued influx of new residents and businesses, Calgary certainly stands out as a top performer for commercial real estate investing.

Both office space and retail space is being grabbed up at an incredible rate, as companies plan further expansion. Vacancy rates are at incredible lows, as are unemployment numbers and commercial real estate investors are enjoying buoyant cash flow levels with equity growth rising as well.

While the global economy may still be finding its footing, it is clear that commercial real estate in Calgary is one of the best options, and certainly a top choice for those seeking security and great returns. Even in comparison to Paris and San Francisco, when it comes to real estate investments, Calgary would clearly be the top pick for many reasons.

So where to invest? While all commercial real estate sectors are performing well in the area, clearly office and retail properties are the top picks for most. Certainly retail figures and competition for retail space is producing incredible income and equity growth for those invested with only better returns on the horizon.

The competition for the best shopping centres and plazas may be heating up due to investors rushing to lock in the best deals. However, there are great investments to be had if you have a great source with expert knowledge of the local area. Don’t immediately limit your options by just what you can afford to buy in cash or with mortgage financing. Look at partnership options, which can help leverage your capital and diversify your investments, while being able to take advantage of the expertise and market knowledge of others.

Want to learn more about how you can profit from commercial real estate in Canada or get more information on some of the great opportunities that are available? Contact Howard today by phone at 866-986-8673 or email him right now at howardm@redevgroup.ca.

Thank you for reading.

Richard Crenian
www.redevgroup.com

Why Demand For Commercial Real Estate Will Not Decrease In Today's New Economy

2011-11-08T10:55:00.000-08:00

Despite a dramatic swing towards an increasingly virtual economy, there are actually a variety of reasons why Canadian commercial real estate will remain in high demand.

It is true that outsourcing is a trend that continues to attract a lot of attention, new technology has made doing business across borders using remote workers easier, new cloud base software continues to be developed, and Internet shopping keeps on growing. However, this does not mean that there won’t be a need for office buildings and retail shopping centers.

It is important to recognize that while outsourcing is a hot trend for now, especially amongst start ups, there will no doubt be a good number of businesses who realize that it just is not viable for the level of quality that they need to maintain to remain competitive. On the other hand, those new companies who do become incredibly successful will likely grow into needing brick and mortar space. Both scenarios will increase the demand for commercial real estate in Canada.

From a consumer’s point of view, while online shopping may be convenient, it just is not as satisfying and enjoyable as walking through a physical store and walking out with bags of new items. Plus, retailers have a lot to gain from live walk in traffic in terms of up-selling.

Big businesses in all fields are also increasingly buying up commercial real estate, for their own use to maintain affordable overhead, tax benefits, bragging rights, the free press, as well as a form of investment for themselves. We have seen plans for the Apple “Mothership” campus and Google’s record $1.9 billion purchases, in the US but Canada is also equally benefiting from this as Canadian energy companies expand and more international headquarters are established within the country.

Beyond the demand for commercial real estate in Canada by consumers and businesses, investors will continue to pursue commercial properties to keep their money working for them, to realize high returns with great security, and to shelter capital/enjoy tax benefits.

The World Wide Web may seem to present boundless opportunities for entrepreneurs, businesses and investors, however it is the limited amount of land and property that we have which will continue to boost its value. There is only so much land, and certainly only so much prime property to be had, even in a country as expansive as Canada.

Commercial real estate in Canada’s western provinces is only expected to grow in value. If we should see minor fluctuations in commercial property values in the next couple of decades, the long term trend is always up. You also have regular income and rents coming in even if equity isn’t growing as fast as you would like.

Want to learn more about how you can profit from commercial real estate in Canada or get more information on some of the great opportunities that are available? Contact Howard today by phone at 866-986-8673 or email him right now at howardm@redevgroup.ca.

Thank you for reading.

Richard Crenian
www.redevgroup.com

Factors Which Attrave Investors to Commercial Real Estate in Alberta

2011-11-04T13:23:00.000-07:00

Calgary, Alberta continues to attract an incredible amount of attention from investors. So what is all the fuss about? Why invest in commercial real estate right now, and why Calgary?

The Market Is Strong & Growing
Canada boasts one of the strongest banking systems at the moment. The residential housing market in Calgary has continued to improve for the last 3 months straight providing further confidence. All commercial real estate sectors have continued to boom as well. The office sector has seen an unprecedented surge, absorbing 2.2 million square feet of space this year, three times the average over the last 15 years. When it comes to retail sales and sales per square foot, Calgary puts its competitors to shame, which is attracting more retailers and foreign brands to open up shop here.

Low Unemployment
The unemployment rate in Calgary just seems to keep dropping. Now at 5.5%, it is among the lowest on the planet. Coupled with the recent surge in office leasing and announcements of new retail store openings, this number is likely to continue dropping over the next 24 months. Low unemployment suggests crime will stay low, and that locals will continue to have plenty of surplus cash to spend at local stores.

Emergence As A New World City
Moving up the ranks as one of the hottest centers of commerce and a World City to be reckoned with, Calgary is attracting tourism, new companies, and investment from all around the globe. As its fame grows, more businesses set up headquarters here and more individuals put it on their travel plans. This will result in more money flowing in and returns for investors will only keep growing.

Savvy Investors Opting For Commercial Real Estate
More and more savvy investors are choosing to add commercial real estate to their portfolios. Why? It can provide both income and capital growth in a passive investment which is currently at the beginning of a great period of growth. It provides security and diversity, not to mention handsome returns!

The Returns Are Great
Without trying to sound too good to be true, commercial real estate investments in Alberta have been producing well above average returns for investors. Advanced partnership investment vehicles are also providing amazing tax benefits, which compounded with passive cash flow and equity appreciation, can result in high double and triple digit returns. Trying to find consistent returns like this anywhere else, with anywhere near the security that commercial real estate provides, is virtually impossible. This makes investments in shopping plazas in Calgary a hot item right now, and one that can be a great choice for investors at every stage of their retirement planning.

Ready to learn more about how you can profit from commercial real estate in Calgary, Canada or to take a look at some of the great opportunities and properties that are available right now? Then contact Howard Manley today either by phone on 866-986-8673 or via email right now at howardm@redevgroup.ca.

Thank you for reading.

Richard Crenian
www.redevgroup.com

Alberta Commercial Real Estate Investors Poised To Cash In

2011-11-03T10:02:00.000-07:00

After a superb year for retail in Calgary for 2010, experts predict great things for the rest of 2011 and throughout 2012.

Calgary has and is predicted to outperform most of the rest of Canada when it comes to the retail sector. In fact, for both last year and the next 18 months, the Calgary region is expected to stay ahead by almost a full percentage point in growth. 2010 saw retail sales grow an incredible 6.3%. Even despite some recent setbacks, analysts predict 2011 to end up at 5.6%, with 2012 on track to see 5.9% growth. This will put Calgary retail spending at more than $25 billion annually by next year.

The real strength is expected amongst the food, drug, store merchandise, and automotive sectors, all of which are staples in Calgary’s strip malls and shopping centers. While there may not be very many vacancies in the retail or office sectors today, any currently vacant units, or those with leases due to expire, ought to be fetching top dollar. Even commercial real estate investors with 100% occupied properties will see rising returns if leases have rents, which are tied to performance. There still remains plenty of speculation about the US economy, but it is clear that whether it dramatically improves in the next year or not Calgary will remain strong.

For those who have been sitting on the fence, waiting for the perfect time to invest in commercial real estate in Canada, holding out any longer is unlikely to yield better returns. Large institutional investors continue to wade into the retail sector, and savvy private investors have been capitalizing on attractive partnership opportunities offering great tax benefits and strong returns.

There may not be a huge choice of inventory left on the market right now. However, there are certainly a number of great retail properties to choose from if you know where to look. There are a number of ways to invest in shopping centers, so even if you don’t have an extra couple million dollars lying around you shouldn’t give up trying to get the best returns. In fact, some of the best commercial real estate investment vehicles can be had for as little as $10,000.00.

With Calgary’s popularity continuing to surge, it is really hard to go wrong. While high quality properties, in good condition and prime spots are great choices, even those that could use a little sprucing up or a shakeup in tenants are poised to produce healthy double or triple digit returns for those with access to an experienced management team. So even if you have just been toying with the idea of investing in commercial real estate in Canada, it is certainly worth taking a look at some of the properties currently on the market.

Want to learn more about how you can profit from commercial real estate in Canada or get more information on some of the great opportunities that are available? Contact Howard today by phone at 866-986-8673 or email him right now at howardm@redevgroup.ca

Thank you for reading.

Richard Crenian
www.redevgroup.com

7 Things to Analyze When Buying Commercial Real Estate

2011-10-25T09:35:00.000-07:00

1. Property Condition
Of course the best bargains on commercial real estate are often to be had on those which could use a little updating of cosmetic improvements. This often makes it easy to increase equity and returns with a small investment. However, if a property has obviously been poorly maintained by the current owner and if the small things haven’t been taken care of, it could be a sign that there are bigger problems lurking under the surface.

2. Tenant Deposits
Don’t forget to pay attention to tenant deposits in addition to actual rent amounts. Unusually, small deposits may suggest that big discounts had to be offered in order to attract tenants to the property or perhaps you just aren’t being told the whole story. These should also be verified with the tenants prior to purchasing the property to make sure that you aren’t left paying out money you didn’t receive.

3. Personal Guarantees
Of course, whenever possible you should avoid having to personally guarantee anything when it comes to commercial real estate investments. However, if your commercial property has a number of tenants who aren’t big brand names, it is smart to check in order to see if they have personally guaranteed their leases. This means that they will have a lot more motivation to make their businesses work and pay their rent even if things ever slow down.

4. Parking Space
Parking is something all too often overlooked by those new to commercial real estate investing. Parking is key for being able to bring in plenty of traffic, as well as being able to allow certain types of businesses (and attracting some of the most profitable ones).

5. Is It Busy?
Investing in commercial real estate abroad is now often done without giving it a second thought. However, if you can, it is always great to visit a property before investing in it. Looking at numbers on paper is important, but you can also get a great feel for how profitable a piece of commercial real estate is and what its potential is by visiting. Most importantly, is it busy? Is it vibrant? Are tenants happy about the amount of business they are doing?

6. Is The Area Growing?
Is the area where you are considering investing commercial real estate growing or is it fading? Buying commercial property at bargain prices when the market is down can hold great opportunities. However, buying when it is still sliding downwards may not be that smart. Look for a property that is in a growing area in terms of population, jobs, retail sales, and real estate values.

7. Is The Local Economy Sustainable?
As we have learned from the recent bubble in the US, growth alone doesn’t mean a secure, lasting investment. Is the local economy sustainable? Is the government being wise about balanced growth and industry? How strong is the banking sector? Is housing affordable?

