Looking to buy, sell, or lease commercial property in Northwest Indiana? I’m Josh Pavich — a broker with hands-on experience in both real estate and commercial construction. I understand building systems, zoning requirements, and what it actually costs to operate a commercial space. That background means I evaluate properties differently than agents who’ve never set foot on a job site.
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Why Hire a Broker With Construction Experience
Most commercial agents can pull comps and write contracts. What they can’t do is walk into a 20,000 sq ft warehouse, look at the HVAC system, the roof condition, the electrical panel, and the plumbing — and tell you what it’ll cost to bring it up to code. Ten years running an HVAC company means I’ve been inside hundreds of commercial buildings across Porter and Lake County. That’s not a resume line — it’s a competitive advantage for my clients.
Commercial Services
Buying Commercial Property
Whether you’re acquiring your first storefront or expanding a portfolio, I help you find the right property, evaluate its true condition, and negotiate from a position of knowledge. I specialize in:
- Retail & Office Space — Downtown storefronts, strip centers, professional offices across Portage, Valparaiso, and Chesterton.
- Industrial & Warehouse — Manufacturing facilities, distribution centers, flex space along the I-94 and I-65 corridors.
- Mixed-Use Properties — Residential-over-commercial buildings with multiple income streams.
- Building Condition Assessment — HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and structural evaluation before you sign. No surprises post-close.
Selling Commercial Property
Selling commercial is different from residential — longer timelines, more sophisticated buyers, and deals that hinge on financials, not emotions. I position your property to attract serious buyers with:
- Accurate Valuation — Cap rate analysis, income approach, and comparable sales specific to NWI commercial.
- Targeted Marketing — Reaching investors, developers, and business owners actively looking in Porter and Lake County.
- Deal Structuring — Seller financing, lease-backs, 1031 exchanges, and creative terms that maximize your net.
Leasing & Tenant Representation
Need space for your business? I help tenants find the right location, negotiate favorable lease terms, and avoid the hidden costs that eat into your bottom line — like HVAC systems that are 2 years from replacement or triple-net surprises buried in the lease.
Zoning & Development
Navigating Porter County and Lake County zoning boards is half the battle with commercial development. I help clients identify parcels with the right zoning classification, navigate variance requests, and work through the permitting process from site plan to certificate of occupancy.
Commercial Property Types I Work With
- Retail & Shopping Centers
- Office Buildings
- Warehouses & Distribution
- Manufacturing Facilities
- Multi-Tenant Buildings
- Restaurant & Food Service
- Medical & Professional
- Vacant Land (Commercial Zoned)
Commercial Service Area
Portage · Valparaiso · Chesterton · Hobart · Merrillville · Crown Point · Burns Harbor · all of Porter & Lake County
Valparaiso · Portage · Chesterton · Hobart
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you handle commercial leases?
Yes. I represent both landlords and tenants in commercial lease negotiations across Porter and Lake County. I review lease terms, negotiate rent and build-out allowances, and make sure you understand the full cost structure (base rent, CAM, taxes, insurance).
What’s the advantage of your HVAC background for commercial deals?
Commercial HVAC systems can cost $50,000-$200,000+ to replace. Most agents can’t tell you if the rooftop unit is 5 years old or 25. I can — and I factor that into the negotiation. Same goes for electrical capacity, plumbing condition, and building envelope issues. You get a broker who thinks like a contractor.
Can you help with zoning changes or variances?
I guide clients through the zoning process — identifying properties with compatible zoning, preparing variance applications, and representing your interests at planning commission meetings. I’ve worked across both Porter and Lake County jurisdictions.
Do you work with 1031 exchanges?
Absolutely. I help investors identify replacement properties within the 45-day identification window and coordinate with qualified intermediaries to ensure your exchange stays compliant. See my investment properties page for more on investor services.
Let’s Talk Commercial
Whether you’re buying your first commercial property or selling a multi-tenant building, I’ll give you an honest assessment of your situation and a clear plan to move forward.
📞 (219) 508-8579 · ✉️ Josh_pavich@protonmail.com
Josh Pavich · Broker Associate, McColly Real Estate · 6445 US HWY RT 6, Portage, Indiana 46368