With new cooling measures in place, some property investors are now considering alternatives – and one that feels close to home is commercial spaces inside condos. It’s not uncommon for many developments to have minimarts, clinics, cafés, etc. within the project itself. But are these “condo shops” a viable asset? Here’s what to check before you buy: Why buy a “condo shop”? The highlight of these retail spaces is that, in theory, they have a secured customer base: the residents in the condo will find the “condo shops” to be the most convenient source of amenities. But their strength is also their drawback. Quite often, the customer base is restricted to the condo residents. This ties the fate of the property to the popularity of the condo; and unless you’re going to operate a business yourself, tenants can be tough to find. Here’s a rundown of what to check, when you’re deciding on whether to buy:...