Want to know out more about how you can find commercial real estate in Canada or get more information on some of the great opportunities that are on the market right now? Contact Howard Manley today by phone at 866-986-8673 or email now at howardm@redevgroup.ca.

Thank you for reading.

Richard Crenian
www.redevgroup.com

How to Ensure Your Commercial Real Estate Investment Is Secure

2011-10-21T11:06:00.000-07:00

Choosing A Commercial Real Estate Sector
Remember, commercial real estate is broken down into several sectors; industrial, multifamily, office, and retail. While all are doing pretty well at the moment, they all have their own cycles and it is important to invest in one of those that is moving in a positive direction. Right now, the Canadian retail sector is booming and is expected to continue to grow at a healthy rate over the next 5-10 years.

Strength Of Local Market
Making sure that you pick a commercial property in the right area will make all the difference between a sound investment which continues to produce above average returns, and one which loses value. Is the area growing? Is the growth sustainable? Are you investing in an area which is attracting both local and international investment? Is the government being wise about growth and is it promoting investment? Is there a good mix of businesses, resources, and a growing population, with plenty of employment opportunities?

Low Vacancy Rates
Look for both low vacancy rates within a commercial real estate property and in the area. Low area vacancy rates indicate a high demand for space and rising rental rates. A strong demand for commercial space also indicates a strong local economy, which normally means increased sales for tenants and the opportunity to see higher returns as an investor. When it comes to your individual investment, ideally you can find properties that are already 100% occupied, however a few vacancies can also mean the opportunity to rent out units at today’s higher rates.

Easy To Sell
Ensuring that you buy the right commercial property and that the future outlook for returns is substantial is important. First and foremost, you want to make sure that your capital is protected. However, don’t forget about access to your capital in case of emergencies. Choose properties or an investment vehicle which can easily be sold so that you can tap into your nest egg if the need arises.

Diversification
Choosing to diversify into commercial real estate is a wise move for any investor and everyone planning for a comfortable retirement. Not only does it provide great diversification from your other investments, multiple tenant commercial properties offer their own built in form of diversification. However, you can go even further by selecting to invest through partnership vehicles which allow you to spread your capital among several properties instead of just one. This offers several layers of protection for your investments, and will ensure ongoing, consistent returns and income, as well as minimizing any risks.

Interested in learning more about how you can profit from commercial real estate in Canada, safely, while realizing the best returns or would like to get more information on some of the best commercial investment properties available right now? Contact Howard Manley today by email at howardm@redevgroup.ca or call him at on 866-986-8673.

Thank you for reading.

Richard Crenian
www.redevgroup.com

Have You Looked At Investing In Canadian Commercial Real Estate?

2011-10-20T12:19:00.000-07:00

So you have money you need to invest - where should you put it? What types of investment provides you with solid capital growth, attractive income, and security?

Should you be sticking to the stock market, grabbing up residential homes, investing in a new business, or should you be taking a closer look at commercial real estate in Canada?

We all know the stock market has seen better days, but if you can pick them right and hold, then certainly there may be returns to be had and benefits of a diversified portfolio, especially if you can wait long enough. However, you certainly need to hedge against your potential losses with other types of investment too. Gold is being pushed hard by many different sources as a good choice, though it is not immune to declines and has not only seen its own fair share of dips, but is certainly at a high peak already.

Despite the state of the world economy, there is still a lot of venture capital being invested in new start ups, especially Internet start ups. While this is certainly a hot trend, it is also a very volatile investment. The Internet certainly isn’t going away any time soon and you could strike it rich by picking the next Facebook, but the odds are definitely against you. With no collateral for your investment, can you really afford the risk right now?

So what about commercial real estate, and specifically, commercial real estate in Western Canada? It continues to provide above average returns, offers real collateral and security, can throw off regular income in addition to capital growth, gives attractive tax incentives, and is forecast to continue performing well for the foreseeable future.

In a very uncertain world, Canadian commercial property may just be the haven you have been looking for. The US obviously continues to be extremely volatile, Europe clearly isn’t doing that well either and even Australian and Brazilian real estate hasn’t been delivering as expected. So when you put together the current stable and attractive returns commercial real estate cities like Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton and even Victoria and Regina offer, along with the sound Canadian banking system, population and job growth, it is pretty hard to find any other investment that can stand up as an equal.

Of course no investment is 100% without risk, though if you are looking for security and great returns and haven’t invested in commercial real estate before, it is definitely time to have a closer look and see some of the opportunities that are available. You might find that you are kicking yourself for taking so long to get around, but there are still great deals out there for those who move quickly.

To learn more about how you can profit from commercial real estate in Canada or to get more information on some of the great properties that are available contact Howard Manley today by phone at 866-986-8673 or via email at howardm@redevgroup.ca.

Thank you for reading.

Richard Crenian
www.redevgroup.com

How Does the US Economy Affect the Canadian Commercial Real Estate Market?

2011-10-19T11:52:00.000-07:00

With continued uncertainty about the state of the US economy many are asking a weak economy means for commercial real estate in Canada.

Certainly the major news stations aren’t painting a pretty picture of the economy in the United States. However, while the jobs market remains somewhat dismal on paper, real estate is coming around. There are certainly many individuals who have stopped seeking jobs to launch their own businesses, meaning that there are indicators going off, signalling a rebound, even if they are going on under the radar. It is also important to note that there is still quite a bit of capital floating around for investment, with angel investors and venture capital firms appearing quite liberal in their investments. Plus, you can be sure that all stops will be pulled out by the Obama Administration in the run up to the 2012 Presidential Election.

Though, the real question is whether a continued period of stagnation will have a negative or positive effect on Canadian commercial properties. Certainly with the amount of trade that goes on between the US and Canada, a weak US economy can mean a drop in demand for Canadian products across the border. This is a concern that has been raised by Canadian officials, especially after Obama’s comments about ‘buying American’ in his recent speech.

However, at the same, time the woes of the US economy (and Europe for that matter), whether warranted or not, makes Canada even more attractive to savvy commercial real estate investors. More individuals and businesses are looking to move into Canada, especially its western provinces. It doesn’t take a genius to see that investing where the biggest job growth and population growth is, as well as investment in developing business is, will provide the safest investments as well as the best returns. Add to this the strength of the Canadian banking and legal systems compared to any other possible locale in the world right now, and you can see why Canada is such an attractive place to invest.

For those looking for great growth prospects over the next few years and a forecast of sustainable returns for the foreseeable future, Canada really stands out from the crowd for investors of all types. How better to capitalize on this than through investing in commercial real estate in Western Canada? There are certainly opportunities in all types of commercial real estate in British Columbia, Alberta and Saskatchewan. However, those who are really familiar with the different commercial sectors and economic trends here will definitely tell you that retail properties, and shopping malls in particular, stand out as a top choice right now, regardless of what direction the US economy follows in the coming months.

Want to learn more about how to profit from commercial real estate in Canada in the current market or get more information on some of the great properties that are available? Then contact Howard today either by phone on 866-986-8673 or by email right now at howardm@redevgroup.ca.

Thank you for reading.

Richard Crenian
www.redevgroup.com

Construction in Calgary Rises

2011-10-18T11:30:00.000-07:00

Showing ever increasing strength and confidence in the Canadian commercial real estate market, the value of building permits in Calgary soared by an amazing 77% since August last year, according to Statistics Canada.

Now up to $461 million, a leap of almost 24% from July of this year alone, Calgary is desperately trying to keep up with the huge demand for commercial real estate, though Alberta as a whole isn’t doing too badly either. Total building permits in the western Canadian province of Alberta are up 6.2% month over month, and a healthy 37.5% year over year, to a value of $1.2 billion. However, it is commercial building that is really standing out, with a 50% plus increase from August last year and over 20% since July of this year.

The overall numbers for Canada nationwide may have slipped slightly, but it is clear that Alberta remains an immensely popular choice for both Canadian and foreign investors and businesses. However, the other western provinces of Saskatchewan and British Columbia aren’t doing too badly either, with cities like Regina, Victoria and Vancouver standing out as ones to watch.

This is great news for commercial real estate investors. Supply is certainly having a tough time keeping up with demand, and vacancy rates continue to remain at incredible lows. We are certainly in no danger of over building any time soon and more commercial construction will simply continue to provide more opportunities for commercial investors, as well as further fuel the growth of the province and its new position of world power.

Of course, more building also means more jobs being created which will attract even more migration both from Canada’s eastern provinces and abroad. This will keep the residential housing market strong and equity growing, which obviously fuels more confidence in the economy and retail spending. In short, it is creating a positive upward spiral that will keep commercial real estate returns high and sustainable.

The industrial, multifamily housing, and office sectors are all doing well, but it is clearly the retail sector that continues to stand out as the jewel in the crown of the commercial real estate market right now. This is something that isn’t likely to change anytime soon. If the rest of the world continues to stumble on for the next year trying to fix their economies, Canada and Alberta in particular, will only stand out as being even more attractive to everyone from workers to international corporations and commercial real estate investors. If the US and European economies begin to boom again quickly, then cities like Calgary will still be one of the biggest recipients of this new wealth. Either way it is a win-win for commercial real estate investors here.

To learn more about how you can profit from commercial real estate in Canada or get more information on some of the great opportunities that are available contact Howard today by phone at 866-986-8673 or email him now at howardm@redevgroup.ca.

Thank you for reading.

Richard Crenian
www.redevgroup.com

A Busy 12 Months Expected For Commercial Real Estate

2011-10-17T09:32:00.000-07:00

It is no secret that in the last 2 years, there has been an increased demand for commercial real estate in Canada. Investors have been rushing to pick up the best shopping center deals they could find in Alberta and British Columbia, as retail sales have soared. However, this may be nothing compared to the amount of new commercial real estate purchases expected over the next 12 months.

In a recent report, an incredible 86% of Canadian survey respondents indicated that they planned to expand their holdings over the next 6 months. On top of this, 71% of investors around the globe who were surveyed said that they were planning on increasing their commercial real estate portfolios over the next 12 months, with a further 15.9% saying that they were ‘somewhat likely’ to as well. This is a huge jump over last year, when only 60% of investors planned to expand. The number of foreign investors saying that they were now looking overseas for good commercial investments also rose, with Canada being one of the top destinations that they were interested in.

Perhaps the only thing that will hold back this flood of investors from scooping up masses of Canadian commercial real estate is the availability. With vacancy rates down and retail sales up, the best properties are being grabbed up very quickly after going on the market. With lower inventory levels, it is obvious that prices are rising fast too. While there are still plenty of opportunities for locking into great cash flow levels and soaring equity, it is only those who are prepared to move fast when they find a deal that will come out ahead.

Calgary continues to garner much of the attention from both local and overseas investors, and with good reason. However, stepping outside of the new booming world cities of Vancouver and Calgary and taking a look at places like Edmonton can often also yield great returns, in sustainable areas with a little less competition.

