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What to Include in Your Real Estate Property Due Diligence Checklist

Thorough due diligence is essential when embarking on a real estate development project to avoid costly surprises. A well-structured commercial property due diligence checklist helps ensure you’re fully aware of potential risks, site conditions, and regulatory requirements before moving forward. From environmental factors to utility availability, having the right information at hand is key to making informed decisions and securing the success of your project.

In this blog, we’ll outline the critical elements every real estate property due diligence checklist should include.

Understanding the Importance of Due Diligence in Property Development

Conducting thorough property due diligence is crucial for the success of any development project because it helps identify potential risks, avoid costly mistakes, and ensure regulatory compliance. By evaluating every aspect of the property—such as soil conditions, utility availability, zoning regulations, and environmental factors—developers can make informed decisions and mitigate unforeseen challenges.

This careful process minimizes the risk of financial loss, delays, or legal issues. It ensures the project is completed within budget and on time, ultimately contributing to the development’s overall success and sustainability.

Creating Your Commercial Property Due Diligence Checklist

Before moving forward with a commercial property development project, a detailed property due diligence checklist is essential for identifying potential risks and ensuring that the property meets all regulatory, environmental, and logistical requirements. This checklist helps developers avoid costly surprises and provides a smooth, efficient development process.

Let’s explore the critical elements that should be included in any commercial property due diligence checklist for your real estate project’s success.

Police and Fire Services

The proximity and availability of police and fire services are critical considerations for ensuring the safety and security of your commercial development. Being located near reliable emergency services helps with safety compliance and reassures future tenants and investors. Additionally, insurance rates can be affected by how well-served a property is by local emergency services, making this a vital part of due diligence.

Local Consensus on the New Development

Community sentiment toward new development can significantly impact your project’s success. Engaging with city planners and community groups early in the process can help gauge local attitudes. A supportive community can ease the permitting process and future operations, while opposition could result in delays, protests, or zoning restrictions. Proactively addressing concerns and understanding the local environment will help mitigate potential challenges.

Endangered Species Presence

Determining whether the property is home to any threatened or endangered species is critical. If such species are found, developers may face legal restrictions, environmental assessments, or mandatory conservation measures that can delay or alter project plans. It’s essential to conduct environmental surveys early to identify any potential hurdles and ensure that the development complies with federal and state wildlife regulations.

Frontage and Depth Relative to the Roads

Frontage and depth relative to roads are critical factors in determining how accessible and visible a property may be. A property with sufficient frontage makes transportation and logistics smoother, whether it’s for clients, suppliers, or employees. Properties with ample depth can better accommodate parking, delivery areas, or expansion. Evaluating this aspect can also help ensure compliance with setback requirements and city planning guidelines.

Soil Boring Analysis

A soil boring analysis is an essential step in understanding the geological conditions of the land. This process involves drilling into the ground to collect soil samples, which are then analyzed to determine if the soil can support the proposed structures. Issues such as soil stability, contamination, or the presence of bedrock can affect the feasibility and cost of development. Skipping this step could lead to costly surprises like foundation failure or extensive site preparation.

Available Utility Capacity

The availability and capacity of utilities, including water, electricity, gas, and sewage, are essential for the operation of any commercial property. It’s important to confirm that the property has adequate access to utilities or determine what upgrades might be needed to meet project demands. Insufficient utility capacity could lead to high costs or delays in getting essential services installed or expanded, making early evaluation crucial.

Relevant Codes and Ordinances

Understanding and adhering to all relevant building codes, zoning ordinances, and land use regulations is fundamental to ensuring a smooth development process. Non-compliance with these regulations can result in costly fines, forced modifications, or even the halting of your project. A thorough review of local laws and consultation with legal experts can help you avoid complications and ensure that your project meets all regulatory requirements.

Natural or Historically Significant Architecture

If your property includes natural or historically significant architecture, you must navigate complex preservation laws. These structures or features could limit the extent of development or renovations permitted on the site. In some cases, you may be required to preserve or restore certain aspects of the architecture, which can add to the project’s costs and timelines. Understanding these requirements upfront is crucial for accurate project planning.

By addressing these critical elements in your due diligence checklist, you’ll gain a comprehensive understanding of the property’s potential and limitations, ensuring that your commercial development proceeds smoothly and successfully.

Discover how Hokanson Companies real estate development solutions can help cross every mark off of your commercial property due diligence checklist.

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The Role of a Consultant in Property Development Due Diligence

Working with real estate consultants or owner representatives can significantly streamline the property development due diligence process. These professionals bring industry expertise and a thorough understanding of legal, environmental, and financial factors. They can identify potential risks early, ensuring compliance with local regulations and minimizing project delays.

