Posted on

The Great Debate: Should You Use an Open Office Layout?

The majority of companies in the United States use open office layouts. Whether that design includes communal work tables or low-partition workstations, these offices are a far cry from the partitioned offices of the past.

“Silicon Valley firms were among the first to champion open workspaces, where employees sit shoulder to shoulder at communal desks,” explains an office design analysis in Forbes. “They tore down walls and eliminated private offices as outdated symbols of corporate hierarchy. An open layout seemed to convey a modern, break-all-the-rules attitude. It also provided a stark contrast to the soulless cubicle farms skewered by Dilbert comics and films like Office Space.”

The Benefits of an Open Office

It’s understandable why many businesses have embraced the open office layout. With walls and other partitions removed, it’s easier for your employees to connect. Better collaboration is often the objective, which makes sense from a practical standpoint. When you can look over to a colleague’s desk and immediately see that he’s sitting there, it seems you’d be more likely to stroll over for a conversation.

“It really creates an environment where people can collaborate; they can innovate together,” said Lori Goler, chief people officer at Facebook, which is known for promoting open office concepts. “There’s a lot of spontaneity in the way people bump into each other, just a really fun collaborative creative space.”

In conjunction with the collaboration, many businesses employ an open office in hopes that it will increase socializing and improve employee morale. Traditional workplace designs run the risk of reinforcing hierarchies, with corner offices for the elite, modest offices for the leaders, and cubicles for the working drones. By leveling the playing field, it’s easy to see how an office could become more cohesive.

Additionally, open offices are more cost-effective. They allow you to fit more people into a smaller space, with less furniture required. This savings makes open offices compelling for small businesses operating on tighter budgets.

The Drawbacks of an Open Office

Once you know the desired benefits of an open office, it’s important to review their effectiveness in practice. Many employees actually report issues with such layouts, ranging from obnoxiously loud coworkers to stinky lunches being eaten much too close for comfort.

Researchers from the Harvard Business School conducted what is widely considered the preeminent analysis of open offices. They traced employee movements with electronic badges, recorded office conversations with microphones, and kept tabs on interoffice email usage.

The result? The open offices in the study did not achieve the collaboration hoped for. Instead, face-to-face interactions plummeted by 70%. Conversely, email use went up 50%. It appeared that the extreme openness of the layout led to employee withdrawal. The only way to cope was less personal interaction.

“I don’t know that I had a clear hypothesis about this research question at the start,” explains the study’s coauthor, Associate Professor Ethan Bernstein. “You hear so much said about how much people don’t like open offices, but there’s also so much said about the vibrancy of an environment when you open space and data up, about the collisions and interactions that will happen there. For me, the promise of open offices was at least as compelling as the traps. Would everyone bustle with productive collisions or simply put their big headphones on and become numb to the space?”

It seems that Professor Bernstein’s theories regarding the inherent traps associated with open offices are legitimate. Participants in the studies did tend to put on headphones, hunch toward their computers, and try to block everything else out. Not only was this an effort to eliminate abundant distractions, but workers also felt the need to look busy all the time because they were in full view of their leaders and coworkers.

What Office Layout Should You Use?

While the Harvard Business School research exposed potential problems associated with the open office layout, these findings don’t mean it’s necessarily a bad option for your small business. Every office includes unique individuals who interact in dynamic ways.

If you’re wondering what layout would work best for your office, here are some considerations:

What do your people want?

You may have your ideas about what the office needs, but always make sure  your employees have a voice. After all, the quickest way to hurt morale is to impose major changes without using the type of collaboration your office layout would hope to spur.

How can you improve interaction?

Even if an open layout isn’t the best fit for your business, perhaps you can incorporate some of the positive elements. You can start by improving the socializing in your office by simply scheduling more opportunities for your people to get together.

Are you using sound masking?

If you have an open office concept and noise is an issue, you need to implement some form of sound masking. White noise helps minimize distracting conversations and sounds. The result can be happier, more productive people.

How flexible are things for your employees?

You can also reduce distractions and frustration among your people by offering increased flexibility. At the most basic level, you may let them customize their schedules (such as coming in earlier in the morning to get more unfettered work time). You can also think about letting them work a 4/10 schedule or even work from home once a week.

Whether you think cubicles are essential or can’t wait to make your office as open as an African savanna, it’s important to keep your people top of mind. What will help them feel most connected? What will help them be most productive? What will help them be most happy? Answer these questions first and your own business priorities will ultimately be served.

Posted on

Need to Break Your Commercial Lease? Here’s Everything You Need to Know

Committing to a long-term agreement like a commercial lease is a potentially frightening proposition as a business owner – especially if you’re just getting started. But even more uncertain than the lengthy duration of a commercial lease agreement is the possibility that you may need to leave the agreement early. Whether it’s due to insolvency or (hopefully) the need to expand your team beyond the space’s capability, breaking a commercial lease agreement can be a complicated – and expensive – proposition for any company.

Depending on the wording in your commercial lease agreement, you may be on the hook for the remainder of the lease term as well as any applicable penalties and fees. 

Why Would a Company Need to Break a Commercial Lease Early?

Hopefully, the primary reason a company would need to break their commercial lease is to expand into a larger space in order to accommodate unexpected growth. The other (unfortunate) side of the coin is insolvency, bankruptcy, or closure of your business. While there’s wiggle room in between for unique circumstances, these two scenarios are the most common. 

How to Save Money Breaking a Commercial Lease

There are ways to save money on the remainder of your commercial real estate lease agreement. The most common is to locate a subletter, allowing another tenant to take custody of the property for the remainder of the lease under the same terms. However, that leaves you ultimately responsible for any damage to the property until the conclusion of the lease and typically need to be approved by the landlord.  

The potential for locating a subletter depends on market conditions, the landlord’s willingness to approve a subletter, and the wording in your original lease agreement. 

Depending on the language contained within the lease agreement, you may not have the option to sublease the space at all. More moderate terms are common, allowing tenants to sublet the space at the landlord’s approval and at their discretion. Others strictly prohibit any form of assignment or subleasing whatsoever, making the issue more difficult for those seeking to end their lease. 

As we’ve discussed in more depth and detail, subletting a commercial real estate space allows you to reassign the financial responsibilities associated with the lease until its conclusion, but typically leaves the original leasee (you) responsible for any damages to the property until the original term is complete. But, on the other hand, if you find a reputable subletter who will pay their rent on time, care for the space, and has the intent to sign a new lease when your original term is done, it can be a huge financial boon for your business – especially if you’re moving into a larger, presumably more expensive, space. 

