When it comes to investing in or leasing commercial real estate, understanding the different types of properties available is the first and most important step. Commercial real estate (often called “CRE”) isn’t a one-size-fits-all category; it includes everything from office buildings and retail centers to industrial facilities and multifamily complexes. Each property type comes with its own advantages, challenges, and ideal uses.
At Daniels Greer Commercial Real Estate, we’ve helped business owners, investors, and developers across Tulsa, Oklahoma, find the right property for their goals. Whether you’re expanding your business, diversifying your portfolio, or seeking long-term rental income, knowing the distinctions between commercial property types can make all the difference in your success.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the main categories of commercial properties and their key features.
1. Office Buildings
Office buildings are one of the most familiar types of commercial properties. They serve as the home base for countless businesses, from law firms and tech startups to healthcare providers and corporate headquarters.
Types of Office Buildings
Office spaces are typically divided into three classes:
- Class A: High-end buildings with top-tier finishes, prime locations (like downtown Tulsa), modern amenities, and professional management. These buildings attract prestigious tenants and command premium lease rates.
- Class B: Functional, well-maintained offices that might be a bit older or in less central locations. Many Class B properties offer excellent value and can be upgraded to Class A standards.
- Class C: Older buildings in need of renovation or located in less desirable areas. These are often the most affordable options and can be great for investors seeking value-add opportunities.
2. Retail Properties
Retail properties are designed for businesses that sell goods or services directly to consumers. This category ranges from small strip centers to massive shopping malls.
Common Types of Retail Properties
- Strip Malls and Neighborhood Centers: Smaller retail centers anchored by everyday businesses like grocery stores, salons, and local restaurants.
- Community and Power Centers: Larger developments featuring big-box retailers, national brands, and entertainment options.
- Standalone Buildings (Freestanding Retail): Single-tenant properties like fast-food restaurants, convenience stores, or pharmacies.
- Regional Malls: Large indoor shopping centers with multiple anchor stores and a mix of retail, dining, and entertainment tenants.
3. Industrial Properties
Industrial real estate includes properties used for manufacturing, warehousing, logistics, and distribution. This sector has seen explosive growth in recent years, thanks to e-commerce and supply chain expansion.
Types of Industrial Properties
- Warehouses and Distribution Centers: Used for storage and shipping. These properties often feature high ceilings, loading docks, and easy highway access.
- Manufacturing Facilities: Designed for heavy industrial use with specialized equipment and zoning requirements.
- Flex Spaces: Hybrid properties that combine office and light industrial or warehouse space. These are popular among startups and small businesses needing versatility.
4. Multifamily Properties
Although multifamily housing might seem residential, it’s considered commercial when it involves five or more units. This category includes apartment complexes, duplexes, townhomes, and mixed-use buildings.
Types of Multifamily Properties
- Low-Rise Apartments: Typically three stories or fewer, often found in suburban neighborhoods.
- Mid-Rise and High-Rise Apartments: Found in urban centers like downtown Tulsa, these buildings attract young professionals and offer amenities like fitness centers and rooftop lounges.
- Mixed-Use Developments: Combine residential units with retail or office space, creating vibrant, walkable communities.
5. Hospitality Properties
Hospitality real estate includes hotels, motels, resorts, and extended-stay lodgings. These properties are highly sensitive to tourism trends, local events, and economic conditions.
Types of Hospitality Properties
- Full-Service Hotels: Offer amenities like restaurants, meeting rooms, and concierge services.
- Limited-Service Hotels: More affordable accommodations without extensive amenities.
- Extended-Stay Hotels: Cater to guests needing longer stays with features like kitchenettes and laundry facilities.
6. Special-Purpose Properties
Not all commercial real estate fits neatly into a box. Special-purpose properties are designed for a specific use and can be more challenging to repurpose. Examples include:
- Churches and religious facilities
- Theaters and entertainment venues
- Gas stations and car washes
- Medical centers and hospitals
- Schools or daycare centers
Because these properties are tailored to specific uses, they require careful market analysis before buying or leasing. At Daniels Greer Commercial Real Estate, we help clients assess local demand and future adaptability before investing in specialized properties.
7. Land and Development Opportunities
Commercial land can be one of the most flexible investments. Raw or developed land can be used for new construction, redevelopment, or long-term holding for appreciation.
Types of Commercial Land
- Infill Lots: Vacant land in developed areas, ideal for retail or office construction.
- Outparcels: Small plots near shopping centers, often leased to restaurants or banks.
- Agricultural or Undeveloped Land: Can be rezoned for industrial, retail, or mixed-use development.
Choosing the Right Type of Commercial Property
Deciding which type of commercial property is right for you depends on several factors:
- Your Investment Goals: Are you seeking steady rental income, long-term appreciation, or value-add opportunities?
- Risk Tolerance: Some property types, like retail or hospitality, can fluctuate with the economy, while others, like industrial or multifamily, tend to be more stable.
- Location: Proximity to highways, business districts, and population centers is key for both tenants and customers.
- Market Trends: Working with a local commercial real estate expert helps you understand current demand and forecasted growth in your area.
Work With a Local Expert in Tulsa Commercial Real Estate
At Daniels Greer Commercial Real Estate, we specialize in helping clients navigate the full spectrum of commercial property types throughout Tulsa and Northeast Oklahoma. From office spaces in Midtown to industrial properties along I-44, we understand what drives value in this region’s diverse real estate market.
Our team offers decades of combined experience in:
- Commercial sales and leasing
- Investment property analysis
- Tenant and landlord representation
- Site selection and development consulting
We believe every property has potential; our job is to help you unlock it.
Final Thoughts
Commercial real estate offers a world of opportunities for business owners and investors alike. By understanding the different types of commercial properties, and how they perform in today’s Tulsa market, you can make confident, informed decisions that align with your goals.
Whether you’re exploring your first investment or expanding an existing portfolio, Daniels Greer Commercial Real Estate is here to guide you every step of the way.
Ready to explore commercial properties in Tulsa, Oklahoma?
Call us today at (918) 740-1015 or visit our website to learn more about our current listings and professional real estate services.