Commercial Buyer Blueprint

The Commercial Buyer Blueprint is your step-by-step guide to navigating Alberta’s commercial real estate market with clarity, confidence, and proven strategy. Whether you’re an investor, business owner, or first-time commercial buyer, this blueprint breaks down how to analyze properties, evaluate financials, review leases, assess risk, and structure a successful offer.

Alberta’s commercial market is fast-moving, data-driven, and opportunity-rich—spanning industrial bays, retail plazas, medical offices, automotive bays, mixed-use buildings, and standalone investment properties. Understanding how to interpret tenant quality, NOI, DSCR, cap rates, zoning, and market fundamentals allows buyers to identify strong assets while avoiding costly risks. This blueprint is built to simplify the process and give you a professional-grade system used by serious commercial investors.

Ready to take the next step? (587)-719-5523 / Get in touch or visit MohitDhillon.com with us today to discuss your commercial real estate goals or schedule a personalized property tour.

Your Roadmap

A Clear System for Smart Commercial Purchasing

Buying commercial real estate requires financial readiness, market awareness, lease analysis, and a structured evaluation process. The strongest buyers follow a blueprint—identifying goals, verifying cash flow, understanding risk, reviewing zoning, assessing building quality, and determining long-term ROI. With the right framework, buyers can move quickly and confidently in a competitive Alberta market.

KEY POINTS

• Define goals & budget
• Analyze NOI & cap rates
• Understand lease structures
• Review zoning & building quality
• Evaluate long-term ROI

Goal Setting

Clarify whether you’re buying for investment, owner-use, long-term appreciation, or cash flow. Your goals determine the asset type and financing structure.

Financial Prep

Get pre-qualified, understand DSCR rules, estimate down payment requirements, and review operating statements to determine affordability.

Property Screening

Evaluate tenant mix, lease terms, building condition, location quality, zoning, and market comparables before booking showings.


Risk Review

Assess vacancy risk, tenant strength, environmental factors, CAM charges, deferred maintenance, and competitive properties in the area.

Quick Investor Snapshot

Let us help you through the process!

• Cash flow drives value
• Zoning determines feasibility
• Lease = most important document
• NOI must support DSCR
• Expect 25–35% down payment
• Strong tenants = lower risk
• Review CAM charges carefully
• Environmental checks for industrial

Deep Advisory: What Investors Must Know

Buying commercial property is a financial decision first and a real estate decision second.

Define Your Buyer Profile: Identify your purpose: owner-user, long-term investor, value-add buyer, or development-focused. Each requires different financing and property types.

Financial Strength & DSCR: Commercial loans depend on the property’s income. Lenders require a Debt Service Coverage Ratio of 1.20–1.35. Strong NOI = stronger financing.

Analyze Leases: The lease is the investment. Review rental rates, escalations, renewal options, tenant covenants, exclusivity, personal guarantees, and CAM structures.

Understand NOI & Cap Rates: Net Operating Income determines property value and loan approval. Compare cap rates to similar properties in Calgary, Edmonton, Airdrie, Chestermere, and surrounding markets.

Zoning & Use: Confirm zoning supports your intended use. Alberta municipalities vary widely in how they regulate industrial, retail, automotive, medical, and mixed-use operations.

Building Quality & Hidden Costs: Inspect roof condition, HVAC age, parkade or asphalt issues, plumbing/electrical systems, and environmental risks (Phase I ESA for industrial).

Offer Strategy: Commercial deals often involve negotiations on price, conditions, inspection periods, estoppel certificates, lease review, and financing timelines. Strong organization = faster acceptance.

With the right blueprint, buyers avoid pitfalls and identify assets that deliver strong long-term performance.

Commercial Buyer Blueprint

How to Buy Commercial Blueprint for Calgary, Alberta

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  • 125 Main Street N in Airdrie: Downtown Retail for sale : MLS®# A2172159