The real lesson here is that if you have been looking into commercial real estate investment opportunities, you definitely want to make sure that you are ready to go when the right property or deal comes along. This means having your financing set up and ensuring that you have liquid funds available to make deposits and begin the process as quickly as possible. The returns on these properties may continue to be great for many years but with the surge in investments expected this year, it is clear that most of the best properties will already be tied up for the long term before 2013 rolls around.

Want to learn more about how you can profit from commercial real estate in Canada or get more information on some of the great opportunities that are available? Contact Howard today by phone at 866-986-8673 or email him right now at howardm@redevgroup.ca.

Thank you for reading.

Richard Crenian
www.redevgroup.com

How Commercial Real Estate Differs From Residential Real Estate

2011-09-29T13:25:00.000-07:00

So you are ready to move up from residential to investing in commercial real estate in Canada. What is different about it and what do you need to know?

Valuing commercial investment properties is totally different than appraising a home to live in. Instead of just using comparable sales, the value of a commercial investment property is dependent on the income it produces.

Commercial mortgage financing is also a world apart from residential home loans. Besides the way commercial properties are valued, the entire process generally works differently. Condition and quality also play a role, but generally a commercial property is either considered Class A or not. When applying for a commercial mortgage, you will generally be required to prepare and submit an executive summary first versus a lengthy loan application. An executive summary is normally a 1 to 3 page document outlining the transaction, the strategy, and the experience of those involved. It then generally goes to a committee for decision. One thing you do need to be aware of is that required inspections often include environmental reports, and both these and commercial appraisals may take notably longer than a home appraisal. On the up side, you won’t be made to jump through endless hoops as with conventional underwriting, nor will you find non-recourse loans often available. This is part of why more sophisticated investors select commercial real estate investment.

Note that commercial leases are also notably different. Commonly you can rent out your units on triple net leases, which means the tenants are responsible for paying just about everything, leaving more cash in your pocket and less maintenance. Get familiar with commercial leases, both for analyzing how good potential deals are, and for approving them for new tenants in order to get the most you possibly can out of your investment.

While management may be simplified in some respects, when buying commercial real estate you will definitely want an experienced property manager and advisor on hand who can help guide you and maximize your returns. This is where partnership vehicles provide a great advantage when investing in commercial properties in Canada. They can allow you to leverage the capital of others, so that you can get into larger and more profitable properties, as well as the experience of others.

While the directions of commercial and residential real estate are certainly intertwined to some extent, different sectors move in different cycles. Know that right now in Canada’s western provinces the office sector is seeing very low vacancy rates and the retail sector is booming, with a great outlook for the future. Between more consistent returns and a much simpler, passive investment income, once you get started investing in commercial real estate you will wonder why you ever bothered with residential.

Want to learn more about how to invest in commercial real estate in Canada or get more information on some of the great opportunities currently available? Contact Howard today either by phone at 866-986-8673 or email him now at howardm@redevgroup.ca.

Thank you for reading.

Richard Crenian
www.redevgroup.com

The Impact Of Foreign Investors On Commercial Real Estate

2011-09-28T09:24:00.000-07:00

The last year has seen the news headlines full of stories about US retailers invading Canadian cities like Vancouver, Calgary, Victoria and Edmonton. We have seen Target, Lowe’s, the UFC, Victoria Secret and Apple cross the border, just to name a few. However, they aren’t just coming to rent and offer us more entertainment, gadgets and goods. There is also a great deal of foreign investment coming in that is going to scoop up a lot of prime commercial real estate.

We are seeing a huge surge in direct foreign investment coming in from Europe, the US, Russia, the UK, Middle East, and of course, China. Of course a big influx of capital is certainly a good thing. New international businesses setting up headquarters here is great for the country and will only help further cement Vancouver and Calgary as new world cities and economic power houses. More jobs and higher incomes means more money spent at Canadian retailers, which will further strengthen the economy and enhance the quality of life. However, it certainly makes it more competitive for Canadians who want to invest in commercial real estate and be able to cash in on this growth themselves.

The industrial sector is bouncing back and there is a lot of new building going on in the multifamily sector, but it is really office and retail that stand out as the best investment choices right now. There is no question that the need for office space will continue to grow and vacancies have continued to decline, though it is retail is growing the fastest and will ultimately have the most to gain from more wealth and disposable income.

Commercial real estate prices are still attractive right now, and while retail sales and demand for space is growing, there is still room to lock into some great bargains. Shopping centers and plazas have already been producing handsome returns for investors, which are only expected to increase. Investors can also expect healthy equity growth over the next 5 to 10 years.

If you have been contemplating getting into commercial real estate investing or want to expand your portfolio, you certainly could not ask for a better time. Whether you have $10,000 or $10 million to invest you will find it hard to go wrong in the current market. Do your research and choose a good real estate company to work with, who will help guide you and do your due diligence. Be ready to move quickly when you find good deals, as you are unlikely to see such great opportunities again for a few decades from now, if ever again in your lifetime.

If you want to learn more about how you can profit from commercial real estate in Canada and get more information on some of the great opportunities that are available on the market right now, contact Howard Manley today by phone at 866-986-8673 or email him now at howardm@redevgroup.ca.

Thank you for reading.

Richard Crenian
www.redevgroup.com

Planning For Retirement? Have You Looked At Commercial Real Estate Investing?

2011-09-27T08:52:00.000-07:00

Regardless of your age or marital status, sooner or later you will need to start planning for retirement. The earlier you begin planning, the faster you can afford to retire. It is certainly nice to have the choice, even if you decide to keep working or building businesses in one way or another. This means knowing where to invest and how. If you haven’t looked closely at the advantages of commercial real estate investment, it may be just what you need to ensure you reach your financial goals.

We have all learned powerful lessons from the past few years, whether you lost a lot of savings yourself or you just witnessed it happening to others. We know that fast money strategies can be dangerous and that speculation is bad. It is much wiser to find an investment that is already producing returns, and which promises projected growth for at least the next 5-10 years, and that traditionally will keep on going up in value on average even if there are fluctuations along the way as is inevitable with any investment. This is what makes commercial real estate investment in western Canada particularly attractive, whether you plan to retire in 2 years, 5 years, or 25 years. We are at a point where you can get into some great deals on retail properties that are anticipated to only grow in value as the area booms over the next decade.

Another reason that commercial real estate is an essential part of your retirement plan is that unlike most other investments, it simultaneously provides income and capital growth. No matter where you are with your retirement savings you need both. Income is essential to replace what you will lose when you cut back or stop working, which hopefully you can afford to do long before the traditional retirement age. However, unless you already have all the wealth you need and desire you will also want to keep growing your nest egg so that it can produce more income for you, it can be accessed for big ticket items and emergencies, and will give you something to pass on, even if you don’t have anyone you want to leave anything to yet.

Additionally, regardless if you have ever done any retirement planning research or not, you know that diversification is essential for protecting your savings and ensuring consistent income and returns. This is where investing in retail properties truly stands out. Investing in commercial real estate in the form of shopping plazas provides built in diversity from having multiple tenants in different industries so that your income is always balanced. Going even further, you will find there are many ways to invest in commercial real estate today. By taking advantage of different partnership structures you can invest smaller amounts into multiple properties, which will diversify your assets even further, while giving you a great cushion against anything the economy can throw at you.

Want to learn more about how you can profit from commercial real estate in Canada or get more information on some of the great opportunities that are available? Contact Howard today by phone at 866-986-8673 or email him right now at howardm@redevgroup.ca.

Thank you for reading.

Richard Crenian
www.redevgroup.com

How to Evaluate a Shopping Center

2011-09-26T14:07:00.000-07:00

If you have been looking at commercial real estate investment opportunities in Canada, you have no doubt realized that the retail sector, and in particular shopping plazas, is really standing out as an excellent choice. However, what should you be looking for in an individual shopping center in order to evaluate it as a good investment?

Of course, you will want to start your commercial property search by narrowing down to areas which are performing well right now and are forecasted to see continued growth in retail sales, jobs and populations. Right now those interested in investing in shopping centers in Canada should be looking towards the western provinces and cities like Calgary, Vancouver, Regina, Victoria, Edmonton and Saskatchewan.

Take a look at some of the commercial properties available in these areas and make a shortlist of the best shopping centers. Then, analyze the existing cash flow. Potential is great, though speculative buying perhaps isn’t a wise financial move today. Buy a shopping center that has a proven track record and verifiable income. Even if you don’t care, if you plan on taking out a commercial mortgage, your lender will certainly want to see rent rolls, verifications from tenants and perhaps tax returns as well.

Next, look at the current tenants in your proposed shopping center. Do you have a good mix of tenants? Big brands names may make you feel warm and fuzzy, but they don’t always mean more income. In fact, they often command preferred treatment. One big name anchor tenant is good, but having a good mix is more important. This will keep your returns consistent and flowing in.

If possible, visit the property. People invest in commercial properties half way around the world without seeing it all day long, but you will get a much better feeling for how it will perform or how you can make the most of your investment if you visit it in person. Talk to locals - do people enjoy shopping there? What would they like to see different? Talk to tenants (without disclosing your intentions of course) and hear their thoughts on the property. Are their major issues lurking under the surface, are they planning on leaving or are sales on their way up?

Shop there yourself. What is the current quality of services and customer service like? Is it efficient and friendly and likely to help the property grow? Or is it terrible and with a few tenant changes could you rocket your revenues even further?

Do not necessarily be too concerned with cosmetics. Of course you may not want to take on a major repair job, but you aren’t going to live there. If the numbers work and the money is coming in, then it works. In fact, if there is room for a few minor cosmetic changes, whether it is signage or parking, this could be a great sign that there is a lot more potential profit to be made.

To find out more about selecting commercial real estate investing in Canada or to get details of some of the great opportunities that are available, contact Howard Manley today by phone at 866-986-8673 or email him right now at howardm@redevgroup.ca.

Thank you for reading.

Richard Crenian
www.redevgroup.com

Commerical Real Estate Management Firm - A Wise Choice For A Commercial Real Estate Investor

2011-09-23T13:06:00.001-07:00

You probably wouldn’t consider investing in commercial real estate without hiring a property manager to take care of your property and handle the day to day operations but who you hire can make a huge difference in terms of your returns.

You could try your hand at managing your commercial investments alone, though this probably contradicts the reason you decided to invest in commercial property. Yes, the returns can be good, but with an expert on your side they can be a lot better. Plus, the whole idea is really to put your money to work for you, not to keep on working and simply taking on another job. Drive to any town you like and if you see closed businesses and ask locals what happened, 9 times out of 10 they will say it was poor management. Sadly, this is often because owners tried to do it all themselves.