Consultants also provide valuable insights through market analysis, site evaluations, and negotiation strategies, allowing developers to make informed decisions. By partnering with a knowledgeable consultant, property developers can save time, reduce costs, and enhance the overall success of their project—that’s where a professional like Hokanson Companies shines.

Ensure Seamless Real Estate Property Development With Hokanson Companies

At Hokanson Companies, we understand the importance of a thorough property due diligence checklist in ensuring a successful project. As industry professionals with decades of experience, we are here to guide you through the process and help identify potential risks before they become costly issues. Partnering with us ensures that every aspect of your real estate development is carefully considered, so your project runs smoothly from start to finish. Let us help you bring your vision to life with confidence and peace of mind.

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Christopher M. Horsley

President and Chief Executive Officer
cmh@hokansoninc.com

“Working hard to make a difference to earn your business.”

Chris Horsley joined Hokanson Companies, Inc. in 1997 while completing his degree in Civil Engineering at Purdue University. Chris began his employment at Hokanson Companies in the construction area and in 2000 added Property Management to his responsibilities. Now as President and Chief Executive Officer, he focuses his efforts on construction, development, and property/facility management. Chris oversees a team of property and construction managers to provide management services to approximately 5M square feet in a 7-state geographical service area. Chris also works closely with multiple financial institutions to meet their bank branch real estate needs which includes a 140-branch system across a 3-state geographical area.

Chris graduated from Purdue University in 1999 with a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering. He holds a Professional Indiana State License for an Engineer in Training (EIT) and an Indiana Real Estate Broker and is a Certified Commercial Investment Member (CCIM). Chis is also involved with The Building Owners and Managers Association (BOMA) and is currently serving on the International Executive Committee and is the President for BOMA Indianapolis.

Chris enjoys spending time, working in the business, being outside, riding motorcycles, exercising, playing golf, and being with his family.

Stephen J. Adams

Executive Vice President
sja@hokansoninc.com

Stephen J. Adams joined Hokanson Companies, Inc. in 2000 and now serves as the Executive Vice President for the company.  While leading the leasing and brokerage team over the past 25 + years, Stephen has grown his client list by being accountable, trustworthy and responsive at all times.  He manages his client’s corporate real estate needs from coast to coast through providing site selection, transaction advisory, tenant representation and acquisition/disposition services.

Stephen serves as the outsourced real estate partner to many major corporations and has developed long-term relationships by integrating and learning the business of his clients.  His proactive approach to cost savings has provided an invaluable benefit to his customers.  He continues to have success with both large, multinational companies and regional businesses as he earns his client’s business daily with an eye on strategic planning, both locally and nationally.

As Executive Vice President, he helps manage a team of seasoned professionals who provide expert market research, real estate knowledge, and function as a cohesive team to enhance the decision making of his clients.  Capabilities include strategic planning, market evaluation and transaction management.

Continuing the company’s history as the premier medical real estate provider, Stephen has developed relationships with the major hospital systems in Indiana, such as Indiana University Health, Community Health Network, Ascension St. Vincent, Lutheran Health, Parkview Health, Hancock Regional Health and Johnson Memorial Hospital.  In addition, representation services have been provided to many private physician groups such as OPTUM, Otolaryngology Associates, Dawes Fretzin Dermatology, Indiana Spine Group, Midwest Fertility, Northside Gastroenterology, The Surgery Center of Indianapolis, the Suburban Health Organization and the Indiana Hospital Association.

Stephen also counts several publicly traded REITS and Private Equity groups as clients.  Major investment sales experience includes on-campus MOBs at St. Vincent – Indianapolis, Indiana University – Methodist Downtown, Indiana University Health North and West Campuses, Parkview Health, Lutheran Health and various other campuses.  Also, he has completed several national, single-tenant, industrial sale/leaseback transactions including tenants such as Hershey’s, Firestone and several 3PL providers.

Stephen has devoted his time to various organizations including Noble of Indiana, Penrod Arts Society, Youthlinks Indiana, Hoosier Oncology Group, Allisonville Youth Baseball, St. Pius X School, and Cathedral High School the Governors Awards for Tomorrows Leaders.  He is also a member of the Stanley K. Lacy Executive Leadership Series, Class XXXVII.

Jay B. Gehl

Vice Chairman
jbg@hokansoninc.com

Jay Gehl serves as Vice Chairman of Hokanson Companies, Inc.  With over thirty years of experience, Jay has been directing and managing the company’s expertise in the areas of corporate advisory work, strategic planning, tenant representation, financial analysis of leases, brokerage, and build-to-suit assistance.  He has been instrumental in assisting the efforts of several major corporations establishing or relocating their corporate headquarters and managing vast portfolios of leased and owned properties across the United States.  His attention to detail and his unparalleled customer service have been the foundation of his relationships with the institutional customers served by Hokanson Companies, Inc.