How to Negotiate a Lease Agreement with Easier Termination Terms

Having a tenant representative broker on your side during the initial lease negotiation process will help you lay out any “must-haves” on your end of the bargain, helping you with early termination penalty clauses and options for buy-outs within a certain timeframe. Landlords, especially in down markets, will want to provide themselves enough time to make necessary repairs and list the property on the market before your exit, so having language in place for early exit notification and stipulations on penalties will typically be the best outcome you can get in this situation.

However, in places with booming commercial real estate markets, landlords may be willing to negotiate on an amendment to the lease agreement to leave early with more favorable terms. The bottom line: if the landlord can secure another tenant at higher monthly rates within the timeframe, you may be able to break your lease with minimal penalty. 

The other factor where a tenant rep broker would be an asset in negotiating for subletting or assignment, therefore allowing you (with the landlord’s approval) to pass along the remaining term of your lease to a third-party. In most cases, you’d be ultimately responsible for the original security deposit and their monthly rent, but would require them to pay you the monthly rent until the lease expires. It’s a more convoluted process than many landlords are willing to accept, but if you have leverage during the initial lease negotiation, you may be able to afford yourself this valuable early exit strategy should the need arise. 

How to Protect Yourself Against the Possibility of Breaking Your Lease Early

Aside from the aforementioned legalese and negotiations, businesses wishing to protect themselves against the possibility of terminating their lease early can do the following:

  • Be realistic: Does your company need this much additional square footage? Will you reasonably grow at the same pace you expect from your business plan at the time of signing? Are market conditions moving in the right direction to invest in a long-term commercial lease agreement, or are you being overly optimistic? You need to ask yourself – and your team – these important questions before making such a substantial investment in a commercial real estate lease and lock yourself in for the duration. 
  • Perform a third-party business audit: As a business owner, you’re constantly looking at the numbers. With a boost of success, it’s normal to feel validity in your achievement, but you can also get rose colored glasses. Before you make a substantial investment in a long-term commercial real estate lease agreement, consult with a business analyst or financial advisor to make sure you’re approaching this next step with the best data possible. 
  • Find office space with room for growth – or retraction: While some spaces may not be glossy or glamorous, they could provide room for your company to expand or retract with an amendment to the lease agreement as needed. Making a moderate expansion in a new space is ideal, but if you’re uncertain about the future prospects of your company, then you should find a space that can accommodate a modular office concept should the need arise. 
  • Be flexible with a smaller space: Even if you’re bursting at the seams at your existing space, moving to a slightly larger or otherwise more suitable facility on a shorter-term lease agreement could be beneficial as your company grows. While space for additional employees could be a struggle, alternative working solutions like rotating work-from-home days, remote workers, and a monthly rental for shared coworking spaces for your employees could mitigate these stresses and keep everyone productive. 

As with any business agreement, you’ll want to ensure all your bases are covered before you approach your landlord with a request to break your lease agreement early. Depending on your history, duration of tenancy, and market conditions, the property owner may be more willing to allow you to end your lease agreement earlier than anticipated. Be sure to give them plenty of time as a notice and consult with your tenant representative broker to ensure the process goes as smoothly as possible for both sides.

Posted on

10 Considerations When Shopping for a Commercial Mortgage

The primary purpose of a commercial mortgage is to help small business owners add “property owner” to their titles. This accomplishment is worthwhile, as it negates the need for you to pay rent to someone else. As a wise person once said, “Paying rent is like throwing your dollars into a bottomless void.”

When you own a property, your payments build in a way that gives you positive options in the future. You’ll have more control of the property, build your retirement portfolio, and create the opportunity to collect rent from others.

A commercial mortgage can be used for many kinds of property, including warehouses, offices, apartment complexes, stores, and restaurants. And the scope extends beyond just purchasing a property. You can also use this type of financing for new construction, renovating an outdated structure, removing yourself from a lease, or refinancing for a better repayment term.

Regardless of the details, these projects typically require financing that can help you convert your equity into cash.

“Commercial real estate isn’t cheap,” say the entrepreneurial experts from Small Biz Rising. “If you’re a small business owner who’s considering buying or further developing commercial real estate—whether that’s an office building, a shopping center, a hotel, or another business-related property—odds are you’ll need to secure financing from an outside lender. In most scenarios, that usually means applying for a commercial mortgage loan.”

In the financing world, there’s a spectrum of difficulty when it comes to qualifying for and obtaining various loan products. The good news is that commercial mortgages fall on the easier side of things. While SBA loans require piles of paperwork and have strict requirements, a commercial mortgage is a much smoother ride.

One of the main reasons for this ease is that you will secure the loan by using the property as collateral. As long as the property’s value appraises for a sufficient amount, you’ll bypass some of the hurdles associated with typical loans.

However, a commercial mortgage isn’t always a sure thing. Small business loans are always competitive, with lenders looking at a variety of factors before making approval decisions. What’s important is that you provide all the relevant documents, including property blueprints, purchase contracts, scope of work analysis, project budget, and a property market analysis.

Beyond the nuts and bolts of the real estate project, your finances will play a role in the approval decision. So don’t put too much emphasis on the property and lose track of the business side of the equation.

“You’ll need to gather an assortment of documents, including current business and personal tax returns, business-related financial records, personal and business credit score information, bank statements for personal and business accounts, asset and liability statements, profiles of business partners and directors, business plans, and possibly more, depending on the lender,” says Small Biz Rising.

While we’re on the topic of what you need for a commercial mortgage, here are 10 more considerations. Some are major details and others are fairly minor, but they combine to make your application more desirable to a lender.

These loans are big.

Real estate isn’t cheap, so your commercial mortgage will pack a punch. At their smallest, you’ll find amounts around $250,000. But the maximum can go up to $5,000,000 to fund larger projects.

Interest rates are favorable.

With your property serving as collateral to secure the loan, lenders will often feel comfortable offering you interest rates as low as 4.25%.

Repayment terms are also favorable.

Real estate projects are rarely quick. Luckily, neither are the repayment terms. Don’t be surprised to find terms extending up to 25 years.

Your plan can really open doors.

Business plans are always important when seeking financing, but they take on a whole new level of importance with commercial mortgages. Take the time to make sure yours clearly demonstrates your expertise and investment in the project.

Being an owner means added responsibility.

Remember that owning property means you’re responsible for the maintenance. And as sure as the sun will rise, issues will arise. It’s wise to account for upkeep expenses as you budget for your project.

Your business structure matters.

Sole proprietorships can be a solid structure for a business, but not when you’re seeking a commercial mortgage. It’s best for you to form a business with limited liability, such as a limited partnership, LLC, S, or C corporation.

