Building multi-unit commercial warehouse/offices

[August Hansen]

I have a .75 acre lot i am interested in purchasing which the front .25 acre was just taken via eminent domain due to the widening of a two lane highway to 4 lanes, whIch Is a good thIng since the lot wIll remaIn as hIghway frontage. My goal is to purchase the lot and build multi-unit commercial warehouse/offices each with a bathroom. I’m thinking of a prefab metal building and rent the units out. I can get a kIller deal on the lot and was thinking a metal buildIng wouldn’t be too terrIbly expensive. Does anyone have any experience in this realm? I am a residential builder and commercial is not my strong suit, although some of it does translate. Thanks in advance! :)

[Jeff Verreault]

Originally posted by @August Hansen:

I have a .75 acre lot i am interested in purchasing which the front .25 acre was just taken via eminent domain due to the widening of a two lane highway to 4 lanes, whIch Is a good thIng since the lot wIll remaIn as hIghway frontage. My goal is to purchase the lot and build multi-unit commercial warehouse/offices each with a bathroom. I’m thinking of a prefab metal building and rent the units out. I can get a kIller deal on the lot and was thinking a metal buildIng wouldn’t be too terrIbly expensive. Does anyone have any experience in this realm? I am a residential builder and commercial is not my strong suit, although some of it does translate. Thanks in advance! :)

August, I realize that your post was from a couple of years ago. I’m located up in Maine and looking to do the same type of project Commercial condominiums. I have a couple lots in mind that in the urban areas and highway. Seems like a great investment up here as there is a demand for small warehouse space. If I don’t sell them individually. I can always rent. Looking into prefab metal building versus wood construction. Metal building will likely be more to build but with lumber prices the way they are right now it’s probably fairly comparable. Just wondering how you made out with your pursuit. 
Jeff Verreault