When it comes to marketing and negotiating with tenants, an experienced property manager can save you a lot of time and money. They are already marketing for tenants, and those who have been in the business for a while will have great connections that can match your property with the best tenants. Plus, they will likely be able to get you preferred rates and terms with the best vendors and contractors which will again fuel a higher bottom line.

A management company that also understands developing and investing themselves can be of a lot more benefit than just dealing with maintenance and tenant issues. Their name alone can add value to your commercial property. Though, just as valuable is the insight and guidance they can provide from their experience with other investors and buildings. They have seen others make mistakes and have seen others succeed, and are able to provide a crucial perspective and advice on what you can do to maximize your property’s value. Perhaps they know what tenants haven’t paid their rent in other buildings and they know what improvements will help you yield the best ROI, both in terms of attracting higher quality tenants and drawing in more traffic to generate more sales.

Even though you may not have a specific time frame in which you plan to exit your property or investment, keep in mind that a good commercial management company can also make a difference here and help out. They will certainly have many connections with active buyers, as well as tenants who may be interested in buying their own building. This can be critical if you have an emergency and need to access your capital quickly without discounting.

The bottom line is that while commercial property management can be fairly straightforward, having a great management company on your side can mean the difference of thousands of dollars in returns each year, as well as ensuring that you investment equity is growing rather than stagnating.

To learn more about maximizing your profit from commercial real estate in Canada and to get more info on some of the great opportunities on the market contact Howard today by phone at 866-986-8673 or email him right now at howardm@redevgroup.ca.

Thank you for reading.

Richard Crenian
www.redevgroup.com

What Type Of Commercial Real Estate Investment Is Right For New Investors?

2011-09-09T12:22:00.000-07:00

Investing in commercial real estate in Canada is certainly extremely attractive right now, but as a new investor, what type of commercial property should you be looking at?

Just because commercial real estate offers great returns, income, equity growth, and great security for your capital, it does not mean that you should rush in. There are a number of decisions you need to make – ultimately, one of the most important is what type of property is right for you.

Among the factors you should be considering are management, location, future growth prospects, and the amount of expertise that will be required. Many new investors imagine that investing in a small, one unit property is the way to go. After all, this is something small that they can afford and which is easily manageable. However, this really is not the best move. First off, a small single unit property means that you are relying on one tenant for your income, which can be risky. At the same time, traffic can be lower and it probably means you have to manage it yourself, which also is not the best use of your time. In the reverse, a little leverage is good, especially with today’s incredibly low mortgage interest rates and various partnership opportunities and vehicles that are available. This allows you to invest in a better quality property, which will offer more security and a higher return on investment. Multiple tenants will deliver steady income and higher rents, meaning hiring a professional management team is more affordable. This also provides a much better ROI on any improvements you do, and most likely, a higher quality of tenant which will increase your growth and returns exponentially.

You then have the choice between multifamily, industrial, office, and retail properties. Unless you know a lot about industrial properties and a specific industry, this may be a sector left for those with intimate knowledge of it. While there is a new surge in development and interest in multifamily property, you probably will find that it is much more volatile, management intensive, and produces lower returns than your other options. The office sector is great and pretty straight forward. You will definitely find that vacancy rates in the office sector in Western Canada are dropping to incredible lows and management is relatively easy. However, unless you are catering to high end office space around Canada’s growing future cities, you may notice new virtual trends in business will eventually dampen occupancy rates and returns. Finally, you have retail properties, with local strip malls or shopping centers standing out as being very attractive. Shopping plazas offer all the best of commercial real estate investment in terms of returns and growth, and they are something you certainly understand. Plus, with the current and forecasted surge in retail shopping and investment in Western Canada, it is this sector that is likely to post the best returns for the coming years.

To learn more about commercial real estate in Canada and to get more information on some of the great opportunities that are available today, contact Howard Manley today by phone at 866-986-8673 or via email now at howardm@redevgroup.ca.

Thank you for reading.

Richard Crenian
www.redevgroup.com

Eight Reasons Why Investing In a Canadian Retail Property Is a Good Investment

2011-09-08T12:08:00.001-07:00

1. Income and Capital Growth
If you have been looking for an investment that can provide for both your income and capital growth goals, with an attractive rate of return, you may have been hard pressed lately. Commercial real estate investment in shopping centers can give you both income and appreciation, with double digit returns.

2. You Know It
You may not have an intimate understanding of how commercial real estate investments work yet, but you probably understand a lot more about the mechanics than those of many other investments. In fact, you are likely a regular customer at local retail properties, whether it is the mall or the neighbourhood shopping center. You spend money there, and a portion of it goes to the owners. If you are that owner, you will be putting money back in your own pocket.

3. Diversification
Investing in retail properties does not just offer diversification from your other investments; it is a diversified asset in and of itself. With multiple tenants in various industries, your income and investment is well cushioned against any changes in trends or different business cycles.

4. Optimal Investment For Any Economic Condition
Strip malls and local shopping centers offer the optimal investment in any economic cycle. In a down period, shopping at local centers is the last to be affected, as they normally contain the essential everyday items people need and the small luxuries they don’t want to give up, no matter how broke they are. At the same time, retail properties are the first to benefit from a surge in spending when markets and the economy picks up.

5. Consistent Cash Flow
Multi-tenant retail properties offer a considerably more consistent cash flow than other commercial real estate investments, or residential real estate investment for that matter. This comes from diversification of tenants, longer term tenants, high profile brands that can be relied upon, and other factors.

6. Tax Benefits
Regardless of how you choose to invest in commercial real estate, whether it is directly by yourself, through a REIT, or in a partnership, you will find many tax advantages. However, some structures bring more than others. Look for those that offer a little more when it comes to deferring taxes until later, and if possible, until you are at a lower tax rate.

7. Simplified Management
Property management for commercial real estate, especially shopping centers, is a lot easier than for residential properties. Of course, you typically bring in more revenue for each tenant, but you also have less potential maintenance for each tenant as well. In addition, you can be sure that your tenants will be going extra lengths to make their individual spaces look good too so that they attract more business.

8. Growth
We are now in a great period of growth for retail in Canada. Retail sales are rising, new businesses are coming in, retail space is in great demand, and rents are rising. Now is definitely the time to get in low to cash in on this growth.

Want to find out more about the benefits of commercial real estate in Canada, or get more information on some of the current opportunities among Canadian retail properties? Contact Howard Manley by phone at 866-986-8673 or send him an email him right now at howardm@redevgroup.ca.

Thank you for reading.

Richard Crenian
www.redevgroup.com

Is It Wise To Invest In Real Estate In the USA?

2011-09-07T08:58:00.000-07:00

Although Canadians were already one of the top groups of real estate buyers in the US prior to the meltdown, recent trends have seen nothing short of a stampede southwards to pick up foreclosures and other alluring investment properties - but is this really a smart real estate investment for you?

This drive to pick up US homes as real estate investments by Canadians was highlighted this week with the release of new statistics demonstrating how Canadians have now over taken Californians as the top buyers in the state of Arizona. Since 2007, Canadians have gone from making up 11% of foreign buyers to a high point of 24%.

While Canadians are certainly investing in real estate all over the US, it is almost shocking to see so many flocking to Arizona, especially to Phoenix and Maricopa county. Why? Because it is currently probably the worst hit area of the entire country, which continues to slide down the precipice. Other parts of the US may be seeing a modest recovery, though not Phoenix, where the median home price has plunged almost 21% in the last year alone. In fact, AZ continues to see the highest foreclosure rates, with as many as 1 out of every 145 units receiving a foreclosure notice last month alone. This is almost double the rates of Michigan and Florida, which are often in the headlines as supposedly in the worst shape.

The surge in marketing by banks and investment companies loaded with inventory is no doubt the reason behind the heightened interest in the area, but you need to learn to see through the hype. Foreclosure properties can offer deals, though they also present a virtual minefield for investors. Think about it - the US economy is still in horrendous shape, and any hope of a sustained housing recovery still hangs by a thin thread that could break with any minor rattles from around the world.

Yes, real estate may be cheap south of the border right now, but ‘deals’ are all relative. A property being sold at 50% of what it sold for 5 years ago isn’t really a steal if it is only really worth 50% now and will take another 10-20 years to get back to where it once was. You also have to consider who you are buying from. Is it a new investment group who just sprouted up after the crash and has not learned the lessons that those who have been through several cycles have? Could that ‘turnkey’ real estate investment end up being a money pit that you have to fly down to repeatedly to try and fix up in order to resell at above market prices?

If you are retiring and you really want to live in Florida, that is one thing, but selecting wise real estate investments is something quite different. In contrast, the economy here in Canada, at least in the western Provinces of British Columbia, Saskatchewan and Alberta, is much healthier, the job market is an American’s dream and businesses continue to flourish with rapid growth being seen in all commercial real estate sectors. Plus, of course investing here means keeping your money at home and supporting our own economy and an investment you can really be proud of.

It’s like the stock market - people lose when they invest in things they really don’t understand. However, you know what is really going on here in Canada. You can see people shopping at your local shopping centers and you probably visit local shopping plazas regularly. You can see the money going in, so why not be on the other side and get that money back as the landlord? Well, perhaps not the physical property manager, but as a commercial real estate investor and property owner? Doesn’t that make a lot more sense?

Want to learn more about how you can profit from real estate investment in Canada, or get more information on some of the great opportunities that are available right now? Then get in touch with Howard Manley today either by phone on 866-986-8673 or via email at howardm@redevgroup.ca.

Thank you for reading.

Richard Crenian
www.redevgroup.com

Commercial Real Estate Investing - Choosing the Right Type For Your Needs

2011-08-26T09:04:00.000-07:00

There is no question that now is a great time for investing in commercial real estate in Canada. Commercial real estate should have a place in every one's portfolio, but what is the best way for you to invest?

There are a number of factors to consider when choosing the right commercial real estate investment. You not only need to decide which type of property is right for you, but what the right way to invest is. Commercial real estate may be an exciting and profitable proposition, but you still ought to ensure that you are making the right choices for your individual financial goals and needs.

The first thing you should be asking yourself is what your real purpose is. Are you looking for a property which you will use part of for your own business, or are the numbers the most important thing to ensure the returns are there? Are you most concerned about building up equity and increasing the size of your nest egg, or is an income investment that pays you consistently every quarter what you need, or both?

How much money do you have to invest? Do you have millions to put into a large Class A office building or to develop a new shopping mall, or have you been looking at small, single unit properties, hoping to get financing in order to leverage your commercial real estate purchase? Though even if you have a sizable amount of capital to invest, would you be better off spreading your investment over several properties to diversify and maximize your potential returns?

Are you planning on being hands on in buying, managing and selling commercial properties? Do you really have the expertise and time it takes to deal with multiple tenants and avoid making contract mistakes, which could cost you hundreds of thousands of dollars? Or is it smarter to have a professional handle negotiations and property management for you, in order to maximize returns and actually let you enjoy your money and free time?