Your past transactions are relevant.

Lenders will look beyond the real estate project to assess how likely you are to fulfill your repayment obligations. Plan on them evaluating your personal finances.

You need to be the majority in the property.

While commercial mortgages are versatile, they still have their limits. For example, you will need to occupy the majority of the building in order to qualify. Even occupying 50% isn’t enough.

Pay attention to the LTV.

Lenders will want you to put up a substantial amount in conjunction with any loan. A common range for the maximum loan-to-value ratio is 65-75%.

These loans can move slowly.

It’s true that commercial mortgage applications are easier than many other types of financing, but that doesn’t mean it’s always a walk in the park. In some cases, it can take a few months for one of these loans to fund.

Construction projects often boil down to a vast array of details. When you pay attention to the nuances and carefully manage your operations, you set yourself up for sustainable success.

On the other hand, if you neglect the smaller aspects of your project, the consequences can be swift. For this reason, take the time up front to organize yourself before you begin any applications. By getting your house in order first, you’ll be in a prime position to smoothly navigate the application process that follows.

Most importantly, this preparation and organization will shine through in your application. And robust business plans and comprehensive applications are proven to work wonders as lenders make their approval decisions.

Posted on

Should You Buy or Lease Commercial Real Estate Space?

If you’ve already established a successful business and are looking to expand your available space, you’ve got a couple of options to consider: buying or leasing commercial real estate. 

There are benefits and downsides of each and carefully investigating aspects of both is your best way to make an informed decision. 

When to Consider When Leasing Commercial Real Estate

If you’re taking your next step in business growth or just got your first round of financing and looking to expand, a commercial real estate lease is probably your best option. Not only are landlords and property owners less strict about financials and business history than financial lenders, you don’t want to get stuck in a 30 year mortgage payment if your company doesn’t survive a sudden market shift, economic downturn, or other insolvency situation.

Most commercial lease agreements range between 3-10 years depending on the real estate market in your area, so your business analysis and growth potential should be mapped out to at least the ten year mark before approaching a property for lease.

When You Should Consider Buying Commercial Real Estate

You’ve built a business, shown consistent growth, and have plenty of cash on hand, but your current space isn’t doing what it needs to do for future growth. Now is the time to consider purchasing a permanent location for your company. 

Especially if you’re in an industry with specific requirements for space to accommodate specialized equipment or handle heavy warehousing and shipping, purchasing or building on land you own could be the better option in the long-term. But these types of purchases require more significant planning, preparation, and savings in order to justify in the eyes of a financial lender. 

Banks want to ensure that their investment will pay off and that your company will be in business long enough to see the loan through to completion. 

Pros and Cons of Buying vs. Leasing Commercial Real Estate

Benefits of Buying Commercial Real Estate

Equity

As with any real estate transaction, the owner of the property will benefit from any increase in value according to market conditions – and that means equity, or perceived value, from lenders. 

Should your company need an urgent cash flow increase, you may be able to use the equity in your commercial property as collateral against a business loan or mortgage. This isn’t possible if you’re leasing a commercial property and will limit your ability to grow or adjust as market conditions change, so if you’re able and ready to purchase a space, you’ll have a greater financial advantage moving forward. 

Assets and Collateral

Having a commercial real estate property on your real estate portfolio is a nice boon – as long as the property appreciates. 

Potential for Rent and Additional Income

Most companies that purchase commercial real estate occupy at least 51% of the property, renting the remaining space out to other companies and tenants. While the additional income potential is obvious, you’ll also be acting as the landlord for each additional tenant unless you hire a property management company, but that will cut into your profit margins. 

Tax Benefits

When owning your own property, you can calculate your pax benefits by deducting interest expenses, any depreciation expenses, and anything you pay toward the property outside of the monthly mortgage payment. But compared to commercial real estate leases, where you can deduct the entirety of the monthly rent payment, you can’t deduct mortgage payments. 

Complete Control Over the Property

While landlords can dictate (within certain terms) the amount of monthly rent increases you’ll pay, having a fixed mortgage loan payment means you’ll be able to budget the exact same payment number every month for the length of the loan. Furthermore (and perhaps more importantly), you’ll be able to change any features, make upgrades, or simply add a new coat of paint to the property without asking permission. 

Downsides of Buying Commercial Real Estate

Increased Upfront Financial Requirements

Compared to leasing a commercial property, you’ll need to invest substantially more in upfront costs when purchasing a space. Because of the nature of the loan, lenders require a down payment and/or collateral against the loan. This typically consists of 10-20% of the loan, but depending on your credit, you may need to provide even more upfront. Additional costs include any due diligence you need to perform before the sale goes forward and closing costs when you complete the transaction. 

Liability

As the property owner, you’ll be responsible for the health and safety of the people inside it as well as dealing with the repairs and maintenance of the space. And if you decide to rent any portion of the property to other tenants, you’ll be liable for their actions, making additional insurance policies an must-have financial burden. 

Risk of Market Depreciation

While investing in real estate is typically a smart move, getting locked into a mortgage and then having the market go south can be a painful pill to swallow – especially if your lender is unwilling to refinance your mortgage loan. And should a market adjustment affect your business and force you to sell the property, you’ll be on the hook for any loss in value incurred. 

Decreased Flexibility 

Compared to commercial lease agreements, which can last between 2-10 years or so, a mortgage on a commercial property can be between 15-30 years or more. With that kind of long-term commitment, it can be difficult to adjust to your company’s needs should you have to expand. 

Benefits of Leasing Commercial Real Estate

Increased Liquidity and Fewer Financial Requirements

There’s significantly lower financial requirements when leasing commercial real estate than attempting to buy a property. You’ll need some cash on hand for inspections, attorney’s fees, and whatever deposits the landlord requires, but ultimately, your credit and financial requirements will be much more lax compared to applying for a mortgage loan on a commercial property. 

Tax Benefits

Just as with purchasing commercial real estate, you’ll have tax benefits associated with leasing a space. 

When calculating your taxes, you’ll be able to factor in:

  • Monthly lease payments
  • Contributions to property taxes and insurance
  • Utilities and maintenance costs factored into your lease agreement

However, unlike purchasing a property, you’ll be able to deduct the entirety of your lease payment when calculating your taxes. That means more savings overall than you’d see if you owned the property. 

Increased Flexibility 

For a medium-term lease agreement (5-10 years), you’ll have greater flexibility in changing to a smaller or larger space should your company’s needs demand it. When compared to purchasing a space outright, you’ll be able to adjust your needs more quickly than being locked into the same property for a 30+ year mortgage. 

