This chapter has touched on only the basic details about investing in commercial properties. As you become more involved in real estate, you'll encounter many types of properties and an endless number of ideas for potential investments. No matter which ones you choose to pursue, do your homework and always get expert advice before moving forward with an offer.

Here are a few of the people you might contact for advice about commercial properties:

• Commercial real-estate agents can help you find comparable properties in order to determine value and can keep you informed of new listings on the market.

• Staff at your local planning board and other similar agencies are important contacts for information about land development, zoning, and many other issues.

• Staff at your county courthouse can show you how to view tax maps of land and find public information regarding the current owner's mailing address.

• Surveyors and appraisers provide services that can be critical to your success. Get to know the professionals in your area so that when you have a question, you can get it answered.

• Attorneys who specialize in real-estate transactions can help you draft an offer to purchase commercial properties and follow up with lease agreements for your tenants.

• A tax professional can offer important advice to help you structure you investments.

Commercial properties can be lucrative, but they are riskier and require more funds than investing in a single-family home you intend to rent or resell. You can be successful if you research the market, know the laws associated with the type of property you are interested in pursuing, and move carefully to acquire it.