St. Augustine Commercial Buyer Representation Attorney

Safeguarding Your Commercial Real Estate Acquisition

Whether you’re purchasing office space, retail properties, industrial facilities, or land for development, commercial acquisitions are high-stakes transactions. At St. Johns Law Group, St. Augustine’s largest law firm with extensive experience in real estate matters, we deliver comprehensive commercial buyer representation to clients across Northeast Florida.

From due diligence and contract negotiations to closing and post-acquisition compliance, we provide the strategic legal support that protects your business and maximizes your investment potential.

Why You Need a Commercial Buyer Attorney

Commercial real estate differs markedly from residential transactions—every deal is unique and legally complex. Common challenges include:

• Highly negotiated contracts with varied, case-specific clauses

• Zoning and land use compliance for development or conversion

• Environmental and survey-related risks (e.g., Phase I/II, ALTA/NSPS)

• Financing, entity structuring, and tax implications

• Leases or existing tenants requiring analysis

We help you avoid pitfalls by thoroughly reviewing contracts, title, zoning, due diligence, and closing documents—serving as your legal advocate every step of the way.

📌 Cluster Connection: Explore our Commercial Lease page for tenant-related obligations and leases.

What Our Commercial Buyer Representation Includes

Contract Drafting & Negotiation

We draft, review, and negotiate purchase-and-sale agreements tailored to your objectives—incorporating clear contingencies, remedies, and closing protections.

Due Diligence & Title Review

Our attorneys analyze title reports and survey data, identifying and managing:

• Easements, liens, and encumbrances

• Zoning, permitting, and land-use concerns

• Environmental liabilities (Phase I/II reports)

• Existing leases or tenant estoppel certificates

Entity Structuring & Compliance

We advise on optimal entity structures (LLC, corporation, partnership) for liability protection and tax efficiency—critical for long-term investment success.

Closing & Post-Closing Support

Our firm coordinates with title companies, lenders, brokers, and accountants to ensure seamless closings, accurate documentation, and robust post-closing services such as deed preparation and escrow instructions.

📌 Related Pages: Review our Closings & Title and Land Use & Zoning.

Types of Commercial Properties We Serve

• Retail centers and storefronts

• Office buildings and professional suites

• Warehouses and industrial facilities

• Medical/dental offices and clinics

• Multi-family and mixed-use developments

• Vacant land for commercial or mixed-use development

• Hospitality, resort properties, and commercial condominiums

• Additional services: 1031 exchanges, seller-financed deals, and portfolio acquisitions

Who We Represent

Our clients include:

• Corporate and individual investors (local and out-of-state)

• Small business owners and franchisees

• Developers, medical practices, and professional groups

• Real estate funds, holding companies, and institutional investors

We help you acquire commercial property with confidence—raised by expert legal support at every transaction stage.

Regional Coverage

We serve commercial buyers across:

• St. Johns County: St. Augustine, Ponte Vedra, Nocatee, Silverleaf, Augustine Beach

• Duval County: Jacksonville, San Marco, Atlantic Beach

• Flagler County: Palm Coast, Flagler Beach

• Clay County: Fleming Island, Green Cove Springs

• Putnam County: Palatka, East Palatka

• Southern Georgia: Select cases in St. Marys, Kingsland, Brunswick

Attorney Team for Commercial Transactions

• Douglas N. Burnett — Founder with deep expertise in land use and commercial real estate

• John L. Whiteman — Senior counsel with decades in high-stakes real estate transactions

• Shaun Saliba — Litigation specialist supportive in due diligence and post-closing disputes

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What’s the difference between residential and commercial real estate transactions?
Commercial real estate requires completely customized drafting, due diligence, and structuring. It often includes zoning implications, business rent schedules, and environmental considerations—unlike standardized residential transactions.

How long does a commercial purchase take?
Commercial closings typically span 45–90 days, depending on due diligence length, financing contingencies, and regulatory compliance.

Do I need a business entity to purchase commercial property?
While not mandatory, forming an LLC or corporation is highly advisable to shield personal assets and optimize tax obligations.

What is a Phase I environmental assessment?
It’s a critical due diligence step assessing potential contamination risks. If issues are flagged, a deeper Phase II test may follow.

📞Call St. Augustine Commercial Buyer Representation Attorneys

📞 Call 904.495.0400 or visit our Contact Page to schedule a consultation.

With St. Johns Law Group, you’re not just buying property—you’re gaining a legal partnership that ensures your commercial purchase is secure, compliant, and built for long-term success.