Downsides of Leasing Commercial Real Estate

No Equity or Real Estate Investment Opportunity

Because you won’t own the space in which you occupy, you won’t recoup any money on a sale should the market value increase during your occupancy. Any money you put toward a monthly payment won’t ultimately benefit you in the long-run. 

Higher Monthly Payments

Depending on your lease agreement, you may be contributing to property taxes, insurance, and utility costs your landlord passes along to you. Plus, if property taxes increase alongside your monthly rent after the first year (again, depending on the terms of your lease), you’ll be paying more than a monthly mortgage loan payment on a comparable – or better – property. 

Decreased Control 

If you choose to lease a space, you’ll be at the whims of the landlord as to any changes or alterations you might need to make your business more comfortable and successful. Furthermore, there’s the common practice of annual escalations, which say the landlord may increase your monthly rent up to a certain amount each year, making it difficult to budget appropriately. 

What to Ask Yourself About Buying or Leasing Commercial Real Estate Space

Whether you’re planning to purchase or lease commercial real estate, you’ll want to consult with a tenant representation broker to help guide your search and help with the negotiation process. And while you may need to take out a line of credit or business development loan to secure a commercial lease agreement, it’s a different beast to apply for a commercial real estate mortgage. For that, you’ll need a longer business history, more detailed business planning, tax and financial statements for several years, and a substantial down payment and/or collateral in order to secure the mortgage. 

As with any substantial business decision, you’ll want to do a cost/benefit analysis before you make your choice. But between leasing and buying commercial real estate, you’ll also want to consider the following:

  • The current size of your company
  • Current space limitations (and how it hinders future growth)
  • Average monthly cash flow
  • Financial capital and lending potential
  • Availability of space in your area

When you’re considering the potential pros and cons for either leasing or buying commercial real estate, the number one determining factor should usually be costs. But you’ll also want to consult with a commercial real estate broker, lawyer, mortgage adviser, and an accountant before making a decision one way or the other. 

Posted on

The Best Time to Start Looking for Office Space

As exciting as looking for new office space can be, it’s also a daunting undertaking. Whether you’re looking for your first permanent office space or hoping to expand, the process is very similar. Aside from the logistics of actually relocating, ensuring continuity of business, and finalizing the lease negotiations, you’ll need to take one crucial factor into consideration: timing. 

The best time to start looking for office space is hugely dependent on your own situation. Real estate brokers and landlords alike will be pushing to close a deal as soon as possible, but remember one thing: you know your business better than anyone else. There’s a certain level of gut feeling that goes into making such a substantial investment. With this guide, you’ll be better equipped to determine when you should begin looking into additional office space and establish a foundation for your company’s future.

When’s the Right Time to Begin Looking for Office Space?

The common consensus in seeking new office space is this: you can’t start early enough. Most commercial real estate transactions take several months and involve a bevy of professionals. From building inspectors, local permitting, real estate brokers, and contractors, you’ll likely be waiting to move into a new space at least 3-6 months after you’ve signed a lease. 

Even if your company isn’t quite ready to move into a new space, your sales and growth projections should show exactly when you’ll be outgrowing your current space. Utilizing those figures, you’ll have a clearer picture as to when is the right time to move locations – but that should include the search process. Once you’ve hit your goals and have reasonable growth projections nailed down, you’ll want to start looking for new office space right away. 

Of course, your company’s finances will determine just how much you can afford, so before you begin your commercial real estate search, it’s important to reduce any financial liabilities on your books. That could include business or personal debts, loans, or lines of credit tied to your company and its stakeholders. 

In order to get a clearer picture as to your company’s ability to lease a new property, you’ll want to employ a business analyst, a tenant rep broker, and a real estate attorney to help you negotiate a lease agreement in the future. As for your company’s participation, the best plan of attack is to designate a small committee to begin searching for a new property about a year from a desired move-in date (ideally, this would closely coincide with the termination of your existing lease agreement). Set a criteria: desired square footage, budget, lease term, amenities, nice-to-have features, and essential components for your next space. 

How to Reduce the Length of the Search Process

While it’s easier than ever to find suitable commercial real estate spaces, the biggest deterrent to a speedy transition is the lease negotiation process. That’s why it’s so important to make your company as attractive as possible to prospective landlords. That means getting pre-approved for business loans, establishing your needs and priorities when it comes to a particular space, and showing a willingness to move quickly in order to get a deal done.

Moving quickly requires expertise, and a tenant representative broker has exactly that. With their experience in the market, relationships with other landlords, and savvy with the transaction process, they should be able to take your lead and get a deal done fast – to your ultimate benefit. 

However, an eager potential tenant could demonstrate desperation in the eyes of a landlord and could hurt you in the negotiation process. It’s a tricky tightrope, but having several options available to you throughout the negotiations will help with leverage and provide a fallback in case things go south with one option. 

What to Keep in Mind While You Look for New Space

There’s no way to tell exactly what your company needs without knowing the nature of your business and your culture. That’s why it’s so important to bring in your internal team for the search process. Creating a search committee within your existing organization won’t just be a great asset for you when looking for a new property, but it will create a sense of inclusion in finding your next home. 

Aside from the personnel considerations, you’ll want to consider each property based on your needs. If you simply need an office space, determine what priorities you’d like to set to improve conditions for your team and make the best use of the available – and hopefully – larger space. 

If you’re operating in a specialized industry, look for opportunities in the vacant space to improve and upgrade to best suit your needs. Obviously, if you’re working in manufacturing, you’ll want space to install equipment and store your products. But the best option is to go with your gut: does the space feel right? Can you envision working here for several years? Is there room for expansion and growth? These factors don’t always make it on the commercial lease agreement terms, but you’ll know the right spot when you find it. After all, you know your business better than anyone else. 

How to Deal with Your Existing Landlord

During your search process, you’ll want to consult your existing lease agreement: does it contain any language about assignments? What about subleasing? Either terms contained within your lease agreement may contain restrictions about your ability to lease your existing space early. However, if there’s no language about subleasing or assignments, you’re welcome to do either at your discretion – but this is rare. Landlords want to control the quality of the tenants occupying their space; others will flatly reject a tenant’s ability to assign or sublet a rented space. In some lease agreements, landlords will permit subleasing with their consent and approval. If you have a good existing relationship with your landlord and have found a subtenant that would suit their needs, you shouldn’t have a problem. Otherwise, you may be on the hook for early termination penalties should you vacate the property prematurely. 

