• The real estate property market usually lags behind general economic trends.
• As a result, prices can be relatively high even when the economy is facing a downturn. As a buyer, it is important for you to be well-informed about property market trends.

Choosing a suitable type of property will depend on your specific business needs. When deciding on a property, you may want to consider the following:

• Type Of Business Activity
  This affects the choice of property suitable for your business activities. Industrial properties mostly include manufacturing spaces while commercial properties include office and retail spaces.
• Location
  This depends on your need for proximity to your customers, suppliers, central business district, and so on.
• Relevant Codes And Regulations
  This may affect building plans.
• Budget
  This determines the property that you can afford.
• Buy or Rent
  This depends on the way you want to structure your asset portfolio, your budget and most importantly, your business plan and strategy.
• Terms and conditions relating to purchase/rent

MORE SPONSORED RESOURCES

3. Get Professional Advice

• The easiest way to find out more about a property is to enlist the help of an agent, consultant or developer.
• They can provide information on available properties in the market, advise you on market prices as well as assist you in the procedures for obtaining a property.

• Before taking any action, you need to carry out due diligence as the real estate market operates under the principle of caveat emptor (i.e. buyers beware)!
• Some of the things to look out for include:
  • ensure the seller's title is complete and free of mortgages, easements, and so on
  • inspect the land for pollution
  • check Government development plans for possible redevelopment, road widening, etc.

• A lawyer will be able to assist you in conveyancing matters such as drawing up the proper terms and conditions, and ensuring proper deed transfer.
• You may also have to register your deed with the Strata Title Board.

• If you are buying a property, you will need to pay in full upon closing the deal.  You have a few financing options:
  • take up a mortgage
  • approach property agents and developers for assistance
  • depending on the nature of your business, you may qualify for Government assistance
• If you are taking a loan for your property purchase, the maximum loan amount for property purchase is 80% of the property's purchase price or its valuation, whichever is lower.
• The loan period can be up to 20 years if the remaining lease is 30 years or more. 
• Sometimes, a combination of term loan and overdraft facilities is offered to suit the company's needs.
• Alternatively, consider renting your business premises - this requires considerably lower capital investment