Disclosures for apartment buildings and other commercial properties usually include details that help a buyer evaluate the structure and the property's support systems. Disclosures are also required for vacant commercial land in some states. Information about zoning, disability issues, garbage pickup, environmental hazards, encroachments and numerous other topics might be included in a commercial property disclosure.

It's critical to understand all local, state, and federal laws before you purchase commercial or industrial properties. There are many pitfalls for the novice investor, so commercial transactions aren't usually the best place for a beginner to start investing in real estate. Gaining experience in dealing with residential properties is a less risky way of beginning your real-estate investment career.

If you feel commercial real estate is the only way to go, find a mentor to whom you can turn for advice about disclosures and inspections. Use an experienced commercial real-estate agent for your transactions. Employ a real-estate attorney who can lead you through the process. Study governmental Web sites to learn about laws that control the type of property you are buying. Read as many books as you can about commercial purchases. When you're ready to proceed, do it with caution.