Mark Nicholls, director of Raine & Horne Commercial, Canberra. Photo: Michelle Kroll.
In recent years, Canberra’s urbanisation has been the core driver pushing the commercial real estate sector forward. With new developments emerging across the region, the nature of commercial property itself has also changed.
Gone are the days of simply providing a place to work or shop. Today’s precincts are masterfully mixed developments that unite all corners of the real estate sector. Increased accessibility, shared spaces and digital connectivity are changing the face of local commercial property.
The good news is that there is ample opportunity to source the perfect commercial property for your needs. The challenge for many, however, is that the commercial property market is a completely different ball game.
From higher entry costs, lengthier tenancy periods and increasingly complex regulation, there is much to be aware of. Whether you are a seasoned investor or searching for your first business lease, finding the right property is vital.
That is where Canberra’s commercial real estate agents can help. Much like their residential counterparts, commercial agents assist with the buying, selling and leasing of commercial properties.
Moreover, they can also assist with evaluating and negotiating a purchase and advocating for buyers. The best commercial real estate agents are familiar with aspects of property law and due diligence-related matters. This includes leasing, building development and a detailed knowledge of both commercial valuation and lending industries.
If you are seeking the services of a commercial real estate agent, you have come to the right place. Read on below for our pick of Canberra’s best.
What makes a great commercial real estate agent?
Great commercial real estate agents relieve the pressure of sourcing and selling commercial property. Their professional prowess, local connections and negotiating know-how can also help to fast-track property results. While evaluating potential agents for your commercial property needs, it may help to keep the following in mind:
- Commercial specialisation. While residential and commercial agents may operate under the same licence class, their area of expertise is vastly different. Due to their nature, commercial properties tend to be larger, more complex and equipped with industrial-grade facilities. They are also subject to specific legislative and regulatory requirements. That is why finding an agent with a commercial property specialisation is so important. Not only will they be experts in commercial property itself, they will also have a thorough understanding of property law. A well-versed commercial agent ensures client decisions are informed by years of experience and insider know-how. Moreover, they make sure that applications and offers are submitted swiftly. Importantly, they will take the time to understand your business needs and scout prospective properties quickly.
- Local expertise. When it comes to commercial real estate, nothing beats an agent with years of local expertise. Why? Because they know the market inside and out. From the hottest new releases and new zoning opportunities through to revamped buildings and specialist hubs, this knowledge is priceless. With a finger on the pulse, they have the added advantage of speed, crucial in the commercial market. While evaluating your agent options, be sure to review their portfolio of current and closed deals for peace of mind.
- Well connected. In the world of property, the real gems often go before they even hit the market. A well-connected agent boasts longstanding relationships with the region’s key developers and building owners. The best commercial agents work their professional networks to hunt down properties before anyone else does. In addition, they leverage relationships to secure optimum deals, rates or terms for clients. These connections are incredibly advantageous, particularly with the needs of business in mind.
- Marketing maven. Regardless of whether you are leasing, buying or selling a commercial property, urgency around marketing remains the same. True marketing mavens understand the best way to push or pull a commercial property. They know where to hunt, how to announce, and the quickest, most cost-efficient means to do so. While evaluating potential agents, ask how they use marketing techniques to assist clients. Working the major property websites just won’t cut it in the commercial space, so ensure they dig deeper.
- Solid negotiator. A business’s premises are typically one of the largest operational overheads faced by owners. Therefore, commissioning a negotiating powerhouse is so important. Commercial property deals can be ruthless, and strong agents will work their magic to ensure the right terms are negotiated for a deal. Consider an agent’s experience, portfolio and clientele. Also understand their approach and strategies for closing a contract.
The best commercial real estate agents in Canberra
Riotact’s editorial team has combed through 20 years of on-site comments to compile a list of the most recommended businesses according to you.
To be listed in our Best of Canberra series, each candidate needs to have consistently received positive feedback on Riotact and Facebook as well as maintained a minimum average of 4/5 stars on Google.
Raine & Horne Commercial
Raine & Horne Commercial Canberra specialises in office, retail, industrial and development property. This independently owned family business provides extensive local knowledge backed by the collective strength and comprehensive resources of the expansive Raine & Horne network.
A full-service real estate agency, Raine & Commercial Canberra manages the sale or leasing of commercial properties and property management services. The experienced team provides commercial property owners with strategic advice on divesting assets, marketing properties and negotiating transactions to secure buyers and tenants.
Raine & Horne Commercial Canberra keeps on top of trends, always providing cutting-edge services and solutions. Collaboration is key and commercial clients benefit from the broader Raine & Horne network’s referral, advice and investment knowledge.
Raine & Horne leverages best-in-class internal systems and software for high-quality property transactions and management. Long-term relationships ensure success. Raine & Horne Commercial Canberra adopts a customer-centric approach, with both first-time buyers and experienced property investors.
Raine & Horne Commercial Canberra covers Gungahlin, Belconnen, Woden, Tuggeranong, City, Fyshwick, Hume, Queanbeyan, Mitchell, and other surrounding suburbs in the ACT.
On Google, Lewis Jones wrote, “Raine & Horne Commercial was great to deal with and provided my company with expert and tailored advice on commercial property …”
Raine and Horne Commercial, Dickson. Photo: Michelle Kroll.
