Fri, May 23rd, 2025
Commercial and Mixed-Use Land See Strong Interest in Online Auction Market
While farmland continues to perform well across the Midwest, another segment gaining traction in the online auction space is commercial and mixed-use land. At Central States Brokers & Auctioneers, we’ve seen a noticeable uptick in interest for rural properties with commercial potential—particularly those with highway access, proximity to small towns, or flexible zoning.
Several factors are contributing to this trend:
- Remote Work and Rural Growth: As more families and entrepreneurs look to establish businesses or home-based operations outside of metro areas, demand for small-acreage commercial land has grown. Properties suited for storage facilities, contractor yards, agribusiness infrastructure, and live/work setups are drawing competitive bidding.
- Investor Confidence: With volatility in other markets, commercial land—especially with income potential or development flexibility—is viewed as a relatively stable asset. Online auctions give investors a clear timeline, vetted property details, and competitive transparency.
- Zoning and Utility Access: Land near existing infrastructure—electric, water, or road frontage—often stands out in today’s market. We’re seeing higher interest in tracts that balance accessibility with affordability, especially in areas where light commercial or ag-commercial zoning applies.
Online-only auctions have made it easier for commercial buyers to evaluate and pursue properties across wider regions. Many commercial users are already familiar with virtual bidding environments, making the transition seamless.
As summer listings roll out, we expect to see continued activity in this space. From legacy family businesses transitioning out of rural storefronts, to new investment-backed ventures looking for a footprint, rural commercial land remains an important (and often overlooked) piece of the auction landscape.