    125 Main Street N Downtown Airdrie T4B 0R8
    Main Photo: 125 Main Street N in Airdrie: Downtown Retail for sale : MLS®# A2172159
    $10,880,000
    Commercial
    Status:
    Active
    MLS® Num:
    A2172159
    Build. Type:
    Commercial Mix
    This is an excellent opportunity for a savvy investor to acquire the Airdrie Town Centre: a prime investment opportunity within the ‘Downtown Revitalization Plan Area’ making it a very desirable property to own in the short and long term. This property is located on Main Street with great curb appeal, drive by visibility, on site parking (59 stalls) and a brand-new elevator (2023) servicing the second floor. This building is 100% occupied with only one vacancy of 900 sq. ft. which the owner is actively marketing for lease. The property is tenanted by quality tenants with 74% of the building leased until March of 2033. Current Net Rental income is $622,750 + amortization recovery of $57,800 which equals Total Net Revenue of $680,600 for 2025. Over the next ten years the total net revenue is projected to average $737,900 per annum. Click the link below to download the brochure! More details
    Listed by Manchester Properties Inc.
    Mohit Dhilon
  • 104 1 Avenue NE in Airdrie: Old Town Retail for sale : MLS®# A2253192

    104 1 Avenue NE Old Town Airdrie T4B 0R6
    Main Photo: 104 1 Avenue NE in Airdrie: Old Town Retail for sale : MLS®# A2253192
    $1,899,999
    Commercial
    Status:
    Active
    MLS® Num:
    A2253192
    AN OPPORTUNITY TO OWN A HIGH EXPOSURE STANDALONE BUILDING IN AIRDRIE DOWNTOWN! Welcome to an incredible commercial opportunity, THIS STANDALONE, 3,663 SQ. FT. BUILDING OFFERS AN EXCEPTIONAL BLANK CANVAS FOR YOUR BUSINESS VISION. With a prime location at the corner of 1st Avenue and Main Street, your business will benefit from maximum visibility and foot traffic in one of the city's most vibrant areas. The building's VERSATILE LAYOUT AND M3 ZONING allow for a wide range of uses, including a restaurant, medical clinic, daycare, or professional office. The main floor provides a spacious, open area ready for your custom build-out, while the EQUALLY LARGE 3,400 SQ. FT. BASEMENT OFFERS A TON OF EXTRA STORAGE OR OPERATIONAL SPACE. THE BASEMENT ALSO HAS ITS OWN SEPARATE ENTRANCE, providing even more flexibility. This property is a rare find, featuring ample private on-site parking for both your clients and staff. The combination of a top-tier location, generous space, and flexible zoning makes this the perfect spot to establish or expand your business. Don't miss your chance to secure a landmark location in vibrating downtown Airdrie. More details
    Listed by REMAX Innovations
    Mohit Dhilon
  • 800 Veterans Boulevard NW in Airdrie: Silver Creek Retail for sale : MLS®# A2269553

    800 Veterans Boulevard NW Silver Creek Airdrie T4A 2G1
    Main Photo: 800 Veterans Boulevard NW in Airdrie: Silver Creek Retail for sale : MLS®# A2269553
    $9,595,000
    Commercial
    Status:
    Active
    MLS® Num:
    A2269553
    Build. Type:
    Commercial Mix
    $200k price drop!!! A prime 19,985 square foot retail complex, strategically located on Veterans Blvd in Northwest Airdrie. Established in 2004, the shopping centre spans a 1.90-acre site. It boasts a 100% occupancy rate, with a diverse mix of local businesses as tenants. Investment Highlights: Robust Market Demographics: Airdrie's trading area encompasses a population of 277,441 and is recognized as one of Canada's fastest-growing cities. Favorable Tax Environment: Airdrie offers one of the lowest municipal tax rates in Alberta, with no business, machinery, or equipment taxes. Competitive Property Costs: The city benefits from low property assessment values, enhancing investment attractiveness. With a strong operating history, stable income, and a growing revenue profile, This Shopping Centre presents an exceptional opportunity to acquire a premier neighborhood shopping center at a competitive price per square foot and favorable investment. More details
    Listed by Royal LePage METRO and PREP Realty
    Mohit Dhilon
  • 1140 28 Kingsview Road SE in Airdrie: Kings Heights Retail for sale : MLS®# A2274591

