Choosing the Right Office Space

Choosing an office space is a daunting task that requires plenty of research. The office you select needs to be one that will support your team and will allow your business to grow and thrive. We’ll help walk you through the top factors to consider when looking for a home for your business. Treat this article like a checklist and you’ll have the perfect office in no time!

1. Costs

   Any business owner or entrepreneur knows it’s important to know your budget and what you can afford. Before you move, you should have a clear idea of the amount of rent you can afford and start your search from there. However, there are more factors than just price to consider when looking at the cost of renting office space.

2. Demographics

   When considering where to locate your business, you should always consider what demographics your business would like to hit. Whether your clients or employees are young professionals, baby-boomers, or perhaps a certain group of businesses, consider if the area you’re looking at renting office space it makes sense for you and the business.

3. Convenience

   Convenience is a large factor to keep in mind for both employees and clients.If you want to be easily found by customers, ensure your business is in a high foot-traffic location, near major highways, or has good visibility to attract new customers.If you are located in a place that is inconvenient, you may find it harder to attract and retain employees as well. Commutes are a key consideration for many employees, and you may risk driving away good workers with a bad commute.

4. Amenities

   Your employees are a huge asset for your business and having the right amenities is key to attracting and retaining staff. Does your office need a shower? Is there a fitness center nearby? What kinds of lunch options are available in the area? Think about what will be important for your team and factor that into choosing your space.

5. Infrastructure

   Infrastructure needs are a very important consideration for new office spaces. The amount of space, the layout, and amenities in the local area are all things you need to take into account. Consider whether you would like an open floorplan environment versus private offices.Some other key infrastructure factors include technology, such as phone and internet, mail and delivery services, reception services, conference and meeting rooms, accessibility, kitchen and bathrooms, parking and transit.

6. Safety

   Just like looking for a house, you also need to consider the safety of your office space for your employees and customers. Check local crime data and talk to other local businesses in the area to get a feel of how often crimes like break-ins and vandalism occur in the area.When visiting the site, you also need to look for street lighting and the availability of parking. If the space you are looking at is a managed location, ask about the security arrangements.

7. Professional Image

   Your office is a big part of how you present your business to the world. It is also a marketing tool. Your place of business can be a fantastic branding opportunity. Ask yourself if and how you want to customize or brand the office space. Try to see the office space from your clients’ eyes to get a better feel of the brand you are portraying.

8. Growth

   Immediate needs must be considered, but growth and other factors that change over time should be contemplated as well. Ensure your office space has enough room for growth. If you need a smaller office at first, but you plan to grow in the future, a shorter lease term may be better.

9. Lease

   Ensuring a clear lease is important before you sign on the dotted line. You need to make sure all provisions are spelled out in the lease, don’t just take the landlord’s word for it. If something occurs and you need to break your lease, make sure you know how to do so and the fees and penalties you will incur prior to signing the lease.

10. Zoning

    Before you sign a lease for a new office, check zoning laws and city regulations. Some cities have strict zoning laws and you need to make sure your business is legally allowed to operate in the location you’re considering.

Are you a business or entrepreneur looking to rent an office space? Email us at info@EpiCity.com or call us at (770) 457-2300. EpiCity is the South’s most experienced and respected real estate firm since 1935.