In part 1 of this article, we considered the location and general questions you want to answer before looking at your first commercial property. In this part, we look at the questions to ask about the actual space configuration requirements needed to run your business. You want to strike the right balance. You’ll need enough space so that your employees are happy, your operations function efficiently, you are portraying the appropriate image, and maybe so you even have room for some growth, all without breaking the bank.
Every company has different commercial real estate needs that are specific to their industry. For instance, a medical office might need exam rooms and a lab, a restaurant usually needs walk-in coolers and a grease trap, and a distribution company probably needs docks or drive ramps.
Essential Questions to Ask Before you Look for Commercial Space
These basic questions should give you a good starting place. You will be on the right track when you begin to research what’s available for lease on the commercial real estate market.
- What kind of commercial property do you need? Industrial, office, retail, specialty?
- How many square feet will you need?
- Do you want an open floorplan, private offices, or a combination?
- Do you anticipate needing room to grow?
- What kind of improvements will you be asking the landlord for beyond paint and flooring?
- Do you need any of the following: offices, storage rooms, kitchen or breakroom, conference room, showroom, reception area and or lobby, server room, training room, restrooms, workstations, or a warehouse?
- Do you have any special electrical, heating, cooling, IT, security, safety, or regulatory requirements?
Of course, there are a lot more questions to ask that are particular to your situation. In part three, we’ll look at typical qualifying questions a landlord might ask you. If you need help, in the meantime, check out our reviews, and then ask us to help you today.