    1140 28 Kingsview Road SE Kings Heights Airdrie T4A 3L7
    Main Photo: 1140 28 Kingsview Road SE in Airdrie: Kings Heights Retail for sale : MLS®# A2274591
    $785,000
    Commercial
    Status:
    Active
    MLS® Num:
    A2274591
    Prime opportunity to own a modern retail condominium bay in Airdrie’s thriving Kingsview Retail District. Located just off QEII Highway and surrounded by national retailers and high-traffic businesses, this unit offers exceptional visibility, accessibility and long-term investment appeal. Steps from Save-On-Foods, Shoppers Drug Mart, Dollarama, Starbucks, restaurants, medical clinics and service-based businesses. Close proximity to the Fortis Alberta building, providing consistent daytime population and business activity. The property offers a registered condo size of approximately 1,450 sq.ft. with a usable area of roughly 1,387 sq.ft., providing an efficient and versatile layout for a variety of commercial uses. The bay features modern construction with an attractive storefront façade that enhances visibility and curb appeal. The development is well maintained and offers ample surface parking, ensuring convenient access for both customers and staff. This is an exceptional turnkey investment opportunity, as the unit is currently leased to a tenant operating a franchised pizza store, providing stable rental income and a professionally run business on site. The list price includes the retail bay only and does not include the business assets. However, if a buyer wishes to purchase both the bay and the business, the seller is open to considering a combined sale, with the business value added to the listing price. This property is ideal for investors seeking reliable commercial income, as well as potential future owner-operators. More details
    Listed by VIVO Realty
    Mohit Dhilon
  • 500 900 6 Avenue SW in Calgary: A-012 Office for sale : MLS®# A1122334

    500 900 6 Avenue SW A-012 Calgary T2P 3K2
    Main Photo: 500 900 6 Avenue SW in Calgary: A-012 Office for sale : MLS®# A1122334
    $929,000
    Commercial
    Status:
    Active
    MLS® Num:
    A1122334
    Build. Type:
    Office Building
    Total 5th Floor In Edinburgh Place – Great Possibilities! – Location is So Important to Business and Its People. So advantageous, it’s situated on the corner of 8th St & 6 Ave SW in the DT ‘s preferable west-end. Forget about cars & parking, the C-Train is a mere block away. The 5th floor encompasses approx. 5,600sqft. Served by two elevators, access is easy. The current layout incl. 14 offices, 2 meeting rooms [one with kitchenette], staff room with kitchen & storage. Having 2 entrances/reception areas supports division of operations if desired. Ample windows provide natural light & views. Two washrooms. Numerous eateries in area. Enjoy Century Gardens Pk. Steps to the Level 15 network & shopping. Stroll the Bow River pathway. Hop across the river to delightful Kensington. As the city moves forward, opportunity is knocking for this low priced, big sqft full floor condo. More details
    Listed by CIR Realty
    Mohit Dhilon
  • 55 Belvedere Boulevard SE in Calgary: Belvedere Retail for sale : MLS®# A2022644

    55 Belvedere Boulevard SE Belvedere Calgary T2A 8A5
    Main Photo: 55 Belvedere Boulevard SE in Calgary: Belvedere Retail for sale : MLS®# A2022644
    $624,805
    Commercial
    Status:
    Active
    MLS® Num:
    A2022644
    Build. Type:
    Retail
    Belvedere Market, Calgary’s newest retail condo development—an exceptional opportunity for businesses seeking a prime, high-visibility location. Offering units from 899 to 15,455 sq ft, this C-C2–zoned project sits on 17 Avenue SE, just steps from Stoney Trail and adjacent to East Hills Shopping Centre. Permitted uses include dental and medical services, food services, grocery, general retail, professional services, and more. Six modern buildings feature large windows, abundant natural light, and contemporary design. West-facing restaurant units offer patios, overhead doors, and mountain views, ideal for pubs, food halls, and larger dining concepts. Investors may also purchase entire buildings. The site benefits from strong traffic, excellent access, and major shadow anchors including Walmart, Costco, Staples, SportChek, Marshalls, Bed Bath & Beyond, Cineplex, and more. Over 2,000+ homes are being built in Belvedere and the surrounding area by Minto, Crystal Creek Homes, Alliston at Home, DS Homes, and Belvedere Rise and the new Huxley Development by Genesis Development. Ample customer parking is provided throughout the development. Belvedere Market offers the rare option to purchase retail condominium units in a thriving growth corridor, ownership provides long-term cost control and equity building. Construction is underway with occupancy scheduled for Q1–Q2 2026. *** Exclusivity of uses is outlined in the condo documents. ***Available Units: Only Units 12, 14 (3,920 sq ft each), 16 (2,560 sq ft), 20 (3,073 sq ft), 22 (1,818 sq ft), and 26 (2,112 sq ft) remain—all other units are sold. | Units 12 & 14: Ideal for Medical & Pharmacy | Unit 16: Great for Hair Salon, Nail Salon, or Chiropractic | Units 20, 22 & 26: Designed for restaurants with west-facing patios. Starting Price is $695.00 PSF | Property Taxes: Estimated $8.50 PSF | Condo Fee (CAM): Estimated $5.93 PSF *** Don’t miss your opportunity to establish your business in this high-growth, amenity-rich community More details
    Listed by REMAX Innovations
    Mohit Dhilon
  • 1501 1 Street SE in Calgary: A-003 Retail for sale : MLS®# A2118801

