"The marketing effort for these properties focused on finding knowledgeable and experienced buyers. Success in commercial real estate depends on the ability to focus on the unique features of each property to find the right buyer," said Clifton. He specializes in office, industrial, retail and income property sales in the Greater Tampa Bay area. He attributes the sale of the almost 122-acre industrial park to its proximity to Port Manatee and the interstate system. According to Clifton, "An integral part of the sale included working with the land developer to fulfill and verify the entitlements. Proving the market potential was a big part of our marketing for the Buckeye Industrial Park the first major industrial park in the area." The adjoining 16.48-acre parcel is zoned and entitled ready for pad and building construction. FedEx plans a 123,367-square-foot ground distribution facility serving the lower Tampa Bay area.

"The sale included working with FedEx's development consultant and their developer who required an RFP for construction before the deal was completed," said Clifton. The Ballast Point Car Wash sale was an income sale with a 10% cap rate on verifiable income. Ideally located across Dale Mabry, from Home Depot and Sam's Club, the car wash features five self-serve bays and one auto body car wash built in 2002. The buyer was an individual investor who will oversee operation with employees and service companies. According to Clifton, "The deal was very smooth because I have a long and successful history with my client. Among the most important services I provide are the assurance that investments are appropriate to current situations and that an asset sale or lease retains the maximum equity dollar."

Charles Clifton, CCIM, may be reached at 813-289-1712.