You’ll also need to provide your landlord with a written notice of your move (usually 30 days in advance and by certified mail). The notice should include the following:

  • Today’s date
  • Name of landlord
  • Property address
  • Notice of intent to vacate and at which date
  • A forwarding address 
  • Signature of tenant

Your landlord will likely reply by mail or email and discuss next steps. Be aware that they’ll want to put the property on the market as soon as possible and begin showing the space to potential tenants. 

Ensuring a Smooth Transition to a New Office Space

If you’ve never relocated to a new office before, you should know one thing: starting early is your easiest way to avoid headaches. Planning, searching, making decisions, and finally executing the plan could take over a year – and that’s generous for small-to-medium sized businesses. 

The most important part of initiating an office move is to communicate clearly and honestly with your team. Not only will this move affect their workspace, it’ll impact their commute and daily routine, so the more notice you give, the more excited they’ll be about a shiny new office.

You’ll need help dealing with the nitty gritty details of the new space, so enlist some of the more excited employees to help manage seating arrangements, purchasing of new furniture, equipment, and decor, and to inventory existing possessions that may be obsolete or unneeded in the new space. 

You’ll also want to ensure everything is packed, moved, and unpacked according to your needs once you get to the new office. Because continuity of business is key, having someone there to supervise the movers and ensure everything is setup correctly for day one will help avoid a painful first day. Getting necessary infrastructure like internet, phones, and cable connected before the move-in date goes without saying. 

Lastly, looking back at the old space, hiring a professional cleaning service will help once you’ve cleared out your equipment and furniture. Any unneeded or unwanted furniture should be donated, recycled, or sold at warehouse auction – and you’ll need someone to help organize that, too. 

Once you’ve settled in, completed your months-long journey and started a new one, don’t forget the small stuff: your employees will want to celebrate – and so should you.

Posted on

Things to Consider When Choosing a Location for Your Commercial Space

Whether you’re opening your first public location or expanding to a new one, business owners tend to get more excited about finding a shiny new commercial space than they are determining whether it’s a viable one. But your company’s image and success are as tied to the right location as they are the quality of your services, making the search for the right space a critical factor to commercial viability. 

It goes without saying that many business mistakes or shortcomings can be corrected after the fact, but a bad location is something that’s nearly impossible to correct. That’s why it’s so important to consider the location of a potential new space above all else. Here’s what to look for as you begin your search:

What to Consider When Looking for a New Space

There’s a laundry list of things to look out for when searching for new commercial real estate, but before we break down the specific needs for offices, retail, and industrial space, let’s look at the basic, barebones factors you’ll want to watch out for when starting your search:

Budget – You’ll want to set a fixed budget range to avoid overspending. You’ll want to incorporate taxes, monthly utilities, costs of renovations, upkeep, and any new equipment or furniture you’ll need to make yourself at home.

Available space – Moving to a new office usually means expansion, but you don’t want too much space – or too little. That’s why your space requirements should be measured against your projected business growth over the course of the lease term. Plan to add 150-200 square feet per each future hire in an office or industrial space in addition to any equipment you’ll want to install.

Aesthetics – If you want your business positioned among high-visibility brands, you’ll want to look for space in downtown or business districts. Stores, restaurants, and personal services should aim for street-level properties or space in established shopping structures. 

Competition – Obviously, you don’t want to oversaturate the area with similar services. Opening a coffee shop next door to another coffee shop probably won’t be a successful endeavor, so do your research on companies within walking distance of your desired location before you commit. 

Opportunity for Growth – Especially important for office and industrial spaces, you’ll want to consider the ability for expansion within the building in the event that your company expands much faster than expected. While that’s certainly the ideal situation for any business, it can be a significant headache if you need to break your lease too early and relocate once again if the neighboring space isn’t available. 

Access – Parking is a major issue no matter the industry you’re in. Retail and restaurants need parking for customers, offices need space for clients and employees, and industrial firms require ample space for shipping, delivery, and storage. 

Zoning – Depending on your local zoning laws, an ideal location and space may not be zoned for your specific use. Do your homework into the available zoning designations for the space and your ability to rezone the property to meet your needs if possible. 

Offices

Accessibility – If you’re serving clients, you’ll want to ensure they have access to parking so they can come visit your office without a hassle. But even more crucially, having a location that’s convenient for your employees to commute to work can help motivate your team and help boost productivity. Check for parking, walkability, and access to public transit when looking for a new location. 

Amenities – Studies show that employee productivity increases when workers have access to sunlight, inspiring views, fresh air, and appealing lighting. While these can come with a higher price, sticking your growing business in a basement might not be the best long-term solution for improvement or retention. Secondarily, things like onsite fitness centers, cafes, and daycare facilities will help attract and retain talent. 

Infrastructure – If you’re a company that relies on high speed internet, you’ll want to look for a building wired and serviced for fiber or gigabit internet. Depending on the location, this might not be possible, but as you expand and grow, so will your needs. Ask the property owner about the building’s capabilities and investigate what internet service providers (ISPs) are available in the area. 

Proximity – Being close to thriving shops, restaurants, and bars shows that your company is operating in a growing environment – and it helps with employee morale.

Growth potential – Every office move is (hopefully) an expansion, but if you take on a larger than expected client that requires a greater headcount than you anticipated, you’ll want to make sure that the building has the capability to offer additional space should you need it. 

Retail

Demographics – Obviously, you’ll want to be where your customers are. And while location factors greatly into this (you probably shouldn’t open a dollar store in a boutique shopping mall), it’s also the breakdown of who lives, works, and visits the neighborhood in which you’re setting up shop. These can be hard to quantify, but doing some reverse-engineering on what other businesses see in a location can give you a good perspective. 

Accessibility – Ample parking, easy walkability, and access to public transit are important factors for retail spaces, no matter the city. This shouldn’t be a problem in suburban shopping malls, but dense urban areas are prime for renovation and construction, which could put a damper on a fledgling new business, so do your research on your city’s future planning before making a commitment. 

Visibility – Every company wants to be known to potential customers, but retailers need to be seen. Street-level properties provide opportunities for flashy signage, sandwich boards, and flyers, but if you’re tucked away in an industrial office mall, it’ll be harder to attract anyone but your most loyal of customers. 

Industrial

Space – And lots of it. Any industrial space will need ample room for parking, shipping, and logistics, but growth should also be a consideration. Overspending on industrial space may not sound like a good investment now, but having unused space as your company grows will only lessen your headaches in the future. 

Access – If you’re dependent on your supplies and products moving in and out of your facility on a regular, consistent basis, you don’t want your vehicles stuck in snarling downtown traffic. Finding industrial space along major highways or with easy access to interstates and airports will alleviate your supply chain woes. 