    1501 1 Street SE A-003 Calgary T2G 2J4
    Main Photo: 1501 1 Street SE in Calgary: A-003 Retail for sale : MLS®# A2118801
    $2,500,000
    Commercial
    Status:
    Active
    MLS® Num:
    A2118801
    Build. Type:
    Free-Standing
    Great Opportunities! Future Mixed-Use Development Site on Corner Location with Interim holding Income. Corner Lot of Prime location, steps to stampede grounds, BMO centre, 17th avenue shops and restaurants, transit and casino. CC-MHX ZONING ALLOWS FOR 3 TIMES SITE COVERAGE WITH NO LIMITATION ON BUILDING HEIGHT. This freestanding retail building located on a corner lot (1st street South bound Macleod Trail) and 15th Ave SE in the heart of Victoria Park. The existing building is 2,132 SF WITH 7 parking stalls. There is potential to build high rise and low rise building if unified with neighbor's vacant lot. Pls. see the photos for 2 possible developments options. NEW UPDATES: This building has been fully renovated to professional SPA with many upgrades. 3 professional rooms added in the main floor with brand new gorgeous shower, new flooring, new furnace and new heat water tank. This brings nice business income. More details
    Listed by Century 21 Bamber Realty LTD.
    Mohit Dhilon
  • 119 738 3rd Avenue SW in Calgary: Eau Claire Mixed Use for sale : MLS®# A2136024

    119 738 3rd Avenue SW Eau Claire Calgary T2P 0G7
    Main Photo: 119 738 3rd Avenue SW in Calgary: Eau Claire Mixed Use for sale : MLS®# A2136024
    $1,000,000
    Commercial
    Status:
    Active
    MLS® Num:
    A2136024
    Build. Type:
    Commercial Mix
    Huge Price Reduction - Rare Opportunity - Retail condo for sale at the Prince's Crossing. Located in the popular Eau Claire district, steps to Calgary’s famous Peace Bridge on the Bow River, Calgary’s City Pathway system, one block to Prince’s Island Park, and an easy walk to trendy Kensington. Great location walking paths, shops, restaurants, and downtown entertainment venues. Unit is recently renovated and possibility to divide the unit into 2 units. Additional features include, underground heated one parking and 24 hour security. Please do not bother the business owner. More details
    Listed by Highline Real Estate Inc.
    Mohit Dhilon
  • 13 2219 35 Avenue NE in Calgary: A-611 Industrial for sale : MLS®# A2174996

    13 2219 35 Avenue NE A-611 Calgary T2E 6W3
    Main Photo: 13 2219 35 Avenue NE in Calgary: A-611 Industrial for sale : MLS®# A2174996
    $1,099,888
    Commercial
    Status:
    Active
    MLS® Num:
    A2174996
    Build. Type:
    Mixed Use
    Priced below market value! spacious Industrial warehouse, 32" wide x 128" deep, 10" wide and 14" high drive-in door, 24" clear height ceiling, Reception area plus 2 offices, 2 half bathrooms one operational and 2nd one used as a storage, plus 744'" mezzanine floor, Lots of parking around. huge green space on the front of the building. Ideal location close to Deer Foot Tail, Barlow Trail and Airport. Very good place for kitchen cabinet making, Martial arts, Food, Laundry services etc. Currently used by Calgary Limousine Company. PLEASE NOTE ANY KIND OF AUTO REPAIR BUSINESS WILL BE NOT ALLOWED BY THE CONDO BOARD. Call your favorite realtor now. More details
    Listed by RE/MAX Real Estate (Mountain View)
    Mohit Dhilon
  • 108 17 Avenue NW in Calgary: A-492 Retail for sale : MLS®# A2174959

