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THE CANNABIS INDUSTRY AND COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE -

Brian Lee BurkeBrian Lee Burke
Sep 16, 2022 5 min read
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THE CANNABIS INDUSTRY AND COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE -

Several commercial real estate firms specialize in the growing cannabis industry. Growers of cheap cannabis seeds increasingly choose to buy rather than rent properties, sometimes with the help of private investors and banks. In addition, home values in neighboring neighborhoods have increased an average of 13%, which means higher property taxes.

CannaMLS

The CannaMLS website, which is dedicated to cannabis business listings, is seeing a spike in listings in several established states. Its growth is mainly due to an increase in the number of licensed cannabis businesses for sale. The site has more than 5,000 listings nationwide.

The growing legalization of marijuana is also bringing an influx of real estate investors into the cannabis industry. Some buy properties in states where reform is likely to occur and flip them to marijuana businesses when legalized legislation becomes law. Other investors build and sell built-to-suit facilities to grow cannabis plants. Increasing demand for these properties increases the need for facilities and construction management. This demand is being met by specialized commercial real estate companies that cater to the needs of the marijuana industry.

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Let us help you. Call or Text Kenna Real Estate Group at 303-955-4220 to get personalized assistance from our expert real estate agents. Find out what your home is worth in today's market.

The growth in commercial properties for cannabis businesses means that landlords are finding it difficult to find space for other businesses and tenants. Regardless of the commercial property type, it must meet strict regulations. Landlords often have to retrofit buildings and install new plumbing and lighting. In addition, cannabis businesses must follow stringent environmental and security codes.

Impact of marijuana legalization on commercial real estate

There are many unknowns regarding the impact of marijuana legalization on commercial real estate. While the legalization of marijuana in New York has brought economic optimism to the state, landlords, and tenants should remain vigilant about the regulations that municipalities will implement. A cannabis-related business may pose unique insurance issues for landlords and property managers.

Marijuana is legal in 36 states. This is creating a massive demand for commercial space. The demand for cannabis businesses is generating premium property values in states where the drug is legal. In April 2017-2021, property values in states where recreational marijuana is legal increased by $17,113. That's almost five times more than the increase in home values in the same period. The demand for retail and office space is also increasing.

Ready to find your dream home in Colorado?
Let us help you. Call or Text Kenna Real Estate Group at 303-955-4220 to get personalized assistance from our expert real estate agents. Find out what your home is worth in today's market.

Although the data on marijuana is relatively new, it is possible to infer a direct correlation. However, some areas are likely to experience a more significant impact than others. The biggest payoff will come from increased property sales and rents. In addition, legalization will likely attract more consumers to areas with more dispensaries.

Barriers to opening a marijuana store

Cannabis is legal in many states, but there are still several barriers to opening a cannabis store. These include the federal government's view that the substance is illegal. This makes partnering with banks and other financial institutions difficult. As a result, many banks are wary of working with marijuana-related businesses. These institutions may also be afraid that they'll get involved in money laundering cases related to "drug trafficking." To avoid this, marijuana dispensaries must seek advice from financial and legal experts.

Another barrier to opening a marijuana store is the stigma associated with the product. Because it is still illegal, cannabis businesses cannot use traditional advertising methods, like billboards and radio. This leaves them with limited advertising options, including word-of-mouth marketing and networking. As a result, business owners need to develop innovative advertising strategies to attract potential customers.

Ready to find your dream home in Colorado?
Let us help you. Call or Text Kenna Real Estate Group at 303-955-4220 to get personalized assistance from our expert real estate agents. Find out what your home is worth in today's market.

Impact of marijuana legalization on property values

The impact of marijuana legalization on property values has been studied in various states. While some states have seen a significant increase in property values after legalizing marijuana, others have not seen that much change. This is because the cannabis industry is booming in legalized states, and the real estate industry is also booming in these areas.

For example, in Colorado, the legalization of marijuana has increased home values by six percent or $15,600 per property. The increase was even more significant in the states with retail marijuana dispensaries. Legalized marijuana also boosts demand for housing, creating new jobs and tourism opportunities in the area.

Ready to find your dream home in Colorado?
Let us help you. Call or Text Kenna Real Estate Group at 303-955-4220 to get personalized assistance from our expert real estate agents. Find out what your home is worth in today's market.

Financing options for cannabis businesses

When it comes to financing a cannabis business, you have many options. There are loans from banks and lenders, unsecured lines of credit, and real estate loans. These methods require a sizeable down payment and a strong credit score. If you plan on borrowing money, you'll need at least six hundred and eighty points to qualify.

Cannabis crowdfunding sites are another way to raise cash. However, unlike traditional lenders, these platforms require an investor to sign up as an investor. As such, cannabis businesses may have trouble raising money from ordinary people. Banks also need help with these platforms. For example, one site, 420fundme, was shut down for 30 days after being turned down by a bank.

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WRITTEN BY
Brian Lee Burke
Brian Lee Burke
AUTHOR, E-PRO®, REALTOR® BROKER

Brian Lee Burke is the founder and team leader of Kenna Real Estate Group, a real estate team at Keller Williams DTC. A licensed REALTOR® since 2002, Brian helps Colorado buyers and sellers navigate residential real estate, new construction, pricing, and negotiation. He is also the author of The Real Estate Playbook and Mastering Real Estate: Your Guide to Becoming a Top Agent.

View Brian Lee Burke’s full profile.