Security – Look around the area – are there lots of vacancies, or is the street full of other industrial companies? Are there chain link fences and barbed wire around some properties? How’s the lighting along the road? Industrial areas are prime targets for criminals, especially if they’re deemed insecure. Check your local crime stats for the area and ask the landlord about the security features at the facility. 

What Tenants Should Ask Property Owners

We’ve covered this topic fairly extensively in the past, so we’ll keep it brief:

  1. 1. What’s the length and type of the lease?
  2. 2. What utilities and additional costs are included in the monthly rent?
  3. 3. Is the lease assignable? Renewable?
  4. 4. What happens if the building is sold?
  5. 5. Has the space been updated in the recent past?

Top Tips for Finding the Perfect New Location

1. Enlist Help

Outside of an internal search committee to help offset some of the stress that comes with a new location hunt, a tenant representation broker and a real estate attorney will help you identify appropriate locations and avoid pitfalls that come with the search. Since they’ll already have relationships and experience in the market, you could gain valuable insights you can’t find online. 

2. Take Your Time – and Don’t Jump at the First Offer

Changing a business location takes a lot of time. Expect the process to take at least 12 months from the time you begin looking. Even if you’re staring down the barrel at a lease agreement expiration, taking your time to ensure you’re finding the right location for your needs will save you from disappointment in the future. 

3. Keep Your Options Open

Especially important during the lease negotiation process, you’ll want to have 3 or 4 other properties on your “probably” list in case your first choice doesn’t pan out. That way, you won’t be beholden to a stubborn property owner and have a fallback option if they’re unwilling to meet your needs. 

4. Speak with Previous Occupants and Neighboring Businesses

It’ll take some time, but doing your homework and tracking down the previous tenant can give you insights into the condition and viability of the space in question. It’ll also give you a look into the actual relationship between a tenant and the landlord. You should also contact neighboring businesses to see if they’re familiar with the property owner and get their opinions on the viability of the space for your specific business. 

Choosing a new commercial space is a complex and time-consuming task, but if you take your time, determine your priorities, do your research, and investigate all your options, you’ll be better prepared to make this important step for your company’s future. 

Posted on

Common Questions About The Cost of Opening a Restaurant

In the restaurant industry, there’s a common joke: “What’s the difference between opening a restaurant downtown and burning $1 million on the street?” Answer: none.

Despite the known upfront costs in starting a restaurant, one of the most common mistakes restaurateurs make is to underestimate the initial capital and budget requirements associated with starting a restaurant. 

While every business endeavor – restaurants included – are up to particulars and unique in their own way, we’ve expanded our previous guide to further break down the upfront costs and estimates related to starting a brand new restaurant. When combined with our other resources, this should better equip your company to prepare for the ups and downs associated with budgeting, equipment and build out, and dealing with a potential landlord.  

How Should I Calculate My Monthly Restaurant Rent?

The amount you’ll pay for restaurant space each month is dependent on the market, location, and specific terms you established with your landlord. The easiest way to predict properties that might be in your price range is to analyze the listing, check for the cost per square footage (which is pre-tax), then multiply that number by the square footage of the space listed.

Some landlords will establish different monthly rental terms based on length of lease, your finances, whether you have proven experience in the restaurant business, and the duration the property has been vacant. While these factors aren’t guaranteed, they’re useful leverage when starting a lease negotiation.

What Should I Expect to Spend on Equipment and Build Out?

The primary thing you’ll need to secure in order to start a restaurant is equipment. After all, it’s difficult to cook without a stove. A recent survey by the Restaurant Owners puts the average cost of building out a 1,000-square foot bar and kitchen with the proper gear and equipment at about $75,000, or $80 per square foot. 

Secondhand equipment is likely available, as other restaurants may have closed and need to offload their assets. But just because you’re getting a deal doesn’t mean you’re in the clear. You’ll want to hire an equipment technician to evaluate the equipment before you make a purchase. 

And as far as remodels, upgrades, and repairs are concerned, you’ll need to negotiate with your landlord. Who’s responsible for what? What happens if a larger issue is discovered during the build out? With the demand for architects, construction contractors, and subcontractors in major cities at an all-time high, it’s important to factor in the length and cost of these improvements. Simply installing a new floor in the restrooms could run you as high as $50 per square foot – if you’re lucky. 

How Should I Prepare for Cost Overruns and Delays?

According to the Restaurant Owner, the average restaurant remodel goes over estimates by about 34%. Anything from construction delays, permitting issues,  and contractor and subcontractor schedules can throw a wrench in your plans. Meanwhile, you’re still paying rent and likely have your top-level staff and management hired. Should delays continue, you may lose those you’ve trained to other jobs, which is why budgeting for a six-month rent and labor contingency is recommended to avoid further headaches. 

How much does it cost per square foot to build a restaurant?

Depending on the market and location, it’s estimated that the total investment in building a new restaurant (in addition to purchasing the land and associated soft costs) could range between $250,000-$2.5 million for square footage between 1,000-10,000 square feet.

For example, opening an Applebee’s franchise location requires significant total investment. In addition to the $35,000 franchise fee, it’s estimated that franchisees will need to invest between $1.97-$7.1 million. 

How much does building a commercial kitchen cost?

According to the Restaurant Owner’s survey, the average cost of equipping an existing 1,000 square foot bar and kitchen is about $75,000, or $80 per square foot. Building a commercial kitchen from scratch within an existing space, however, could run anywhere between $250-500 per square foot. This takes into account flooring, walls, lighting, ventilation, electrical connections, fire prevention measures, plumbing, gas connections, and equipment. 

How much does a restaurant remodel cost?

In order to renovate or remodel an entire restaurant (dining room, bar, and kitchen), you’ll want to budget $250-500 per square foot in the kitchen/back of house area and between $150-300 per square foot in public-facing areas. 

If you have a kitchen with 1,000 square feet and 2,500 square feet in the dining area for a total space of 3,500 square feet, you can expect to spend between $400,000 to $800,000 for a complete remodel. 

Depending on materials used, quality of finishes, and craftsmanship, you may be able to cut down costs – or send your budget through the roof. 

How Can I Save Money While Opening a Restaurant?