If you haven’t looked into shopping centres in Canada for commercial real estate investment yet, you may find that they check a lot of the boxes. They provide both income and capital gains, and provide built in diversity and a cushion against changing business cycles with multiple tenants, as well as being something that you are already familiar with.

Choosing to invest through some form of partnership that provides expert advice and professional property management allows you to get on with what you love doing the most, while your money does all the work for you, as your property is managed to its maximum potential. This also allows you to invest smaller amounts in each property so that you are able to spread your eggs amongst multiple baskets to ensure you can cash out quickly if an emergency arises which requires you to access your funds.

Want to learn more about how you can profit from commercial real estate in Canada. or get more information on some of the great opportunities that are available? Contact Howard today by phone at 866-986-8673 or email him right now at howardm@redevgroup.ca.

Thank you for reading.

Richard Crenian
www.redevgroup.com

Edmonton: a Commercial Real Estate Investor's Goldmine

2011-07-29T10:26:00.000-07:00

While Alberta as a whole, is doing well and is back on track from the recession, Edmonton in particular offers attractive prospects for investors.

Calgary has continued to capture much of the limelight, but provincial capital Edmonton, won’t remain a secret goldmine forever. Those looking for real value and wise investments for both the short and long term, will find it hard to beat what Edmonton’s commercial real estate market has to offer.

Yes, the oil sands and energy sector have a lot to do with the booming economy, but there is now growth in all sectors, with great opportunities for those who lock into the best properties now. Recent news headlines have highlighted the boom in the industrial sector, and there is billions of dollars worth of building projects lined up in the pipeline for the area. Still, Edmonton remains one of the most affordable choices for those looking for a new home, both to live, and for their businesses. In fact, according to RBC Economics Research, the city still retains the title of the “most affordable city in Canada.” Statistics put the average housing payment, including taxes and insurance, at just 31.5% of the average income, leaving plenty of disposable income to be spent at local retailers.

Despite the draw to Edmonton, unemployment still remains incredibly low, with employers desperate for more workers. In fact, you may over hear them pressuring their workers to have more children. Perhaps nowhere in the world is there such a demand for workers right now, with some individual companies actively looking to hire 1,000 new employees effective immediately. This means long term growth, with higher wages being offered to entice more people to the area. As the local government is on board and doing their part to brand the province as a top choice for foreign workers, you can bet there will be plenty of money flowing in and out to local stores.

Alberta as a whole has been outperforming the rest of the nation, with nearly double the growth in retail. Edmonton has been named 4th fastest growing municipal market, though it could well be moving up in position. It used to be Toronto and Vancouver that were top choices for foreign retailers swarming into Canada, but Edmonton is now definitely set in the sights of many as a top option. Look at Apple, J. Crew, Victoria Secret, Nordstrom, Target, Lowe’s and others.

Whether you are looking for income investments or a way to grow your nest egg, retail properties can provide the returns you need to reach your financial goals. You may even be pleasantly surprised at just how great the returns are on commercial real estate properties here, the many tax benefits, and how easy it actually is to invest in shopping centers once you know how.

To learn more about how you can profit from commercial real estate in Edmonton, or to get more information on some of the great properties that are available, contact Howard today by phone at 866-986-8673 or email him right now at howardm@redevgroup.ca.

Thank you for reading.

Richard Crenian
www.redevgroup.com

Retail Property - an Investment That Will Keep Growing

2011-07-27T12:41:00.000-07:00

According to a new study by Reuters, global commercial real estate sales increased in the 2nd quarter of this year by 47% to $101 billion, putting us on track to pass $440 billion in 2011. Canada, of course, was one of the main beneficiaries of this direct investment in commercial real estate.

A continued migration in population to Canada’s western provinces and calls for immigration reform for temporary workers will continue to fuel business, and provide employers with access to quality talent. This influx is also further strengthening the residential housing market. This can be seen most prominently in Vancouver, where the metro area currently needs about 65,000 new rental properties a year to keep up with demand, but only 600 are being added. The Canadian Real Estate Association’s (CREA) chief economist, Gregory Klump, said ‘the Canadian housing sector remains on a solid footing” and that the current market factors “bode well for homes sales activity and prices going into the second half of 2011”. Of course, we all know that equity growth in the residential sector and homeowner confidence will only result in more spending at local shopping malls.

Another report from Reuters highlights this and quotes employers as being more confident than ever in adding jobs and expanding. It similarly points out solid growth across the board with retail sales up again and building permits on the rise, in addition to new jobs being added, creating a positive upward spiral in the economy.

However, what is really going to fuel increased returns and growth for those investing in retail properties is the continued rise in demand for retail space. Canadian shopping centers out perform American ones by 45% more sales per square foot at an average of $680. Some hot Canadian spots are pulling in as much as $1,200 per square foot, only surpassed by one location, the Forum Shops at Caesars Palace, Las Vegas.

The problem, at least for retailers, is the limited space and the resistance of local government to allow rezoning. Retailers like Ralph Lauren, Gap, Coach, Macy’s, Juicy Couture, and Crate & Barrel are battling for space, and are now fighting for prime locations in smaller communities with big populations. Large shopping malls often have no choice but to expand upwards if they want to add shopping areas, meaning closures and disturbing renovations, pushing consumers to frequent their local shopping plazas more often. This will be a trend that continues as many want to avoid the parking mazes and enjoy the personal touch at their own neighborhood shopping centers. When new construction does happen, it will boost commercial real estate sale prices and bring more traffic to small and mid-sized shopping centers too

The bottom line is, more demand means higher rents and better terms for landlords, resulting in higher returns and more valuable commercial investment properties. This makes it the ideal time to put your money into commercial real estate in the form of shopping centers.

To learn more about how to profit from commercial real estate in Canada, or get more information on some of the great retail properties that are currently available, contact Howard today via phone at 866-986-8673 or by email at howardm@redevgroup.ca.

Thank you for reading.

Richard Crenian
www.redevgroup.com

Immigration - A Positive For Your Commercial Real Estate Investment

2011-07-21T09:15:00.001-07:00

Commercial real estate investment in Canada continues to boom, with a large influx of both capital and foreign retailers looking to capitalize on the buoyant retail market and growth here. According to the Bank of Canada, employers are optimistic and confident in adding new jobs, though in order to sustain the current growth cycle, those jobs need to be filled.

There is already a lot of migration happening within Canada, with floods of individuals and families making the move to the western provinces of Alberta, BC, and Saskatchewan. This helps to further fuel the growth of cities like Victoria, Regina, Edmonton, and Calgary, propping up retail sales even more.

However, this still doesn’t seem to be enough to fill the demand for the workforce, according to Alberta’s Minister of Immigration and Employment, Thomas Lukaszuk. While he is clear that his first priority is to make sure Canadians are fully engaged in the workforce and have the jobs they need, he is also campaigning to allow more foreign workers entry and to give immigrants a permanent home.

Currently, temporary workers from abroad are able to stay for four years. After this time, they must leave the country for four years before re-applying to return. This presents two major problems for sustaining Canada’s growth and competitiveness. Firstly, once the period ends for these temporary workers, businesses need to start the process of recruiting and training all over again. This clearly adds a lot to the cost of doing business, digs into margins, and holds back progress. On top of this, it takes more money out of the economy that could be spent at Canadian stores. If these temporary workers were allowed to stay and bring their families here, it would offer more stability, enable steadier growth, and create stronger communities.

Competitiveness with other countries is the second major issue the current rules for temporary workers presents. While some workers may be happy to come for a couple of years and return home, others are looking for a more permanent move and one that doesn’t involve hauling their families and children from continent to continent every couple of years. With Australia and Dubai recognizing the importance of immigration to boost their economies and relaxing requirements, it adds increasing competition for the best minds and able bodies. In order to stay on the right path and remain a major world force, Canada needs to contemplate this very carefully.

If Thomas Lucaszuk and President of the Alberta Federation of Labour, Gil McGowan, who is supporting his calls on the federal government to open the gates are successful, this will clear the path to continued clear sailing for the economy, bringing with it higher returns for commercial real estate investors.

The new influx of immigrants will also prop up the housing market and keep demand high, strengthening the economy as a whole and flowing through to more retail spending at local shopping malls and plazas.
This is great news for those already invested in commercial retail properties. This also signals a great time for others to get in and lock into great prices for increasing returns and equity growth in the coming years.

Want to learn more about how you can benefit from commercial real estate investment in Alberta, BC, and Saskatchewan, and get more information on some of the great opportunities that are available? Contact Howard today by phone at 866-986-8673 or email him now at howardm@redevgroup.ca.

Thank you for reading.

Richard Crenian
www.redevgroup.com

Commercial Real Estate or Starting a Business: An Analysis

2011-07-19T12:05:00.000-07:00

Do you want to put your money to work and are wondering whether it is better to start your own business, or instead, invest in commercial real estate? Let’s analyze the differences to see which one may be your preferred choice.

Set Up & Income
Launching or buying your own business can be fun and rewarding in a lot of ways. However, running your own enterprise also means that you often have to wait months, sometimes even years, to actually turn a real profit. Also, consider that most small businesses fail within this time frame. Even once you begin rolling in revenue, your success and income will constantly depend on your ability to be a master at great marketing and fight off the competition.

In contrast, putting your money to work in a commercial real estate investment, especially in the form of retail shopping malls, means immediate returns from day one and a nice cushion provided by multiple tenants in different businesses. This ensures that no matter where trends go, there will always be money coming in - they do all the hard work and you get to collect the rent checks.

Complexity & Management
Not only is starting up your own venture complex, but so too is the day to day management. Besides marketing, you have staff to hire and manage, ever changing industry regulations to navigate, and potential liabilities that can sink you to duck and dodge daily. Even if you recruit a great manager, you may still often find yourself being drawn into the day to day operations, taking away from the freedom and peace of mind that got you into business in the first place.

Commercial real estate investments, once made, can be managed by any one of a large group of professional property managers. This allows you to kick back and let your money work for you, while you enjoy doing the things that you love the most and are more important.

Resale & Cashing Out
It can be very difficult to build real, tangible value in your own business. It can take many years, and if you haven’t set it up right or trends change, you can find it never becomes more than “just another job.”

It is also very difficult for potential buyers to obtain financing for a business in comparison to real estate, which dramatically shrinks your pool of potential candidates for resale. In the reverse, commercial real estate is relatively easy to finance and naturally builds tangible, real value that can be cashed in at anytime. This way, you never have to worry if you become unable to work or if you need a large lump sum of cash.

Would you like to learn more about how you can invest in commercial real estate in Canada, or receive more information on some of the great opportunities that are available? Contact Howard Manley today by phone on 866-986-8673 or email him right now at howardm@redevgroup.ca.

