BusinessesForSale.com is the world's leading marketplace for commercial property that is either business-related (e.g., a hotel building or a restaurant premise) or a pure investment asset.
Utilising Our Platform: A Buyer's Guide
Refine Your Search by Use Class: Commercial properties are governed by specific Use Classes (e.g., A1 Retail, B2 General Industrial, C1 Hotels). Use our advanced filters to target properties with the correct planning permission for your intended operation, saving you significant time and planning application costs.
Filter for Investment vs. Owner-Occupier: While some listings are for premises only, many are sold alongside an existing business. If you are a pure investor, use filters to search for properties with long-term tenants and verifiable Net Operating Income (NOI) to assess the asset's Capitalisation Rate (Cap Rate).
Understand Lease Structures: Most commercial listings operate under Full Repairing and Insuring (FRI) leases. Listings often include key lease terms. Scrutinize these details before contacting the broker to ensure the obligations align with your financial strategy.
Connect with Specialists: Commercial property finance and law are distinct from residential. Our listings are primarily handled by specialist commercial property brokers who can provide vital insights on local market performance, rental demand, and necessary legal transfers.
Exclusive Resources for Buyers
Confidentiality: Most income-producing assets require a signed Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) before detailed financial information is released. Utilise our secure messaging system to ensure your inquiries remain confidential.
Property Finance: We partner with commercial finance specialists who understand the unique capital requirements (25-40% deposits) and debt structures required for commercial purchases.
BusinessesForSale.com is your definitive resource, providing the largest selection of commercial property listings with the tools and information to guide you confidently through the buying process.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Commercial Property Buyers
Q: What are the main types of commercial property available for sale?
A: The primary sectors are Office space, Retail (shops, food outlets), and Industrial (warehouses, distribution/logistics units). Other types include Leisure (hotels, gyms) and Health/Care facilities.
Q: How much deposit is required to buy commercial property in the United Kingdom?
A: A commercial mortgage typically requires a larger down payment than a residential mortgage, often between 25% and 40% of the property’s value, depending on the asset type and borrower profile.
Q: What is a Cap Rate and why is it important?
A: The Capitalisation Rate (Cap Rate) is a measure of the profitability of an investment property. It represents the annual rate of return expected on the purchase and is calculated by dividing the property’s Net Operating Income (NOI) by its purchase price.
Q: Do I need to pay VAT when buying a commercial property?
A: Commercial property sales are typically exempt from VAT. However, the seller can "Opt to Tax" the property, in which case VAT is applied at the standard rate (currently 20%). This must be determined during due diligence.
Q: What does a 'Full Repairing and Insuring (FRI)' lease mean?
A: An FRI lease means the tenant (the business occupying the property) is responsible for all structural and non-structural repairs, maintenance, and insurance costs related to the building, significantly reducing the financial burden on the landlord/owner.