Feedback on Profitability on a Commercial Development in West Africa
Member since 2023 · 10 posts · 2 votes
Hi Bigger Pockets Community!
I’ve newly joined our family business in developing commercial buildings and would appreciate your advice if the following potential project is considered as a strong long-term hold.
Project Summary:
- 40-year ground lease
- Initial investment: $USD 930,000 (which includes the 10 years of prepaid land rent and all other costs such as permits, contracts, engineering, geotechnical studies, etc.)
Revenue & Occupancy:
- Annual rental revenue (Year 1): the equivalent of $USD145,000 (at 100% occupancy)
- 7% shop rent increase every 5 years
Operating Expenses:
- Recurrent yearly expenses total USD$20,000, covering: Security, maintenance, generator upkeep, insurance, taxes, repairs, and contingencies
- Land rent restarts in Year 11 with a 10% increase every 10 years
Financing:
- With loan (USD$550,000 at 7%, over 6 years)
→ Break-even in Year 12
After breakeven, the project produces pure cash flow for 28–32 years.
Would you consider this a strong long-term hold?
Would you use debt here or propose a different financing strategy?
Appreciate any advice, feedback, or red flags I might have missed.
Thanks a lot!