Raine and Horne Commercial, Canberra. Photo: Michelle Kroll.
Civium
As the only full-service real estate agency in Canberra, Civium Property Group first opened its doors in Kingston almost two decades ago. This family owned and operated business now services the eastern seaboard, boasting an extensive slate of end-to-end property services.
As commercial market experts Civium Property Group pride themselves on creating property solutions that achieve strategic goals whilst maximising return on investment. Whether you are a small company, large institution, multi-national, developer, or government agency, they have the market knowledge and industry prowess to deliver results.
Civium Property Group’s commercial arm specialise in sales and leasing, property and body corporate management, project and development investment, and insurance services. Each are geared to meet the individual needs of occupier, owner occupier, and investor clientele.
The groups large commercial portfolio includes everything from small strata through to large free-standing properties across the region. Their access to high stock volumes opens the door for many clients. Whether it be matching buyers and sellers on purchase criteria or introducing developers based on investment objectives, these connections are key to securing the right property.
The group attributes its success to a focus on stability, continuity, and preservation of business values. Their drive to deliver unrivalled value for clients has seen the adoption of innovative technologies and a progressive service.
This outcome focused team have their fingers on the commercial property pulse and a shared purpose to deliver the best outcome regardless of need. For collaborative solutions and enhanced commercial results Civium Property Group are a wonderful choice.
Andrew Hewat shared this glowing feedback on Google, “Having had opportunity to see, from the perspectives of both contractors and owners/residents, how effectively the Civium team functions, I can strongly endorse them as a wise choice for any property management needs.”
Burgess Rawson
As one of the largest locally owned commercial agencies in Australia; Burgess Rawson opened their doors in Canberra in 2016. Offering a range of commercial and residential real estate services including sales, leasing, appraisals, and property management, they provide the scale and reach of a national firm with the commitment of a local agent.
With a business built on long-term relationships, they pride themselves on a strong market focus with trust first and foremost. For commercial expertise and great results look to Burgess Rawson.
Kirsty O’Neil shared her experience with Burgess Rawson on Google, “I have found the team at Burgess Rawson Canberra to be an absolute pleasure to deal with over the past few years…. I would have no hesitation in recommending their services to anyone.”
Verv Property
Verv Property specialises in high-quality, detailed commercial property management, ensuring all legislative requirements and lease conditions are met. The Commercial Management Division is led by Natalie Shawcross, who has more than 15 years’ experience. Natalie manages all facets of the landlord-tenant relationship. She has managed sites up to 4,000 square metres.
On Google, Amir Pasha Peyrovi wrote, “Charlie is such a helpful, professional and responsive property manager ... She’s someone you can definitely trust.”
Ray White Commercial Canberra
Locally owned and operated for more than 20 years, Ray White Commercial Canberra brings the strength and scope of Australia’s largest real estate group to the region.
Based in the Canberra CBD their sales and leasing team are comprised of specialist operators across institutional, industrial, office and retails markets. They also bring expertise in project leasing, sales, and asset management.
With a track record valued at over $700m in commercial property assets across the region Ray White Commercial Canberra are a great choice.
Luke Bowman had this to say about his experience on Google, “I have worked alongside Ray White Commercial Canberra Team for over the past year - and found them a pleasure to work with. Their professionalism, efficiency, and attention to detail is among multiple qualities of which I have been impressed with.”
For additional commercial property services, check out our articles on the best property managers and the best strata managers in Canberra. To explore financing options, our article on the best commercial mortgage brokers may also be of interest. Finally, for our pick of the finest general agencies, see our article on the best real estate agents in the region.
Your experience with commercial real estate agents in Canberra
Thanks to our commenters who have provided insightful feedback. If you believe we have got it wrong, please let us know.
Have you had experience with any of the commercial real estate agents listed above? If so, share your feedback in the comments below.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a commercial real estate agent?
A commercial real estate agent is a licensed professional who works exclusively on the sale, lease and management of non-residential properties. Otherwise known as commercial property, this typically includes any building or land used for business activities or to generate a profit. Common commercial properties encompass retail, industrial, hospitality and office spaces.
How can a commercial real estate agent help me?
From finding the right space and negotiating leases through to valuations and buyer or selling advocacy, they possess an innate knowledge of not only the commercial property market, but the legislative conditions that govern it as well. If you are a commercial property owner, investor or occupier, a commercial real estate agent is an integral part of your professional services team.
What are the benefits of using a commercial real estate agent?
Employing the services of a commercial real estate agent offers many benefits, such as simplifying the complexity of commercial transactions, managing risks inherent in the commercial market, maximising returns, securing properties off-market, negotiating below market value, and simply the opportunity to be guided by and learn from their specialised expertise.
Are there any licensing requirements for commercial real estate agents?
Yes, as a requirement of the Agents Act 2003, all commercial real estate agents must be registered and licensed within the ACT. While three different types of real estate licences exist within the ACT, the most common is a real estate agent licence as issued by Access Canberra.
What does it cost to sell a commercial property?
Several common elements come together to contribute to the overall cost of a commercial property sale. These typically include legal fees, administrative charges, advertising costs and real estate agent commissions, which typically range from 2.5 per cent to 4 per cent and over within the ACT. Another thing to keep in mind is capital gains tax, along with any costs associated with preparing a commercial property for sale, such as staging, cleaning, minor maintenance, and landscaping.
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