Of course you want a great space for your business. You want a space that reflects your company brand, that works for the day to day operations of your business and one that fits your budget. Let’s take a look at five important factors you should address before you find the perfect address to print on your business card and stationery!

1. 1. You’ve heard it before when it comes to real estate ¬– location, location, location! But there’s a reason why this phrase is so important. You want to choose a location that’s easy for your clients to access but one that’s also easy for your employees to get to. Also, consider what’s nearby. Is there easy access to the interstate or main thoroughfares? What about restaurants, shopping and banks, so employees can quickly and easily run errands at lunch.
   2. When considering what to spend, make sure the space is priced in line with comparable commercial office spaces in the area. Don’t get too little space that you outgrow it in a year but don’t get so much that you struggle to pay rent. Ask about the hidden costs such as maintenance and yearly increases.
   3. We touched on size in the previous topic, but a general rule of thumb is to plan for 70 square feet per person for individual work spaces, or around 150 sq. ft. per person for total space which would include common areas and open, collaborative workspaces.
   4. Most commercial real estate spaces have internet access available to the building but depending on what type of service you provide, you may need more than the basics. Discuss with your real estate agent what type of services you provide and the type of infrastructure you’ll require. Suppose you’re a title company and you deal with signed documents daily. Postal services may be crucial for your business while not even a blip on a radar for someone else.
   5. What’s your “vision” for your business? Do you see yourself as a modern business that’s housed in an open loft with high ceilings and open spaces? Or are you more traditional, preferring a quieter setting with fewer common areas? Knowing the vision you have for your business and how you wish to portray yourself speaks to many of these factors. It can impact where you look, how much you’ll pay for space and how much customization may be required to get exactly what you want.

No matter what you’re looking for, Blue Ridge Realty’s highly experienced agents will work hard to find you the perfect location at a price that fits your budget. Let’s get started! 865.470.4868

It’s always a very good idea to read carefully anything you sign your name to. And that pertains to a lease, whether residential or commercial. Don’t be afraid to ask questions because there will very likely be wording or terms that are unclear. Retain a lawyer and seek clarification if something is particularly confusing or if you wish to have certain items amended or added to the lease.

In general, commercial leases are apt to be more negotiable than residential leases as businesses often require special features for their spaces and landlords are willing to be flexible in order to attract tenants.

Consider the physical space as compared to the physical needs of your business. Do you need a sign that’s visible from the street? Is there a direct competitor in the same building? Is there room for growth or will you be moving again in two-three years?

Before you sign anything, complete a walk-through of the property you plan to lease. Carefully note and photograph any existing damage to the property and make a list of any repairs you want the landlord to make. Documentation is crucial, so you are not charged for the damage upon vacating the space.

Before you take occupancy, make sure all repairs have been completed. If you need to move in before repairs can take place, make sure any work or upgrades that still need to be done are noted on the lease.

Other important items to consider carefully:

• Renewal options
• Rate increases
• Utilities, what’s included, what are you expected to pay
• Security deposit and conditions for its return
• Maintenance and repair of premises, who is responsible for what
• If and how the lease may be terminated
• Will there be modifications, updates, improvements as the property ages

Do your homework and look at multiple properties so you can to be certain you find the right location, space and landlord. Blue Ridge Realty, Inc. is one of East Tennessee’s most trusted and well-respected real estate companies and we would be happy to assist you with your search for the perfect commercial space.

Our sales and leasing experts are here to help! 865.470.4868.

Ready to sign a new commercial office lease agreement for your business? Before you do make sure to consider the following:

1. Have I carefully read and do I fully understand the entire lease agreement?

• Check definitions of unfamiliar terms
• Ask for clarification and consult your attorney on “legal speak” terms and phrases
• Make sure everything that has been negotiated prior to the contract draft is represented in the lease
• Check all start and end dates
• Understand and agree in advance to all landlord obligations and your obligations

2. Have I negotiated the best deal possible?
   Make sure you have a lease agreement that meets the needs and desires of all parties involved so that all expectations are realistic and can be met.
3. What are my capital expense obligations?
   Make sure you understand what the landlord defines as capital expenditures and what your obligations may be if there are needed upgrades or repairs to building structure, HVAC, plumbing etc.
4. Do I have the proper insurance necessary to protect myself and my business
   Most landlords will require some type of property insurance to protect your space, make sure you fully understand what all policies need to include and what those insurance costs might be to factor into your overall operating expenses.
5. Will I need a personal guarantee?
   Most landlords will not sign a lease unless you have a corporate or personal guarantee for the lease. But guarantees can potentially be negotiable. So please be sure to discuss all options with your broker.

When you lease commercial office space with Blue Ridge Realty, we will walk you through the entire process so you feel secure in your leasing decision.