According to Jones Lang LaSalle, private investors continue to invest and represent a crucial component in the commercial property market despite the credit crunch.

The report has been published highlighting the significance of the private investor in the commercial property market and follows a three month analysis of the behavioural patterns of private investors also known as High Net Worth Individuals (HNWI) in UK property auction rooms over the last ten years.

With two thirds of property sold at commercial auction classified as retail, the report also highlights that this established group of investors are concentrating on UK High Street properties for the greatest returns. Banks and blue chip properties are shown as being the most attractive investments due to a surge in sale and lease-back deals and quality assets being more readily available.

Richard Auterac, director and auctioneer at Jones Lang LaSalle, said: “This new report highlights the importance of the private investor in the commercial property industry. Even though recent turbulence in the credit market has caused concern amongst institutional investors involved in equities, our research has identified that private investor sentiment remains strong as commercial property continues to outperform all other asset classes.”