Thank you for reading.

Richard Crenian
www.redevgroup.com

Alberta - Economic & Investment Powerhouse

2011-07-15T12:43:00.000-07:00

Alberta, Canada has been making a solid push to become a global economic force, with Calgary leading the charge as a powerful new world city. However, its true strength is just being discovered by the rest of the planet. So, how can you cash in on it?

For economists and investment experts, this should come as no surprise. The western province of Alberta not only boasts significant natural resources, most notably its oil, but it also enjoys a solid financial system and has long been preparing itself for this moment. Those who live in or who have invested in Alberta before, whether through opening their own business or through real estate investment, know that the province has a healthy and amicable attitude toward investment, as well as a commitment to solid and sustainable growth. The latter may have kept Alberta under the radar until now, but it is certainly paying off.

With a solid industrial foundation that supports the economy, a structured plan for growth, and attractive tax rates, it is obvious this run isn’t going to dwindle anytime soon. However, not many were prepared for this week’s news that really established this part of Canada as a force to be reckoned with. Who would have believed that this slice of the “Great White North,” with a population of just 3.7 million, would outperform the entire 50 United States and its 311 million residents? Well, it did on the job front creating shock-waves that further dampen the outlook for our southern neighbours. Despite the US population being 85 times bigger, tiny Alberta added 22,000 new jobs in June, compared to 18,000 in the US. In terms of unemployment rates, Alberta enjoys an incredibly low 5.6%, while the true US figure lays around 16.2%, and likely much higher.

It may not be surprising to see a lot more of those tourists from down south sticking around a little longer, with an eye on making the trip permanent. In addition to a continued buoyant migration into Alberta and a great tourism sector, international companies and investment money is rolling in, further bolstering the province.

Those looking for new investment opportunities and a way to cash in on this growth are wise to look to retail properties for commercial real estate investments that promise handsome income returns and a very rosy outlook for growing equity. Do not limit your search to Calgary, just because it is stealing a lot of the limelight. Provincial capital Edmonton, while perhaps seriously undervalued and extremely affordable right now, is certainly beginning to feed off of the benefits of the growing economy. It will no doubt offer some great returns of its own to savvy real estate investors.

Want to learn more about how you can profit from commercial real estate in Alberta, or get more information on some of the great properties that are available? Contact Howard today by phone at 866-986-8673 or email him right now at howardm@redevgroup.ca.

Thank you for reading.

Richard Crenian
www.redevgroup.com

A Perfect Retirement Solution For Young Professionals

2011-07-13T12:24:00.000-07:00

Planning for the future and even retirement is something all 30 to 40 year old professionals today must face. Unfortunately, many are behind on their savings and investments, while pressure to provide for loved ones and the desire for more freedom ahead of retirement is constantly at the forefront of their minds. So what should you be doing to make sure that you achieve your financial goals?

Too many young people have put off starting a serious savings and investment regimen for too long, while many of those who had invested wildly in the hopes of building a significant nest egg have quickly lost much of their gains in recent years. So how do you catch up and get ahead? How can you make sure that you will be able to provide for yourself comfortably in retirement? How can you make sure that your children are provided for, while being able to leave something behind for them? How can you afford big expenses in between now and then, while being able to have more freedom to spend quality time with those you love and enjoy life a little more?

You need an investment vehicle that will provide significant capital growth over the next 5-10 years that can be reinvested. You will also need an investment that allows you to access your money prior to retirement if you really need it, so that you can afford college tuition, and down payments on cars or homes, to help out your kids as they prepare to take off on their own. Plus, if you don’t want to be working overtime forever, as well as weekends and holidays, you need something that will also throw off regular income to subsidize your lifestyle and allow you to pay your bills if you ever get sick, injured, or forced into early retirement.

Let’s face it - stocks haven’t been kind to everyone, savings accounts do not provide any of the things you really need, and if you have actually read the fine print on your life insurance policy lately, you will know that the odds of your family ever actually being able to collect anything is often slim at best. In contrast, commercial real estate investment provides healthy returns with both regular income and capital growth potential, not to mention great security for your nest egg.

This is exactly what you need to catch up, get ahead, and create a solid future foundation not just for yourself, but those you love as well. Plus, in addition to the direct monetary benefit through monthly or quarterly rents or dividends and growing equity, commercial real estate investment provides a pride in ownership that you will really love and discover gives you great peace of mind. It will also give you an unbeatable feeling of accomplishment when you point out your investment to your spouse and kids!

You don’t have to own a mint to get started in commercial real estate investing. If you look around, you are sure to find plenty of incredibly attractive opportunities throughout Canada’s western provinces that can help you achieve your real financial goals.

Contact Howard Manley today by phone at 866-986-8673 or email him right now at howardm@redevgroup.ca to learn more about how you can profit from commercial real estate in Canada, or get more information on some of the great opportunities that are available.

Thank you for reading.

Richard Crenian
www.redevgroup.com

A Must-Have For Anyone's Investment Portfolio

2011-07-11T13:00:00.000-07:00

As we progress through life and our circumstances change, so too do our investment needs and strategies. However, there is one investment that should be in everyone’s portfolio, especially now.

Perhaps you are young and looking for somewhere to put away your money to have your capital grow, while allowing you to tap into your cash for large purchases if you need it. Maybe you already have a sizable nest egg, and you just need a steady source of income that will pay you more than keeping it in the bank. Or, it could be that you have lost a good chunk of your savings in recent years and find yourself ill prepared for retirement and need an investment that can provide both capital growth and income. Whatever your circumstances, commercial real estate investment could be exactly what you need.

If you are missing this essential ingredient in your portfolio, perhaps it is time to take a serious look at what investing in commercial property can do for you, not just in terms of returns right now, but in really helping you to reach your financial goals, whatever they may be. Liquid cash savings is crucial, as it is wise to have a little extra cushion in a term deposit. You may also be a whiz at picking stocks, or have even wisely chosen a business venture to back that looks like it will pay off. Still, commercial real estate can help you diversify your portfolio and provide stability, with a hybrid investment that is more secure than the stock market and definitely more profitable than your savings account.

Why invest in commercial real estate now? There really hasn’t been a better time to invest in commercial properties in Canada. Prices and returns are attractive, but there is still plenty of room for your investment to grow. The economy is showing incredible strength, with growth in all major sectors, which indicates a solid framework on which jobs will continue to be added, incomes will rise and commercial property values will soar. Plus, with the right advice, you will find entry into commercial real estate investment is a lot easier than you thought and you can enjoy real pride in the ownership of your investment.

If you are new to the commercial real estate market, then look for a solid company to work with who has a proven track record of smart investment choices and offers affordable ways to get in and test the waters. Expect to see above average returns for the next few years in terms of income as well as buoyant growth, though look for retail properties if you really want to capitalize on the best opportunities not only for right now, but for the next 5+ years as well.

Want to learn more about how you can benefit from commercial real estate investing in Canada or get more information on the types of returns you can expect? Contact Howard today by phone at 866-986-8673 or email him now at howardm@redevgroup.ca.

Thank you for reading.

Richard Crenian
www.redevgroup.com

Who Will Benefit Most From an Investment in Canadian Commercial Real Estate?

2011-06-22T09:31:00.001-07:00

1. Young Individuals & Couples
Young individuals and couples have a lot to gain from getting into commercial real estate early. It can give you a vehicle to begin building up immense amounts of equity, which can be used to pay for those big ticket items later in life such as purchasing your own home, sending the kids to college, or taking care of aging parents. It is also a way to begin on the path to obtaining a great retirement fund.

2. Those Seeking A More Flexible Lifestyle
The recent changes in the global economy have made more individuals aware of their desire for more freedom and flexibility. With the right investments, they can live the lifestyle they want, without compromising their financial goals. Commercial real estate is one of the investment tools which can accomplish this, by providing ongoing passive income without the need for hands on management.

3. Those Approaching Retirement
Those approaching retirement need to place their savings into investment vehicles that will throw off regular income to help take care of ongoing living costs. The problem with some other types of investments that you may be being offered is that they probably do not offer the same capital growth, safety and easy management which commercial real estate does. Plus, by taking advantage of advanced real estate partnership structures, you will find that you still have flexibility and much easier access to your cash if needed in the case of an emergency.

4. Anyone Seeking Higher Returns
Anyone who is not seeing attractive returns on their savings and retirement accounts needs to take a look at commercial real estate as an option. When you look at not only the income thrown off by commercial real estate, but the equity growth and tax advantages, you will probably find it very hard to justify not getting in. You only have so much time to prepare for retirement and the income you will need then, as well as accumulating a nest egg for your beneficiaries. Those who lost money in the last few years or who have started saving late and desperately need to make up for lost time are amongst those who should look at investing in commercial real estate.

5. Those Who Need To Diversify
When you look back at any of the crises that resulted in people losing their net worth and going bankrupt over the last few decades, much of this could have been avoided through diversification of assets. This may be hard for some people to swallow, but it is true. You should always be prepared for the worst and hope for the best. Don’t leave all your eggs in one basket or you are just asking for trouble.

6. Residential Real Estate Investors Looking To Move Up
Residential real estate investors who are looking to graduate to the next level and join the real winners in the investment and real estate game should definitely be looking at commercial real estate options. Those who have already spent some time as a landlord in the residential world will find a lot of advantages in commercial real estate, and will be stunned that they waited so long to try it out.

7. Businesses
Businesses, whether they are just starting out or are getting ready for another round of expansion, will find many benefits in commercial real estate. Perhaps the numbers work out better to own your own property? Can you offset your expenses by investing in a property with other tenants? Will buying real property when launching a new start up make it easier for you to get funding?

Find out if commercial real estate investing is right for you, and what it can do for you by contacting Howard today by phone at 866-986-8673 or email him right now at howardm@redevgroup.ca.

Thank you for reading.

Richard Crenian
www.redevgroup.com

The Hassle-Free Way to Becoming a Commercial Property Landlord

2011-06-21T12:26:00.000-07:00

All signs point to this being an incredible time of opportunity for those who make the move into commercial real estate investment – especially in Canada’s western provinces of Alberta, British Columbia and Saskatchewan, and in particular, cities such as Victoria, Regina, Edmonton and Calgary.

The industrial sectors and responsible planning by local municipalities are providing a solid platform on which the rest of the economy can continue to grow in a stable way, for decades to come. Businesses are expanding and opening new locations, with many outlets already planned over the next five years. Office space is in high demand and companies are not afraid to hire again. In fact, they know it is essential in order to stay ahead of their competition and position themselves to take advantage of the surge in population and increased economic activity to come. Retail sales and volumes continue to climb, promising commercial real estate investors handsome rents and high cash flow levels, in addition to ongoing equity growth.

