Let’s be honest—when most people hear “commercial real estate,” they picture beige buildings, stiff suits, and enough jargon to make a zoning board cry. But here in southern New Hampshire, we do things differently. We’ve got grit, charm, and just enough chaos to keep things interesting. And if you’re not paying attention to what’s happening in this market, you might want to grab a coffee and catch up because the deals are heating up faster than a Dunkin’ drive-thru at 7 a.m.
Southern NH is having a moment. With Boston prices still acting like they’re auditioning for a Netflix drama, businesses are heading north drawn by lower costs, easier access, and the kind of community vibe that makes you want to actually stay after 5 p.m. From industrial flex spaces in Londonderry to retail storefronts in Derry and office conversions in Salem, the region is buzzing with opportunity. And no, it’s not just warehouses and parking lots—it’s transformation in real time.
Let’s talk numbers (briefly, I promise). As of Q2 2025, office vacancy in southern NH crept up to 13.7% which is a 70 basis point jump from last quarter. Translation: tenants are still cautious, but savvy investors smell opportunity (think repurposing). Meanwhile, the industrial market is flexing hard, with vacancy tightening to just 5.3% along the I-93 and Route 3 corridors. That’s tighter than my favorite pair of jeans after Thanksgiving.
And rental rates? Buckle up. Industrial rents have surged 43% over the past five years. That’s not a typo, it’s a wake-up call. If you’re sitting on a flex space under 20,000 SF, congratulations: you’re officially holding commercial gold. Office rents are holding steady, but landlords who upgrade their space (think HVAC, natural light, and not making tenants cry) are commanding premiums.
But here’s the real tea: southern NH isn’t just a market, it’s a whole mood. It’s where a tattoo studio can open next to a yoga café and both thrive. It’s where a woman-owned bakery can take over a former auto shop and turn it into a cinnamon-scented empire. It’s where survivors, dreamers, and rebels find square footage that matches their energy.
And if you’re thinking, “Well, I don’t know much about commercial real estate,” good news—you don’t need a degree in zoning law to get started. You need vision, guts, and maybe a spreadsheet or two. (Don’t worry, I’ve got templates.) Whether you’re buying, leasing, investing, or just curious, southern NH is the kind of place where bold moves actually pay off.
So if you’ve been waiting for a sign to dive into commercial real estate, this blog post is the sign. Don’t make me send a carrier pigeon.
Let’s build something bold. Let’s make beige buildings blush. Let’s turn survivor grit into square footage that works as hard as you do.
If this blog lit a fire under you, good! If not, I’ve got matches.
Southern NH is ready. Are you?
Click here, call or email and let’s turn your space into a statement—and your investment into impact.
Faulkner Commercial Group is part of Keller Williams Realty Success, Andover MA
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