Selling a commercial property in Queensland can be a lucrative move, but success starts with preparation. Whether you own a retail unit in Brisbane or an office complex on the Gold Coast, getting your property ready to list is critical to attracting the right buyers and securing the best deal. Here’s a comprehensive checklist to help you assess if your property is market-ready.

1. Legal Compliance Check

• Zoning and Land Use: Ensure your property’s current use aligns with local council zoning regulations. Click here to learn more about this 

• Building Approvals: Verify that all improvements or modifications have the necessary council approvals.

• Certificates: Secure a current Certificate of Classification and compliance certificates for fire safety, electrical, and plumbing.

2. Lease Review

• Review tenant lease agreements. Are they current, enforceable, and attractive to potential investors?

• Provide a detailed rent roll and disclose any upcoming vacancies or lease renewals.

• Address any arrears or disputes.

3. Financial Documentation

• Compile at least 2–3 years of financial performance data, including income, expenses, and capital improvements.

• Highlight strong tenancy or potential rental uplift to appeal to investors.

4. Maintenance and Presentation

• Conduct a thorough inspection and complete any necessary repairs.

• Consider a fresh coat of paint, landscaping, or signage improvements.

• Ensure common areas and amenities are clean, functional, and well-presented.

5. Valuation and Appraisal

• Get a professional valuation to understand your property’s market value.

• Request a comparative market analysis (CMA) from your agent.

6. Marketing Strategy

• Identify your target buyer: owner-occupier, investor, or developer?

• Prepare marketing materials: professional photos, floorplans, and detailed brochures.

• Partner with a local agent who understands Queensland’s commercial market nuances.

7. Engage a Professional Team

• Enlist a commercial real estate agent, solicitor, and accountant with Queensland expertise. At McGees we have a network of professional and we can recommend you a few. Contact us for more information. Reason: every Friday, we have Knowledge Exchange sessions, where we invite professional from different industries to provide "knowledge" about a specific subject. 

• Discuss your goals, timelines, and any capital gains or GST implications.

8. Prepare a Detailed Tenancy Schedule

A well-prepared tenancy schedule is one of the most critical documents in your sales toolkit. It offers prospective buyers a snapshot of your property's income stream and tenant stability. Here’s what it should include:

• Tenant names and business types

• Lease start and end dates

• Option periods (if applicable)

• Rent payable (monthly/annually)

• Outgoings payable by each tenant

• Rent review terms and dates

• Security deposits or bank guarantees held

• Special clauses or incentives (e.g., rent-free periods)

Ensure this schedule is current, accurate, and professionally formatted. A clean, comprehensive tenancy schedule can significantly enhance buyer confidence and streamline due diligence.

Buyers will ask you for this document. If you are using a commercial property manager, this document can be provided this to you with ease.

Here is an example how it looks like

Property: 123 Resimercial Rd, Suburb A, QLD 4XXX
Property ID: 123RRR
Total Net Lettable Area (NLA): 1,330 m²
Vacant Area: 355 m² (26.69%)
Annual Net Income (Post-Abatement): $553,380

Explanation of Key Terms:

• NLA (Net Lettable Area): The floor space tenants occupy exclusively.

• Rent/m²: Rental rate per square metre.

• Rent Review: Scheduled rent increase—usually tied to CPI or fixed percentage.

• Abatement: Temporary rent reduction, often used as an incentive to secure tenants.

• Option Term: Additional term(s) the tenant may exercise after the initial lease

9. Understand the New Seller's Disclosure Requirements

Starting 1 August 2025, Queensland's Property Law Act 2023 introduces a mandatory seller's disclosure regime for both residential and commercial properties. Sellers must provide a signed disclosure statement, including prescribed certificates, to buyers before contract signing. This statement should encompass:

• Title search

• Registered survey plan

• Details of unregistered encumbrances

• Body corporate certificate (for community titles schemes)

• Information on pool safety compliance, environmental notices, and current rates and water charges

Failure to provide this disclosure can grant buyers termination rights. Preparing this documentation early ensures compliance and fosters buyer confidence.

Final Thoughts

Listing your commercial property isn’t just about putting up a sign. It is about making a strategic move. By following this checklist, you will enhance your property’s appeal and improve your odds of a smooth, successful sale in Queensland’s competitive market.

For a complete list of weekly commercial transactions in Queensland, visit McGees Wrap Up | McGees Property Brisbane

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or professional advice. While we strive for accuracy, we make no guarantees regarding the completeness or timeliness of the content. Always seek independent advice before making any financial or real estate decisions. We are not liable for any loss or damages arising from your reliance on the information provided.

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