Differences between residential and commercial retail/office

[Bryan N.]

So, I've been a landlord for a few years now.  I think I want to venture into commercial real estate for retail or office locations.   What are the big differences between residential and commercial?

For example:

I self manage

Wrote my own lease

I advertise, show and lease sign

I don't need an agent or PM

I've been doing some reading on commercial properties but I don't seem to find a lot of info on being self sufficient in the areas above.  That information is readily available for residential Landlording.  

Any help with the info above?

When it comes to analyzing a deal I believe it's basically the same as a residential but maybe some other variables?

[Ash Patel]

Stop letting people scare you out of investing in CRE!!! Click on @Joel Owens profile and literally read every one of his posts for the last two years.  It will take you a long time but it will be better education than any book!  Rarely do people start out in CRE by buying a CVS or Starbucks.  Buy a mixed use building, or a stand alone retail building and learn the intricacies of CRE.  Dealing with commercial tenants is a million times better than dealing with residential tenants.  There are differences in insurance, lending, zoning, etc, but none of those should be a barrier to entry.

I'm sorry but most commercial deals do not take 1-2 years to close as someone mentioned. Find a local CRE investor mentor and learn from them. I do all of my own management as well. Get out of the residential rat race and learn CRE investing!