July 22, 2025 • General
When people talk about real estate, the phrase “location, location, location” always comes up. But in commercial real estate, the idea of a “prime” location isn’t just about being near downtown or off a busy road. It’s about the right mix of visibility, access, surrounding tenants, and long-term potential.
Here’s a closer look at what makes a commercial property’s location truly stand out.
1. Can People See It?
If nobody knows a business is there, it’s going to struggle. That’s why visibility is so important. Storefronts that face busy roads or sit on corners tend to get more attention. Even better if they’re near traffic lights where cars stop and look around. Signage matters too—good signage placement can make a big difference.
2. Is It Easy to Get To?
Customers and clients don’t want a hassle. If parking is a nightmare or it’s tucked behind a confusing intersection, people might choose somewhere else. Prime spots are easy to find, simple to get in and out of, and have convenient parking or nearby public transit. Whether it’s retail, medical, or office use, ease of access always matters.
3. Who Lives (or Works) Nearby?
Think about the people around the property. Are they the type of customers your tenants want? For example, a high-end salon will do better in a neighborhood with disposable income. A pediatric clinic should be near young families. Prime means the property is surrounded by the right kind of population to support the type of business moving in.
4. Who Else Is Next Door?
Having a strong neighbor can boost business. Being next to a busy grocery store or big-name retail chain can drive a ton of extra foot traffic. This is especially true for smaller retail shops or food services. Tenants often like being near anchor stores that pull steady traffic all day long.
5. Is It Zoned and Ready to Go?
It’s not enough for a property to look good—it needs to be usable. Zoning laws, signage restrictions, utility access—these all play a role. A “prime” location has the right approvals in place and is ready for business without months of red tape. That means less waiting and more doing.
6. Is the Area Growing?
Some of the best investments are in areas that are just starting to boom. Look for signs of development—new subdivisions, schools being built, planned infrastructure improvements. If the area is improving and demand is on the rise, that could mean you’re ahead of the curve.
Wrapping It Up
In the end, a prime location depends on more than just a street address. It’s about visibility, convenience, compatible neighbors, local demand, and growth potential. If those pieces are in place, the chances of long-term success go way up—for both tenants and owners.
Whether you’re buying, leasing, or investing, keep these factors in mind before calling a property “prime.” And if you’re unsure, working with a local team that knows the market—like Wellborn Real Estate—can make the process smoother and more successful.