What is a Commercial Property Valuation?
A commercial property valuation is undertaken by a valuation surveyor and is intended to provide an impartial evaluation of the market value of a commercial building. A commercial property valuation is typically undertaken by a registered/chartered valuation surveyor as they have the experience and knowhow to complete these to a high standard, by assessing comparable/similar properties and using their market knowledge.
A commercial property valuation can be undertaken on a variety of different commercial properties including office, industrial premises, retail units, surgeries, restaurants etc. There are numerous reasons why a commercial property valuation may be required, including:
Building Acquisitions or Disposals: Whether a commercial property is being sold or purchased it is necessary to undertake a commercial property valuation. This will ensure that the sale value of the building accurately reflects the market conditions and will enable the prospective purchaser to understand what they will likely secure for the premises. A commercial property valuation undertaken on behalf of a prospective purchaser will also provide comfort that they are not paying over the odds for the building.
Business Appraisals: A commercial property valuation may also be undertaken in relation to a business appraisal. This type of commercial property valuation often utilises the profits method of valuation as the commercial property will often be being used for a specific purchase which relates to the business function. The valuation makes an assessment based upon three years of the business’s financial accounts in order to calculate the likely trading prospects. This commercial property valuation is usually undertaken when valuing restaurants, cinemas, care facilities, hotels etc.
Charities Act Valuations: An independent commercial property valuation by a RICS accredited surveyor is required in order to advise a Charity on the best next steps when a trustee is disposing of a commercial building. The commercial property valuation will need to include reference to any repairs required before sale of the property and also advice on whether the approach will provide the best market value. This type of commercial property valuation will need to be undertaken by an experienced valuation surveyor owing to these extra requirements.
SIPPS and SSAS: A commercial property valuation is required in order to assess the viability of an investment of funds into a commercial building where this is being made under a pension scheme. The property will be in the ownership of the pension scheme or third party who leases it. Any rent will be paid back into the pension fund. A valuation surveyor will undertake the commercial property valuation to determine whether the proposed investment is viable.