  1. Buy used equipment: This is one of the easiest ways to significantly cut down on initial expenses. Because the installation of a commercial exhaust hood alone could run into the tens of thousands, cutting down on the actual purchase is highly recommended. Chances are, if you’re moving into an existing restaurant space, the previous tenant will be willing to part with the already installed equipment. If not, look for auctions, restaurants going out of business, or local restaurant supply stores that buy and sell used kitchen equipment. 
  2. Cut corners where needed: You probably don’t need a full staff until 2-3 weeks before your soft open. Rather than keeping them waiting for your restaurant to open and risk losing them to more immediate opportunities, hold off on the initial orientation, training, and trial shifts until you’ve got your soft open dates secured. Furthermore, investing in high-quality menus, signage, and decor right off the bat might not be worthwhile until you’ve had an ample sample size of customer feedback. While it’s important to make a first impression, you won’t know what your customers think of your establishment until you’ve had a steady stream of repeat diners.
  3. Don’t jump on a full liquor license right away: Unless you’re going for a high-end cocktail bar, you can get by with a partial liquor license and serve beer and wine. Because full liquor licenses are often more expensive and time-consuming to secure, offering a full bar at the outset could delay your open date. 
  4. Invest in the important stuff first: High-quality tables and chairs, dining and glassware, and reliable point-of-sale systems will carry your business further than cheap, “it’ll do” solutions that can break down and require replacement. Plus, these elements are highly valued on the secondary market, so even if the restaurant closes, you’ll be able to recoup much of the initial investment. 
  5. Don’t splurge on advertising: While sales and marketing are crucial for getting the word out about your new restaurant, your best chance at earning repeat customers in your area is to keep them informed about your open date. Post flyers, keep your social media feeds current about your restaurant’s progress, and place a limited advertising run in local outlets or social media. You might also invite local media figures, business people, local politicians, social media influencers, and other restaurant professionals to an exclusive soft launch to spread the word and put your best foot forward ahead of a public opening. 

If you’re feeling lost in the dark as your dream restaurant project begins to take shape, you’re not alone. Every restaurateur needs help determining the value of a location, the content of their menus, and researching their prime demographic. But with this information in mind, you’ll be better equipped to handle the turbulent nature of the restaurant and culinary business no matter what city or market you’re hoping to operate in. 

Posted on

Best Practices to Inspect a Potential Commercial Real Estate Property

Whether you’re leasing or buying commercial real estate space, it’s a costly – and complicated – endeavor. And as with any long-term arrangement, it’s important to do your homework and protect your company’s best interests. That’s why a careful, thorough property inspection is an essential part of the transaction. By ruling out any potential problems and giving your company a better idea of the space’s limitations or requirements for repairs, a property inspection will weed out unsuitable options and help inform your lease negotiation process. 

While you can certainly inspect the property on your own, it’s always helpful to have a professional property inspector to give you an unbiased look at a potential space. Either way, there are plenty of strategies to inform yourself before you make a commitment.

What to Keep in Mind Prior to the Inspection

During the initial walkthrough, take note of the exterior grounds of the property. Parking lot conditions, markings, landscaping, concrete quality, layout, accessibility, lighting, and general condition of the space. While you won’t know the integrity of the foundation or structural elements, look for signs of damage, wear, cracks, etc.

During the walkthrough, have a member of your team accompany you to take notes whether you conduct your own inspection or hire a professional inspector. It helps to have your own information to compare your findings with that of the owner and the inspector to ensure nothing gets overlooked during the negotiation process. 

What to Look for During the Inspection Process

A thorough commercial real estate inspection should check every aspect of the property, including:

  • -Structural elements, from the condition of the roof, flooring, walls, and foundation
  • -Utilities like HVAC, fiber connection, electrical, and plumbing systems
  • -Local and state codes and regulations have strict guidelines, so ensure you’re up to speed on your area’s specific requirements so you can make your own assessment – and ask the right questions
  • -Condition of external and public-facing capacity, like parking, sprinkler -systems, sewage, public access, and garbage removal
  • -Fixtures, paint, ceiling condition, and window integrity
  • -Accessibility features for wheelchair access, common areas, restrooms, lobby condition, emergency exits, and elevators and escalators 

Look for signs of wear and tear in each room and aspect of the space. Signs of water damage, mold, structure problems, building access, aging concrete, and even the condition of utility connections outside and around the building can be major headaches during the length of the lease. 

How to Conduct Your Own Inspection

Much like the previous section, you’ll want to take a careful look at the property during your walkthrough, but if you choose to conduct your own commercial property inspection, there are a few more things you should know.

First, you’ll want access to the property and time to be thorough. It’s unlikely that the property owner will allow you to dig deep without their own representative onsite, but having the opportunity to spend adequate time at the property without the pressures of someone over your shoulder will be invaluable. If you’re seriously considering a property, request an allotted time to walk through and have complete access to the property during the inspection. It’s important to take your time and be uninhibited from sales and marketing speech in order to get a clear, complete picture of the condition of the property. 

Second, taking meticulous notes and photos of anything that’s no up to par. That could mean missing paint, damage to the parking areas, signs of wiring issues or fixture damage, mold beneath sinks or in utility areas, or scuffs on flooring or walls. Not only will these allow you to demonstrate areas for improvement should you take custody of the property, it’ll give you leverage during the lease negotiation process. 

Finally, even if you don’t bring in a professional property inspector, it’s worthwhile to provide your findings (and documentation of damage) to a third party. That could be a trusted consultant, your commercial property broker, or a property attorney. If there’s something that looks off, but it outside your area of expertise (such as analyzing electrical or HVAC systems for integrity and condition), you should bring in an experienced commercial property inspector for a second opinion. 

How to Process Your Inspection Information – and What Comes Next

Once the inspection is complete, you’ll have all the information you need to start the lease negotiation process with the property owner or real estate manager – especially if you’re purchasing a property. By inspecting the details and potential shortcomings of a property, a lower sale price may make up for outdated utility systems and necessary repairs. 

In lease negotiations, your results can be viable leverage to improve your lease terms or convince ownership to make the needed repairs before you put ink on paper. Because issues with a property can negatively impact your finances and operations, it’s important to obtain a clear and comprehensive inspection before negotiations begin. 

No matter the direction you take, a building inspection gives you a clear picture of the quality and condition of the building so you can make a more informed decision about the rental or purchase before committing to a long-term solution. 

Posted on

How to Promote – and Incorporate – a Healthier Workplace for Your Employees

Gone are the days of beige cubicles, metal desks, and lightly padded chairs – and for good reason.

Studies have shown that the effects of workplace design (including ergonomics, eye strain, and Repetitive Stress Injuries) have a significant impact on not just employee wellness, but their productivity and overall mood. In fact, 93% of workers in the technology sector have said they would stay longer at a company that provides workplace benefits like wellness rooms, fitness benefits, healthier food options nearby or on-site, and ergonomic solutions like standing desks and adjustable seating. 