    108 17 Avenue NW A-492 Calgary T2M 0M6
    Main Photo: 108 17 Avenue NW in Calgary: A-492 Retail for sale : MLS®# A2174959
    $1,990,000
    Commercial
    Status:
    Active
    MLS® Num:
    A2174959
    Build. Type:
    Retail
    With an exploding Calgary population and demographic that is growing exponentially, here is an opportunity to own a rare commercial retail property with land! Highly centralized and located near the busy 16 Ave NW traffic and Centre Street, this beautiful corner lot not only boasts its redevelopment potential, it is also part of the ongoing and complete makeover of the 16 Ave landscape. Additionally, it is inside the city transit LRT expansion projects as well as walking distance from the Bus Rapid Transit. Zoned for Commercial Corridor 2 (C-COR2 f3.0h20) with an approx. 9376 sq ft footprint. The building is a purpose built, fully fixtured restaurant that effectively maximizes the combined 3800 Sqft usable space. Comes with a total of 14+ parking spaces making this high in demand retail restaurant location that various franchises have inquired about. Whether you are looking for investment hold or owner-user, take advantage of this perfect opportunity in the current economic conditions and interest rates coming down. Owner is retiring and priced to sell. More details
    Listed by Century 21 Bravo Realty
    Mohit Dhilon
  • 2404 68 Avenue SE in Calgary: Ogden Retail for sale : MLS®# A2180135

    2404 68 Avenue SE Ogden Calgary T2C 0E4
    Main Photo: 2404 68 Avenue SE in Calgary: Ogden Retail for sale : MLS®# A2180135
    $3,690,000
    Commercial
    Status:
    Active
    MLS® Num:
    A2180135
    Build. Type:
    Free-Standing
    Inside Calgary. Only 10 minutes from Downtown in Calgary. Located at the busy traffic road. Gas station + convenience store + Carwash (Touchless + RV + Wand wash 3). A lot of potential. Very easy operation and short business time. More details
    Listed by CIR Realty
    Mohit Dhilon
  • 57 3131 27 Street NE in Calgary: A-635 Retail for sale : MLS®# A2183508

    57 3131 27 Street NE A-635 Calgary T1Y 6Z1
    Main Photo: 57 3131 27 Street NE in Calgary: A-635 Retail for sale : MLS®# A2183508
    $1,299,900
    Commercial
    Status:
    Active
    MLS® Num:
    A2183508
    Build. Type:
    Commercial Mix
    This versatile retail/commercial property is ideal for various business or medical uses. Previously a physiotherapy clinic, the space offers a functional layout suitable fo Medical Facilities (clinic, lab, optical center) Community Services (mini banquet hall, community center).Corporate Offices ,flexible leasing and purchase options, including rent-to-own Well-maintained infrastructure for health and professional services Excellent location with easy accessibility. Spacious interiors ready for customization.This is a perfect opportunity for businesses or organizations looking to establish their presence in a thriving area, possibly Subdividable for small businesses is being offered for sale /lease and rent to own. There are numerous options available to get the advantage of this sizeable facility such as a ladies' gym, and eye care clinic, community centre, banquet hall, The current Physiotherapy space is fully suitble with all the required necessities, and turn-key operation is awaiting you to take over the charge without wasting time in getting permits and developments, ready to start your business tomorrow. Many other medical and health-related facilities like test labs etc are very much possible. This strip mall is well-known for its Cardiology Hospital, Kbob Fusion Restaurant, Clay oven Restaurant Medical Clinic, Pharmacy, Dentist Clinic and many other businesses. This is one of the busiest plazas in the North East area it has a lot of parking spaces.NOTE: The physiotherapy equipment and furniture are negotiable separately and not included in the price. More details
    Listed by RE/MAX House of Real Estate
    Mohit Dhilon
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Data was last updated January 28, 2026 at 06:05 PM (UTC)

These featured properties highlight the most common commercial opportunities for Alberta buyers—industrial bays for trades/logistics, retail CRUs for service businesses, medical offices for long-term tenants, and automotive/service units for recession-resistant income. Reviewing these listings helps buyers understand pricing, cap rates, lease structures, and long-term performance trends across different asset classes and cities.

With the right strategy, buying commercial property becomes a predictable and profitable process. The Commercial Buyer Blueprint helps you make smart decisions, avoid costly mistakes, and secure high-quality assets that support long-term income and growth in Alberta’s thriving commercial market.

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Find Calgary & Alberta commercial properties for sale/lease with real-time MLS® listings. From retail to industrial, warehouses and development land, explore opportunities across Calgary, Airdrie, Chestermere, and beyond.

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