For those still wondering whether commercial real estate investing is for them, despite the attractive market conditions, there are truly few other options that can provide the same level of security, high returns, regular passive income and capital gains all at the same time. Plus, it is nice to own something tangible that you can see and feel. It is a great feeling to drive by your commercial property with your children or grandchildren in the car and point out your holdings and even those that may one day be theirs. It can teach some very valuable lessons and plant the seeds of smart money management, even if they don’t realize it yet.

However, while the lure of commercial real estate investing and the profits it can bring are currently extremely attractive, you must have realistic expectations and know what you are really getting yourself into. There is no question the returns can be very high and that commercial real estate can help you build amazing real wealth. However, becoming a commercial real estate landlord yourself is not without its own hassles and headaches, especially if you have never done it before. What many won’t tell you when they are promoting the benefits of commercial real estate investing is the specialized knowledge it takes to navigate contracts, lease negotiations and the amount of time it can consume.

The good news is that there are plenty of options. You don’t have to jump in by yourself and manage your own commercial investment properties. In fact, you probably shouldn’t even consider this for your first, and perhaps even second, time around. Despite how bullet-proof the current market appears, it is always wise to take a little time to learn from the experts and get your feet wet with a truly experienced professional by your side. So if you are considering investing in commercial real estate for the first time, you should absolutely take advantage of today’s opportunities, but also look for partnership opportunities that can lower your risks, provide ongoing help and guidance, and provide professional property management, for a stress free, high performing investment.

For those of you who want an to learn more about how you can profit from commercial real estate in Canada, and/or the best ways to take advantage of the great opportunities that are available, contact Howard Manley today either by phone at 866-986-8673 or email at howardm@redevgroup.ca.

Edmonton: The Commercial Real Estate Investor's Secret Goldmine

2011-06-17T11:36:00.000-07:00

Vancouver and Calgary may have been grabbing most of the recent limelight when it comes to commercial real estate investment opportunities in the news; however, those who look a little closer will discover that Edmonton is one of the most undervalued and underestimated markets when it comes to growth and income potential.

There are many reasons that make Edmonton a prime pick for savvy investors of all types. It is a strong market that is being developed in a sustainable way, which packs a lot of value and security for those who desire not just high levels of regular income and dividends, but also long term capital growth as well.

Edmonton may not be home to as many major corporate offices as Calgary, but it does have some major players who have a large presence and a strong back bone in the industrial market. A good industrial market is the foundation in which any stable market is built on. Here in Edmonton, industrial properties have been in high demand. The big companies have learned important lessons from the past few years, and won’t be rushing out to build on spec anytime soon, meaning increased demand for current inventory. There is a lot of money coming into Edmonton, with the Chinese investing $2 billion in the last 18 months alone. The peak window of opportunity for commercial real estate investors may have passed for the industrial sector here, but this only suggests the office and retail market are ripe for investment.

The office sector in Edmonton has experienced tremendous growth recently. New inventory which has been added in the last couple of years has been well absorbed and vacancy rates continue to plummet, while demand and rents rise. Accountants, engineers, lawyers, software developers, and consultants have been amongst those hungry for office space in Edmonton. The surge in office sector activity demonstrates a sound recovery, building on the already solid industrial sector and shows that businesses are confident in a positive outlook and are not afraid to expand and add to payroll. According to experts, this is a trend which is expected to continue for at least the next 10-12 years, which will offer income and stable capital gains for commercial real estate investors.

All of this leads to better prospects for the retail market, and subsequently, those commercial real estate investors looking for smart investments among shopping centres. Wages are high in Alberta, with a large percentage of disposable income available to be spent at retailers. The wisest retailers who have done their research know this, and see the big pay off per square foot of space. This makes many choose Edmonton as their preferred location for their first moves into Alberta, or even Canada. This includes the likes of Victoria’s Secret and Apple, who have plans to double their space in the West Edmonton Mall. Steve Jobs knows a thing or two about commercial real estate, as demonstrated by the building of his new headquarters, and it can’t be denied that he has a talent for picking great markets. If he is investing in Edmonton, then you can bet that the retail sector here is a great choice for all commercial real estate investors.

Would you like to learn more about how you can profit from commercial real estate in Edmonton, and get some more information on the local market and great opportunities that are available? Then contact Howard today by phone at 866-986-8673 or by email right now at howardm@redevgroup.ca.

Thank you for reading.

Richard Crenian
www.redevgroup.com

What To Consider When Investing In Commercial Real Estate

2011-06-03T13:32:00.000-07:00

There are many types of commercial properties in which to invest, as well as a different number of ways to invest. You may have come across attractive commercial real estate investment opportunities recently, but what should you be focusing on when evaluating one of these deals?

Of course, property value and ensuring that you are getting a good price is important. However, there are many other considerations to keep in mind when deciding whether or not to invest in a given commercial real estate opportunity.

These include:
• Returns
• Risk
• Growth
• Sustainability
• Taxes
• Management
• Exit strategy

Returns

The promise of high returns is appealing. However, perhaps what might be more important is how much they can be relied upon and how long it will be before you start receiving them. Unfortunately, you can’t always take a seller’s word for what their returns have been. You need to ensure that the proper due diligence is done before acquiring or investing in a property. Income should be verified with tenants, and a paper trail should be established to avoid disappointment later. Currently, the emphasis in the market is on immediate returns. Yes, new properties are being built, but this is clearly not a good time for speculative investment. Rather, look for opportunities on properties that are already producing returns from day one.

Risk

No type is 110% without any risk at all. You can, however, minimize your risks by making smart investments. Elevated risk comes in when you are trying to tackle a commercial property all by yourself - you over-leverage your investment, returns are not already proven, and you don’t have the expertise or a partner who does. Look for commercial real estate investment opportunities that solve as many of these issues as possible.

Growth

Great monthly or quarterly income returns are obviously a good thing. Perhaps that is what you are really looking for. However, if you have a need for that income and are not going to be re-investing it, you also need to look for a commercial real estate opportunity that provides great prospects for equity growth as well.

Sustainability

Immediate returns and high returns are attractive, but you also want to make sure that they are sustainable. Look at what is going on in the local market and consider whether this is an area that is experiencing growth or decline. Will there still be plenty of business for your tenants here, 5 years from now?

Taxes

Making more money is necessary, but this can also mean more taxes. Look for opportunities that will minimize your tax liabilities on any gains, will help you defer taxes until a time when they will be lower, or an investment that will mean tax free returns.

Management

Who will manage your investment? Do you really want to be involved in the day to day management of a commercial property? Do you want to have to deal with vendors and tenants, or is it better to have a professional company managing on your behalf? Look for a company that is skilled at attracting new tenants, negotiating leases, and dealing with regular maintenance.

Exit Strategy

Even if returns are great and equity is growing steadily, it is always wise to go into an investment with a clearly defined exit strategy. You can always choose to hold onto the property longer, but you should have an idea of how and when you will sell.

To learn more about commercial real estate in Canada or to get more information on some of the great opportunities available contact Howard Manley today by phone at 866-986-8673 or email at howardm@redevgroup.ca.

Thank you for reading.

Richard Crenian
www.redevgroup.com

Commercial Real Estate - Why Edmonton Is a Good Choice For an Investor

2011-06-02T13:00:00.000-07:00

Edmonton, Alberta may not be seeing as much of the limelight in the news as neighboring Calgary, but does this make it a less appealing choice for commercial real estate investment?

Actually, Edmonton has a lot going for it, besides being the capital of the province. Throughout the last year, there has been a large amount of activity by commercial real estate investors, and property management firms have found themselves extremely busy. If you talk with those in supporting industries that serve the commercial real estate market in Edmonton (commercial painting and maintenance firms), you will also find that they have been busy remodeling and upgrading existing investment properties as well.

Edmonton may not be as big of an international star as Calgary, which has been attracting much attention as a rising ‘World City’; however it does have many advantages for those looking for a wise commercial investment that will provide steady income and healthy growth as a long term investment.

You will find that both the commercial real estate and residential housing markets are currently more affordable than other areas of Western Canada. As the the influx and migration from the east continues by those in search of jobs, Edmonton will continue to be a top choice as a fantastic place to relocate to and live, both for the quality of life, and the affordability of housing. In fact, according to the recently published “7th Annual Demographia International Housing Affordability Survey”, Edmonton was ranked as the most affordable city in Canada.

However, it is not just the price of the local real estate that is attracting buyers and new residents. Edmonton has also become serious about sustainability. This can be seen in both the the new communities that are being developed, incorporating better housing which is closer to shopping, and in the economy as a whole, as the commitment to create jobs and industry grows in tandem with the sustainable real estate sector.

Tourism also continues to grow in Edmonton, as more and more people from around the globe want to see what the buzz about Canada is, and if it is somewhere they may like to stay. This will only continue help the local economy grow.

Of course as the home to the West Edmonton Mall, North America’s largest mall, shopping has also been a part of Edmonton’s great history. Today, commercial real estate investors will find many great deals on retail properties in Edmonton. For those looking for income investments with great returns and plenty of room for equity growth in the next few years, Edmonton is definitely worth investigating further.

Want to learn more about commercial real estate in Edmonton, Canada, the local market, or get more information on some of the great investment opportunities that are available? If so, contact Howard Manley today by phone at 866-986-8673 or via email at howardm@redevgroup.ca.

Thank you for reading.

Richard Crenian
www.redevgroup.com

Getting Started In Commercial Real Estate Investing - What Is Your Best Option?

2011-06-01T12:39:00.000-07:00

There is no question that commercial real estate investing remains one of the best and wisest forms of investment, but what is the best way to get started?

Commercial property investment is a great choice for those who are looking for a passive income vehicle, which also offers incredible wealth building potential. A good commercial real estate investment property can provide immediate returns, many tax advantages, enable you to subsidize your regular monthly income, or allow you to retire early. At the same time, it can offer great capital growth for building your nest egg, whether you anticipate important events in the near future that will require a large amount of cash or if you just want to pass down a sizable inheritance to your loved ones. As far as returns go, it is also difficult to find another way to realize such significant and stable returns which offer anywhere near the security that real estate does. In fact, it was surprising to see that recently, in answer to one real estate investing guru’s tips on how to do deals daily, a commercial investor replied that they found themselves set for life with just a couple of great commercial real estate investments.

However, your success in commercial real estate investing all depends on getting started the right way. Let’s be honest - all investments carry some form of risk, even if they are miniscule. Commercial real estate can seem a little complex for those completely new to it. You will certainly want to take the time to learn a little about the jargon used, what areas are prime for investment right now, and speak to a professional who can help guide you in your choices.

There are a variety of options to choose from when getting started in commercial real estate investing. Aside from locations, you have to consider whether or not you want to try your hand at property management, which can be time consuming and trying, or whether it would be smarter to have a professional company manage the property for you. You also need to choose between single unit stand-alone properties or multi-unit complexes. Will you go for industrial, multi-family, office, or retail properties?

