Commercial real estate developers: What they are and the services they provide

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Page written by Ashlyn Brooks. Last reviewed on October 2, 2024. Next review due October 1, 2026.

Commercial real estate developers are key players in shaping business landscapes, from office complexes and shopping malls to industrial parks and mixed-use developments. These professionals manage the entire development process, ensuring that commercial projects align with market demands and are completed on time and within budget.

Here at Swoop, our goal is to empower our clients with insights and options. For this article we’ll unpack the details of what commercial real estate developers do, the services they provide, and whether hiring one is the right choice for your business.

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What are commercial real estate developers?

Commercial real estate developers are professionals or companies that oversee the acquisition, development, and construction of commercial properties.

Their role begins with identifying land or redevelopment opportunities and extends through the entire project lifecycle, from planning and financing to construction and leasing. Developers work closely with a team of architects, contractors, engineers, investors, and local government agencies to ensure that projects are executed efficiently and meet legal requirements.

In addition to new builds, developers may also focus on revitalizing older properties, turning underutilized areas into thriving commercial hubs. The goal of a commercial real estate developer is not just to construct buildings but to create valuable, functional spaces that attract businesses and generate revenue.

What types of services do commercial real estate developers provide?

Commercial real estate developers provide a wide range of services, including the main six we’ve listed below:

Site Selection and Land Acquisition: Developers identify and purchase suitable land or properties for commercial projects, assessing the potential for zoning, market demand, and profitability.
Project Planning and Feasibility Studies: They conduct thorough market research and feasibility studies to ensure that a project is viable and has the potential for financial success. This includes analyzing factors such as demographics, market conditions, and potential competition.
Financing: Developers secure financing for projects through a mix of loans, investor funding, and joint ventures. They often take on significant financial risk to bring projects to completion.
Design and Construction Management: Working closely with architects, engineers, and contractors, developers oversee the design and construction phases, ensuring the project adheres to timelines, budgets, and quality standards.
Leasing and Marketing: Once the project is completed, developers often handle the leasing or sale of the commercial space, working with brokers or managing the marketing efforts to attract tenants or buyers.
Regulatory and Legal Compliance: Developers ensure the project complies with local building codes, zoning laws, and environmental regulations, navigating complex permitting processes to avoid delays.

Should I hire a commercial real estate developer?

Hiring a commercial real estate developer can be a smart move for businesses or investors taking on large, complex projects. Developers bring valuable industry knowledge and experience, helping to navigate the intricate development process while avoiding costly mistakes. Their expertise ensures that projects meet legal and market requirements, providing peace of mind throughout the development.

In addition to their expertise, developers save time by managing day-to-day operations, such as securing permits and overseeing construction, allowing you to focus on other business priorities. They also mitigate financial and legal risks by keeping the project within budget and compliant with regulations. Ultimately, developers aim to maximize the return on investment by leveraging their understanding of market conditions and trends, resulting in higher property value and profitability.

Where to find a commercial real estate developer

Deciding to hire a developer is one thing, but identifying the right one is an entirely different task. You want a developer who is experienced, with a strong track record and solid industry connections. Having the right developer is crucial to ensuring your project runs smoothly, stays on budget, and meets all of your goals.

Here’s a starting point for your search:

Industry Associations: Professional organizations like the National Association of Industrial and Office Properties (NAIOP) or the Urban Land Institute (ULI) can connect you with experienced developers.
Online Platforms: Websites like Clutch.co offer lists of top commercial real estate developers with client reviews and ratings, helping you find a developer that fits your needs.
Referrals: Networking with other business owners, investors, or brokers can lead to recommendations for reputable developers who have successfully completed similar projects.
Local Real Estate Firms: Many local real estate firms specialize in commercial development and have a strong understanding of regional market conditions and regulations.

What’s the difference between a commercial real estate developer and a broker?

Commercial real estate developers oversee the entire process of creating new properties, from land acquisition to construction and leasing, taking on financial risk throughout. In contrast, commercial real estate brokers facilitate transactions for existing properties, acting as intermediaries between buyers, sellers, or tenants without assuming financial risk. While developers focus on project execution, brokers are primarily focused on closing sales or lease agreements.

How Swoop can help

Swoop is here to support your commercial real estate journey, whether you’re developing a new project or seeking financing. We understand that navigating the complexities of commercial real estate development can be challenging, especially when it comes to securing funding.

With Swoop, you can:

Check available business loans: Find the right financing solution for your commercial real estate development quickly and easily through our platform.
Compare funding options: Swoop helps you compare different funding options based on your specific needs, including loans tailored to commercial real estate.
Access expert advice: Our team provides personalized guidance to help you make informed decisions about your financing strategy.

To explore your funding options and get started on your commercial real estate project, register today and check available business loans.

Written by

Ashlyn Brooks

Ashlyn is a personal finance writer with experience in business and consumer taxes, retirement, and financial services to name a few. She has been published in USA Today, Kiplinger and Investopedia.

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