Do you know the difference between commercial and retail properties? People use the terms interchangeably and but don’t assume they mean the same thing. This post will explore the different meanings between commercial vs retail property.

Commercial vs Retail Property: What You Need to Know

A commercial property is any real estate intended for a profit-generating activity. It can include activities that directly or indirectly result in profits for the occupant or owner.

Retail properties are those that owners/occupants use to sell or market products and services. It can cover anything from a small standalone store to a large shopping mall or complex.

Retail properties are a type of commercial real estate. However, they aren’t the only type.

Other Types of Commercial Properties

While retail properties are a common type of commercial real estate, the following are some of the other types of commercial real estate:

• Office: These properties are generally workplaces where businesses engage in office work. It can include tall office buildings and office parks.
• Industrial: Industrial real estate can cover a broad array of business activities. Manufacturing plants and warehouses are common types of industrial real estate.
• Hospitality: These properties offer temporary accommodations to travelers and other people. Hotels are the most common type of property in this category.
• Multifamily: Multifamily includes properties divided into separate living spaces to create multiple residences. Apartment buildings and complexes are common types of multifamily properties.
• Special Purpose: This category includes properties with a design that suits a singular or unique purpose. Special-purpose properties include golf courses, graveyards, amusement parks, hospitals, and railway stations.
• Mixed Use: Mixed-use properties are for two or more types of commercial activity. For example, you might have a multifamily building with retail on the ground floor. It could also be an office park that includes warehouse space.

What Makes Retail Different?

As you can see, many types of commercial properties are beyond retail. Let’s explore some factors that make retail properties different.

• Purpose: These properties are for the sale of consumer goods. They also have the zoning for this type of commercial activity.
• Accessibility: Retail space is accessible to the broader public. The businesses need customers to be able to come and go freely. They may also have parking lots, walkways, and ADA-compliant features to make the property more accessible.
• Visibility: You want retail property to be highly visible in places with foot or road traffic. You also want signs to catch the eyes of potential customers.
• Visual Appeal: Retail properties must also feel inviting and attractive. That means they may also have various aesthetic features in their design.

Commercial Real Estate in Columbus, GA

Do you need commercial real estate services in the Columbus, GA, area? Click here to contact the Cummings Commercial Team. Whether it is retail or any other commercial property, we can help. Reach out now to learn more about our services.

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