Finding the right
retail location for your business can be a daunting task. There are many
different elements to take into consideration, including location, size and
various amenities. On top of this, you’ll also want to consult with a real
estate broker and anattorney to negotiate the best lease terms.
Here are the steps you
should take to find the perfect retail space for you and your business.
1. Determine the Type
of Space You Need
Before you contact a
commercial real estate broker or even begin searching on your own, you want to
have a clear idea of what type of space you want. Besides the specific needs of
your business that might include a checkout station, dressing rooms or even a
kitchen, here are some other factors to take into consideration:
a. Location: The neighborhood you choose
can be key to your business’ success.
b. Traffic: Besides traffic patterns,
you’ll also want to analyze foot traffic and ease of access to your location.
c. Size: Make sure you know how much space
you need. Take into account your current and future needs so that you can grow
within the space.
d. Budget: Have a good idea of what you
can afford, and make sure that the type of space you want fits within that
budget.
e. Utilities: Depending on your type of
business, a lease that includes your water or electricity bill could tip the
balance when all other factors are equal.
f. Amenities: Review what type of special
options you might want to consider, including building amenities like security,
fire prevention and parking.
2. Find a Commercial
Real Estate Broker
You can search on your
own, but real estate brokers often have access to listings that you don’t.
Plus, they’re typically very qualified negotiators with a track record of
negotiating rental agreements and lease terms with landlords that are very
beneficial to the renter.
To find a commercial
real estate broker, you can ask local business owners for recommendations. You
can also search the National Association of Realtors or your state’s realtor
association for agents that specialize in commercial real estate. Other
commercial sites like CityFeet and CIMLS also offer listings and local broker
directories.
3. Search on Your Own
You can conduct your
own online search using LoopNet, which is free to the public, but other sites
like MLS and CoStar are only open to commercial real estate brokers, which is
another reason to work with one.
Another option is to
go out in your local area and search for any posted signs for available spaces.
You can call and speak with the landlord or agent directly to find out more
information. However, it’s recommended that you work with a broker or attorney
when negotiating the lease, unless you are an outstanding negotiator and have
experience closing deals.
4. Scout the Space
Once your real estate
agent has delivered a list of possibilities, make sure you tour each of the
spaces, keeping a careful eye on the amenities you’re looking for. In reality,
looking for a commercial space is really not that different from looking for a
residential one. You want to be sure you’re in a good neighborhood with easy
access to the area, curb appeal and good traffic patterns, and this all needs
to fit within your budget. You also want to be sure the space is the right size
and fit for your business.
5. Negotiate the Terms
of the Lease and Special Features
When it comes time to
sign on the dotted line, make sure that you’ve negotiated the best possible
rate for your space. One way to ensure this is to work with an attorney who
specializes in commercial real estate, can review the lease for any potential
pitfalls and make sure that you are protected when the lease comes to a close.
To find a real estate attorney, you can ask other local business owners for a
recommendation, or you can ask your real estate broker for a referral if you
have a good relationship with him or her.
Your retail space will
be the visual representation of your business and is therefore a very important
piece to your success. By working closely with a professional real estate
broker—one that can develop a list of features and amenities you need and
negotiate the best possible lease—you can move into a space that’ll work for
both you and your company for years to come.
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