Right Agent for Commercial Real Estate

As the economy continues to take a downward turn it is inevitable that real estate prices and the number of transactions continue to fall as well.  There have been a few "residential" agents trying their hand in commercial transactions as a means to make ends meet.  Buying and selling commercial and investment properties is a risky business where not getting all the facts or misinterpreting data can be devastating.  If a business is relocated to a market area where the business struggles or a construction project closes the road for months, the success of that business will be in serious jeopardy.  Not knowing the true value of an investment property will also likely mean loss of revenue for the seller or buyer, depending on which way the error was weighted.  If you are contemplating buying or selling investment property, be certain that you agent has successfully completed coursework and achieved a designation such as the prestigious Certified Commercial Investment Member (CCIM) offered by the CCIM Institute of the National Association of Realtor(r)s.  Agents that have earned the CCIM designation have completed a minimum of 160 hours of classroom work, passed competency tests along the way and provided a portfolio of qualified transactions prior to being allowed to sit for the comprehensive exam.  The course work is strenuous and challenging, while the portfolio requires persistence, organization, and result. The result is that a CCIM knows how to conduct commercial and investment transactions and protect his client through the process.