As a whole, the automotive real estate market is showing steady growth, rising on average ~51% since 2014 and accounting for a growing share of transaction value. Automotive sale-leasebacks are becoming increasingly common because they free up capital previously tied up in real estate while allowing the company to keep operating in the same location.
We provide expert real estate solutions tailored to auto-related businesses, including auto repair shops, car dealerships, tire centers, body shops, and smog stations. From property acquisition and leasing to site selection and investment sales, we understand the unique zoning, power, access, and layout requirements of the automotive industry. Our Orange County, California market knowledge ensures your business is positioned for operational efficiency, visibility, and long-term success.
Whether you have an auto shop for sale, an auto repair shop sale, or looking for an auto shop for lease, SVN Auto advisors in Orange County and greater Southern California can help you achieve your investment goals.
Automotive real estate refers to properties specifically designed or zoned for automotive uses. Types of auto real estate properties include auto repair shops, tire and lube centers, body shops, smog stations, car washes, gas stations, and vehicle dealerships.
Zoning constraints, environmental regulations, power needs, ventilation, drainage, and ingress/egress requirements have reduced the auto real estate market to a niche investment, but that is quickly changing. While the factors mentioned limit supply— demand is rising. More vehicles on the road, the expansion of EV services, and a surge in independent operators are driving increased investor and operator interest in this high-cash-flow, low-vacancy asset class.
If you’re an auto shop owner looking to expand or relocate in Orange County, California or other areas of Southern California, follow our guide below to strategically find the right auto shop for sale or lease.
It should be noted that not all brokers understand the zoning, utility, and compliance requirements to complete an auto real estate transaction. A specialized agent can identify off-market opportunities. Specialized agents can also verify zoning compatibility. A prospective owner or lessee should also keep in mind that specialized agents are experienced with negotiating based on buildout cost, equipment value, and environmental risk. One of our team members can also connect you with trusted vendors for Phase I reports, inspections, etc.
A qualified automotive real estate professional can help you identify the right areas to invest in. Not all areas are zoned for automotive use. Automotive use zonings can include: C-M, M-1, C-2, etc., depending on the city. With your advisor, narrow your search to identify properties that allow auto repair, sales, or storage.
Another thing to confirm with your agent is that the properties you are interested in meet CUP (Conditional Use Permit) requirements if needed. A Conditional Use Permit (CUP) is a zoning approval granted by a city or county that allows a property to be used for a purpose not automatically permitted under its current zoning—but allowed under certain conditions. In auto real estate, this often applies to businesses like auto repair shops, body shops, car washes, smog stations, or used car lots, which can trigger community concerns related to noise, traffic, or hazardous materials.
Our advisors can also help you confirm whether or not the selected site might have a legal non-conforming status (grandfathered use) that allows for automotive operations. Legal non-conforming status—often called “grandfathered use”—means an automotive property was legally operating under older zoning rules before current restrictions took effect. Though the zoning has changed (e.g., to retail, residential, or mixed-use), the auto use is still allowed as long as it continues without interruption.