There was a time when only big corporate investors bought commercial spaces. But in Alberta right now we are watching something very new. Everyday small and mid sized investors call us at Green Casa and ask about commercial bays because they want something stable with predictable income and honestly commercial bays are becoming the new side hustle trend.
Why Commercial Bays Are Becoming so Popular
It started with small business growth. A lot of people in Calgary left traditional jobs and opened their own service businesses. Mechanics, wholesalers, coffee roasters, detailers, online shops needing storage space, fitness studios. All these businesses need simple functional space. Commercial bays are perfect for this and the supply is not keeping up.
Some towns like Airdrie and Chestermere are building new light industrial zones but even those fill up fast. That tells you demand is real.
Investors Love the Stability
A retail tenant might leave every few years. But a business renting a commercial bay usually stays for many years because moving is expensive. This means investors get stable long term income without the turnover headaches you get in residential rentals.
Plus commercial tenants often take great care of the bay because their business reputation is tied to that space.
New Builds Make It Even Better
There is a whole wave of new build commercial spaces in Calgary’s east side and in towns like Cochrane or Okotoks. These new bays are clean, insulated better, easier to maintain, and more attractive for long-term leases.
And yes, some owners are even using CMHC MLI Select on multi-bay and mixed-use buildings. That financing boost enables holding larger assets with better cash flow from day one.
The Part Most Investors Miss
When you manage commercial tenants well, they become loyal. They often grow their business and lease multiple bays. They refer other business owners. They stay for 5 or 10 years. That kind of long-term stability is rare in most real estate classes.
At Green Casa, we handle lease renewals, inspections, maintenance, and keep communication smooth so your investment stays simple and solid.
