How Business Owners Can Act Strategically in Today's Real Estate Market

Real estate decisions are rarely just about buying or selling a property—especially for business owners. Each move, whether it's a purchase, renewal, or investment, has ripple effects across cash flow, tax strategy, and long-term financial planning.

To shed light on what today’s market means for entrepreneurs, we turned to Jim Henheffer, a Mortgage and Real Estate Specialist who has been closely observing how current conditions are affecting business owners. With inventory still tight and rates shaping borrower behavior, timing and preparation have never mattered more.

Here’s what Jim sees—and what you should be thinking about before your next real estate decision.

“Waiting Might Be the Most Expensive Decision You Make”

While some markets have seen a year-over-year increase in listings, inventory remains well below historical averages, particularly in the sub-$1 million range. “We’re still seeing bidding wars,” says Henheffer. “And on the rental side, low vacancy is driving people into the buyer’s market—often before they’re truly ready.”

Henheffer warns against assuming that waiting will lead to better conditions: “Inaction might feel like a safe move, but it can actually reduce your choices, increase your borrowing costs, and lead to less favorable terms.”

Why Business Owners Need a Different Kind of Mortgage Strategy

Entrepreneurs and incorporated professionals face unique challenges when qualifying for financing. Income fluctuations, retained earnings, and tax strategies often result in lower reported income, which doesn’t always translate well with traditional lending requirements.

“Standard pre-approvals don’t account for the full financial story of a business owner,” Henheffer explains. “You need an approach that factors in your corporate structure, tax planning, and long-term cash flow—not just what’s on paper.”

He emphasizes the importance of integrated planning: “When your advisor, accountant, and mortgage professional are aligned, the process becomes smoother, faster, and ultimately more successful.”

Renewals Aren’t Routine—They’re Strategic

Henheffer encourages business owners to treat mortgage renewals as inflection points, not paperwork. “It’s an opportunity to reevaluate your entire borrowing structure,” he says. “Are you with the right lender? Could you unlock equity? Improve cash flow? Restructure for future growth?”

Rather than simply renewing with the same institution out of convenience, he advises exploring the full spectrum of options available through both traditional and alternative lenders.

A Shift Toward Balance—and Opportunity

Although the market has eased from its most intense peaks, Henheffer sees this as a positive development: “Financing and inspection conditions are starting to return, which gives buyers more flexibility and time to make smart decisions.”

He views the current conditions as a strategic moment for prepared buyers: “When the market begins to stabilize, that’s when the most thoughtful deals get made—especially if you’ve done the upfront planning.”

Real Estate Should Fit Within Your Broader Financial Plan

Integrated Advisory believes that real estate is never a standalone decision—it’s one component of a broader financial strategy that may involve liquidity planning, tax optimization, retirement goals, and even succession.

“A mortgage isn’t just a liability—it can be a lever,” says Henheffer. “But only if it’s integrated into the rest of your financial plan.”

Whether you’re preparing to buy, approaching a renewal, or simply exploring your options, the right real estate strategy should align with both your personal and business objectives.

If you’re thinking about your next real estate move, connect with your advisor.