Jay has excelled in investment sales with multiple transactions each year that annually rank him as a top producing broker on a local and national level. In addition, Jay’s efforts have helped corporate clients establish or renew leases in facilities across the United States from Connecticut to California.  He has also served the international needs of his clients in six countries including a facility in Turrialba, Costa Rica with 230,000 square feet and 35 acres.

Jay’s resume includes multiple build-to-suits of logistics and manufacturing facilities.  In addition, investment sales such as the 550,000 square foot U.S. Postal Facility in downtown Indianapolis and a 450,000 square foot medical portfolio make Jay a top producer in the local market while managing a team of highly experienced real estate professionals.  The success of Jay’s business is benchmarked by the multiple transactions and ongoing relationships with customers that have remained satisfied by the level of service and the quality of the transactions resulting from his guidance.

Today Jay continues to excel at providing excellent advice and service to several customers that lead their individual industries in quality, growth, and innovation.

Stephen P. Hokanson

Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer, CRE, CPM, RPA
sph@hokansoninc.com

“We put our clients’ interests first… always.”

Steve Hokanson serves as Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of Hokanson Companies, Inc. He began with HCI in 1971, and has been its President and CEO since 1983. When Steve joined the organization, Hokanson Companies was primarily focused on property management. Under Steve’s leadership, Hokanson Companies has grown to include four active divisions and five separate disciplines.

HCI currently manages over 6 Million square feet under its property management division, and has over $100 million in project management and development. Its sales and leasing division closes over $100 million in sales and leases annually, while they continue to be very active in construction management for its various clients and out-of-ground buildings.

In addition to his role at HCI, Steve has also fulfilled numerous civic and professional leadership roles locally, statewide, and nationally, including the International President of BOMA International 1991-1993. Steve’s other accomplishments include being selected for the Stanley K. Lacy Executive Leadership Series, the Eagle Scout Silver Beaver Award, the National Distinguished Eagle Scout Award, named in Outstanding Young Men in America, and the Sagamore of the Wabash award, which is the highest award given in the State of Indiana by our Governor.

Steve Hokanson graduated from Indiana University in 1969 with a Bachelor of Science in Management and Administration. Steve is a licensed Real Estate Broker in the State of Indiana, and his designations include Counselor of Real Estate (CRE), Certified Property Manager (CPM), and Real Property Administrator (RPA).

Boyd R. Zoccola

Chief Development Officer
brz@hokansoninc.com

“Your ideas become reality through our combined efforts.”

Boyd R. Zoccola serves as Chief Development Officer of Hokanson Companies Inc. With over 25 years of experience, he focuses his expertise on development of office and medical space, and corporate consulting. Boyd has been actively involved in the development of nearly $600 million worth of real estate, including client partners like IU Health, Springleaf Financial, Vectren Corporation, and Old National Bank.

Boyd’s industry involvement with The Building Owners and Managers Association (BOMA) is extensive beginning in 1994. He served as Chair and Chief Elected Officer of BOMA International, and has also served on the Executive, Finance, Medical, and Healthcare Facilities Committees. He also served and chaired numerous task forces along with being a panelist and/or speaker. Boyd’s BOMA Indianapolis experience includes positions as President, Vice President, Treasurer, Secretary, and multiple committee chairs. In addition, Boyd served as a Board Member of the Real Estate Round Table from 2011-2012.

Boyd graduated from Indiana University with a BA in Biology and is a graduate of the Stanley K. Lacy Leadership Series. Boyd has served the community through his involvement with Horizon House, Girls Inc., and the IYHA. He is a member of Second Presbyterian Church, Sigma Chi Alumni Association, Meridian Hills Country Club, and is an Indiana Real Estate Principal Broker.

Tony R. Townsley

Chief Financial Officer, CPA
trt@hokansoninc.com

“A great company has great people who are passionate about what they do! I am proud to be a part of the Hokanson Team, where we demonstrate that passion every day in helping our customers solve their Real Estate challenges.”

Tony Townsley serves as Chief Financial Officer of Hokanson Companies, Inc. Tony began with HCI in 2001, bringing with him 25 years of accounting and operations management experience including four years with Arthur Anderson. This vast knowledge has contributed to his success overseeing the corporate financial reporting, cash management, budget coordination, and year-end audit and tax responsibilities at Hokanson.

Tony graduated from Indiana University in 1985 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting. He is a Certified Public Accountant, and was appointed by the Governor to serve on the Governor’s Council of Impaired and Dangerous Driving. Tony also served on the Wine and Spirit Wholesalers’ Board of Directors. Currently, he’s involved with the Merciful Help Center, and is an active member of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic Church.

Tony enjoys spending time outdoors with his family, camping, fishing, biking, and reading. Those same family values led him in publishing a children’s book titled “Three Cups”, which teaches children how to save, spend, and be charitable with their money. There are more than 50,000 copies of the book in distribution.