Financing a commercial property yourself and trying to do it alone can be a lot of work. Also, it obviously means that all of the risk is on you. Even if you have the cash to purchase several commercial properties, there is a lot to learn and master. However, there are other options. Real estate investment firms offer the option of partnering with others, or acquiring shares of a commercial real estate investment project. This comes with many advantages for the new investor. This will provide you with an experienced and professional team to assist you every step of the way; from identifying the best opportunities, to negotiating the best deals, and to putting an expert management in place to ensure you get the most out of your investment. Additionally, this means that you can invest with a significantly smaller amount of capital, learn the ropes, and learn how the pros make great returns consistently, without the risk.

If you are interested in learning more about getting into commercial real estate investing in Canada, or for more information on some of the best opportunities that currently available, contact Howard today. He can be reached by phone on 866-986-8673 or via email at howardm@redevgroup.ca.

Thank you for reading.

Richard Crenian
www.redevgroup.com

Commercial Real Estate Investing: Location, Location, Location

2011-05-27T06:46:00.000-07:00

You’ve heard it before - the key to making a great real estate investment is all about ‘location, location, location’, but what does that really mean? What makes a good location for investing in a piece of commercial property?

There are several ways you need to analyse the location of an investment. Unlike buying a home, when you may simply weigh location by being in a great neighborhood, on a good lot, and close to the conveniences you value most, when it comes to commercial real estate investment, you ought to be thinking on a little broader scale.

As you most likely will not be worrying about hands on management, or having to be at your commercial property everyday, the world is your oyster when it comes to commercial property. So on a global scale what makes a good choice of location? There are a number of things you will want to consider when weighing the options of investing at home or abroad. Government, its stability, the legal system, and attitude towards investors, are things to keep in mind in order to make a safe investment. Taxes are another consideration, though you may also find convenient tax vehicles for investing that can result in tax free, or at least deferred returns, if planned correctly. You also need to factor in the banking system. Is it sound? is there financing available? Even if you do not plan on using financing yourself, the availability of funding will affect the value of your property in both terms of being able to keep your property fully leased, as well as the ability to sell to a buyer who may need financing, at least in part. When you put all of this together, you will certainly find that Canada checks all of the boxes and comes out among, if not at the top, of the list of most attractive options.

Next you should be looking at location on a city level. Despite how a country is doing as a whole, all real estate is local, and there are always cities that are under-performing, while others are out-shinning the rest of the pack. What should you be looking for in location when it comes to a city level? Of course you want to make your commercial investment somewhere that the local economy is growing. However, you also have to look to the future. Is it growing in a sustainable way? Is it predicted to continue growing? Is the population increasing? If you have been paying attention to the news, you will have seen that both Calgary and Vancouver have been named as emerging powerhouses and ‘World Cities’. Additionally, they have recently claimed an array of other titles including being praised to sustainability. While there are other growing and promising cities in Western Canada, these two definitely stand out for growth and security.

You also need to look at industry. Each sector; multifamily, office, industrial and retail, may be doing a little better or worse at any given time, however, you should look for a location where at least the majority of these sectors are performing well, or are at least improving. This shows strong potential for job growth and continued good performance in the coming years.

Of course you will want to analyse the specific location of your commercial investment as well. Every city has areas that may be becoming stale, while others are on their way up. However it is here that you should really turn to a local professional who has an intimate knowledge of local business and trends, and who can guide you to the best individual properties.

Want to learn more about how you can profit from commercial real estate in Canada, or get more information on some of the great opportunities that are available? Contact Howard today by phone at 866-668-7344 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 866-668-7344 end_of_the_skype_highlighting, or email him right now at howardm@redevproperties.ca.

Thank you for reading,

Richard Crenian
www.redevgroup.com

Retail Competition Heats Up Promising Improved Outlook Commercial Property Investors

2011-05-26T09:07:00.001-07:00

Retail competition is heating in major Western Canadian provinces, signaling even better returns and growth for commercial real estate investors.

The statistics hitting the news headlines over the last few months have shown incredible growth in the retail sector. This is not just limited to retail sales booming, but also vacancy rates dropping and appetizing returns being realized by commercial real estate investors. However, in cities like Vancouver, Calgary and Regina we are still just seeing the tip of the iceberg with continued buoyant growth expected over the coming years.

Much of the movement in the retail sectors in the Western Canadian provinces is of course coming from a combination of westward migration, as well as the importation of many US and foreign brands, as Canada’s new world cities draw attention from around the globe. According to one news segment, a top bank economist has predicted a competitive fight between Canadian and other retailers, as foreign chains move in. Many of these will be able to compete heavily on price, and are attracted to Canadian cities like Calgary and Vancouver, because the price of goods is so high here in comparison. From cars to sports shoes to computer equipment as well as regular consumer goods, Canadians often pay 20% more than their counterparts south of the border. A battle over retail space by more and more retailers clamouring for room to sell their wares is sure to squash vacancy rates and pump up rents. The tales of Tiffany’s, Target, Marshalls, Crate and Barrel, and Victoria’s Secret moving in have been widely publicised, with 7 of 10 of the United States’ top retailers planning to expand into Canada.

Think this sounds like a little too much shopping? Not by a long shot. In fact experts say that Canadians have long been under-served when it comes to retail. Estimates put the US at 23 square feet of shopping floor space per capita, while here in Canada, we are closer to 14 square feet per capita. So there is still plenty of room to grow, especially if goods do become slightly more affordable.

This all means much better returns, consistent income, and healthy equity growth for commercial real estate investors who are investing in the retail sector, and specifically in shopping centres and plazas around Western Canada’s major cities, including the likes of Regina, Victoria and Edmonton, in addition to those already mentioned.

Fortunately, while things have already been improving in the commercial real estate world, there are still plenty of great deals to be found for those looking for passive income and capital appreciation, if you know where to look; though there is no doubt that now is the time to lock into the best opportunities, before they go up in price.

For more information about the commercial real estate, and to find out what shopping centre opportunities are available for investment right now, contact Howard Manley via email at howardm@redevproperties.ca or give him a call now on 866-668-7344 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 866-668-7344 end_of_the_skype_highlighting.

Thank you for reading,

Richard Crenian
www.redevgroup.com

Can Retail Still Benefit from the Fight Between Residential and Industrial Properties in Vancouver?

2011-05-25T07:34:00.001-07:00

There is a battle over commercial property going on in Vancouver. Why, and what, will it mean for commercial real estate investors, and the retail sector?

The fight going on between residential developers and local municipalities is mainly centered around waterfront properties along the Fraser River and Burrard Inlet. So what’s all the commotion about? Forward thinking municipalities are trying to hold on to this land for industry and businesses along the waterway and close to highways and railways. They are focused on a growth strategy that will continue to support job growth, and a healthy overall local economy. While on the other side, residential developers see the land as cheaper source of property and an excellent choice for new residential developments. Of course, much of this land would need to be rezoned, but the hope is that more friendly administrations in the future will make this easier.

The battle is heating up as the last parcel of this Vancouver property, allowed to be developed for mixed residential and commercial use, was launched as a new ParkLane homes project. Some of the recent developments in the area have proven very successful. However, experts point out that the remaining industrial land needs to remain as such, in order to support job growth to keep Vancouver’s rise as a world city sustainable. Between now and 2040, 550,000 new homes are expected to be built to accommodate the influx of new residents, though also plans for the creation of 600,000 new jobs.

Advances have been made on both sides, with attempts to grab up or reserve as much of this land as possible. This has resulted in prices shooting up from $100,000 per acre 6 years ago, to now over $2 million per acre in some areas. So what does this all mean for the retail sector and commercial real estate investors interested in shopping centres?

Obviously no one side is going to obliterate the other in this battle. We will likely continue to see more residential developments built over time, as well as many more jobs created due to the municipalities’ wise strategies and tough stances. The bottom line is that more residential housing means more business for existing retailers and shopping centres, which will not only mean bigger profits for store owners, but also larger returns for the investors who own retail properties. New jobs and better jobs will also mean more disposable income to be spent at shopping centres in Vancouver. Plus, any new retails centres that are built will only help attract more shoppers to the area, and will push up the values of retail space, and the value of existing retail properties.

So as a commercial property investor, this means that buying up or investing in retail properties in Vancouver now will certainly be a great move, and will result in a sustainable investment that increases in both dividends and equity.

If you are interested in learning more about how you can profit from commercial real estate in Vancouver or would like to receive information on some of the great opportunities that are available, contact Howard today either by phone at 866-668-7344 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 866-668-7344 end_of_the_skype_highlighting, or email at howardm@redevproperties.ca.

Thank you for reading,

Richard Crenian
www.redevgroup.com

What The Metro Vancouver Industrial VS Residential Battle Means For Retail

2011-05-25T07:34:00.000-07:00

There is a battle over commercial property going on in Vancouver. Why, and what, will it mean for commercial real estate investors, and the retail sector?

Thank you for reading,

Richard Crenian
www.redevgroup.com

3 Reasons Why You Should Capitalize on Canadian Commercial Real Estate

2011-05-20T06:18:00.000-07:00

If you are looking to increase the returns of your investment portfolio, look no further than Canadian real estate. Several economic factors have been responsible for fueling the growth and opportunity in the Canadian commercial real estate market, however, here are 3 reasons you should seriously consider investing in Canadian commercial real estate for increased investment returns.

Increased Volume in Commercial Real Estate Investment

The volume of commercial real estate investment increased in 2010 over the volume produced in 2009. According to a report by CB Richard Ellis, the investment in commercial real estate throughout Canada grew by 48% in 2010 and this trend is expected to continue throughout 2011.

Higher Oil Prices = Strong Loonie

The Canadian dollar is strongly tied to oil prices. As the price of oil continues to increase, the Loonie will continue to increase in strength over other foreign currencies. A stronger currency is often seen as a sign of economic health and stability, and will often spark increased investment from foreign investors and ultimately leads to increased demand for commercial real estate.

The Development of Calgary as a World Class City

Calgary has been steadily labelled as an Alpha city of the future, which is sparking growth and investment from many foreign companies and investors. Recently, Calgary was ranked the #1 city for the best quality of life, and was also recently voted the #1 place to live and work in Canada. When you consider these factors, in addition to the fact that Calgary is considered one of the World Capitals of the future, you can quickly see that the demand for commercial real estate is only set to increase with time.

If you are serious about taking advantage of Canada’s commercial real estate market, and generate stable returns for your investment portfolio, don’t delay! Start generating cash flow today, by calling Howard today at 866-668-7344 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 866-668-7344 end_of_the_skype_highlighting or e-mail him at howardm@redevproperties.ca.

Thank you for reading,

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