Whether you’re looking to improve your workspace or spec a build-out for a new office, take the following tips and statistics into account before making an investment in new wellness and ergonomic initiatives.

Design and Environment Makes a Huge Difference

There’s always been a goal of a so-called “corner office” in the business world, but in the era of open-air office concepts, sunlight, access to windows, spacious common areas, balconies, and even plants can have a bigger impact than you might expect. 

Brighter colors, adjustable lighting, and access to fresh air help diversify a work environment, allowing for more sensory stimulation while avoiding boredom and ho-hum spaces that plague so many companies. 

Furthermore, having an HVAC system that produces higher quality air has shown to dramatically improve performance and productivity. Be sure your system has been tested and calibrated to prevent volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and biological contaminants from entering your workspace. 

Ergonomic Options Helps with Overall Health

Standing desks have become increasingly popular in the last decade and the results are clear. In addition to offsetting the dangerous effects of prolonged sitting, the use of standing desks provide increased focus, reduced stress, and higher cognitive function. 

In addition to installing standing desks at your company, providing wrist support for keyboards and mice (or, alternatively, using touchpads rather than mice) can help reduce RSI and their related side effects. 

Proper posture has always been a major issue for workers, adding to muscle aches, back pain, and foot and leg issues, and while it’s up to the individual to take note of their posture and make adjustments, companies should know that incorporating greater degrees of ergonomic options reduces sick leave. 

Opportunities for Exercise and Fresh Air Help with Focus

Not every company can afford an exercise or yoga facility, but anyone can implement walking meetings, encourage stretching or mindfulness breaks, and create jogging or walking groups throughout the work day. 

That said, it’s been demonstrated that companies who provide access to discounted gym memberships, on-site exercise facilities, or even dedicated yoga/meditation rooms see exceptional advances in productivity and overall employee happiness. 

Try implementing group activities like lunches in the park, outdoor meetings, and walking groups to help change the pace of the day and provide an opportunity for some fresh air and sunshine. 

Staggered and Flexible Schedules Have Shown Results

Microsoft Japan recently made headlines by publishing the results of a month-long trial of a 4 day work week and, as you might expect, workers were thrilled. But for a company’s bottom line, the results were surprising. Not only did productivity improve by nearly 40% during the trial run, but employees took 25% fewer days off, the office space used 23% less electricity, and printed almost 60% less paper during the month of August 2019. 

While this initiative might not work for every company, the importance of work/life balance throughout the work week has shown dividends for forward-thinking companies. Those with sales teams, of course, probably can’t afford to send everyone home at 5 PM on Thursday, so staggered schedules have been an alternative, allowing some employees to work Tuesday-Friday and others Monday-Thursday to accommodate business priorities. 

No matter how you choose to tackle your company’s wellness programs, know this – talented candidates will always be more attracted to your company if you demonstrate an interest in their health, wellbeing, and overall satisfaction at work. 

Posted on

How to Secure a Commercial Real Estate Loan and Tips to Get Approved Fast

Whether you’re looking to establish your first physical location or expand into a larger or additional space, you’ll likely need financing for a commercial real estate loan. Much like home mortgages or home equity line of credit, a commercial real estate loan can be used to make a purchase outright, fund needed improvements on a space you already own, or invest in specialized equipment to continue to grow your business.  Despite the nature of this loan, meant strictly for businesses, it resembles your typical residential mortgage in structure and terms, but is mostly dependent on a few key factors specific to your business. 

However, securing these types of loans can be difficult – and takes more effort than your typical, modern home loan. 

If you’re seeking a commercial real estate loan, there are several steps you need to take to even apply – let alone inform yourself on the ins and outs of the industry. Here’s what you need to know before getting started:

Explaining Commercial Real Estate Loans

Just as with residential real estate loans, not all commercial loans are created equal – or suit every business. Each loan type carries its own terms, rates, and approved usages. Before taking on a commercial real estate loan, you need to do your homework and find the right loan product for your needs.

Interest-only Loans

Interest-only loans, also known as balloon loans, are designed for businesses expecting a major financial windfall in the future. These types of loans carry a smaller interest rate with the expectation of a large final payment at the conclusion of the arrangement, which is typically between 3-7 years. 

Long-term Fixed-interest Mortgages

Most commercial real estate loans work in much the same way as a home mortgage loan, but with shorter terms. Commercial real estate loans rarely extend to 20 years compared to a home loan’s standard 30 year agreement and tend to sit between 5-10 years in length. There’s also a tougher credit score requirement, requiring business owners to have at least a 700 credit score, a demonstrated minimum of one year of success in business operation, and a 51% occupancy of the property in question. 

Refinance Loans

As with residential mortgages, companies can choose to apply for refinance loans to adjust their interest rates based on market conditions. While there are fees associated with this, companies looking toward the future can save in the long-term and accrue a smaller amount of debt over the lifetime of the loan. 

Hard Money Loans

Most business owners seek financing from traditional banks, but hard money loans come from private investors who may have other requirements and terms than FDIC-insured financial institutions. These loans tend to be based on the value of the commercial property and not by the credit scores or finances of the applicant. Hard money lenders want a quick return on investment, so don’t expect the lengthy repayment terms found at a traditional lender – nor the interest rates and upfront costs. 

Bridge Loans

A softer, more lenient version of a hard money loan that offers lower interest rates (typically between 6-9%), bridge loans provide better terms over a longer period. Approvals don’t take as long and funding comes much faster, but companies and business owners need to demonstrate exceptional credit scores and be able to demonstrate projected business growth as well as a 20% or greater down payment. 

Construction Loans

The upfront costs of land, material, and labor in a new construction are hefty, which is why a construction loan might make sense for companies looking to build and start fresh. These typically last between 18-36 months and end with a long-term mortgage once construction is complete. 

Blanket Loans

Blanket loans are designed for companies with multiple properties or plans to purchase them. These are common among franchises, small chains, and businesses with a viable need for multiple locations. These allow business owners to consolidate financing options for convenience and allow for sales of individual properties without fear of penalty against the loan’s arrangements. 

Applying for Commercial Real Estate Loans

Used primarily to either purchase or renovate a building, commercial real estate loans require that the property is owner-occupied, meaning that you can’t take out a commercial real estate loan if you’re leasing space. Because lenders consider the value of the physical property as collateral against the loan, you’ll need to actually own the building (or intend to purchase it) in order to secure the loan. 

However, there are some particulars and exceptions. If you’re sharing space with another business and own the building, you can take out a commercial real estate loan – but your primary business will need to occupy at least 51% of the space. 

Next, you’ll want to determine the type of commercial real estate loan you’ll need. This depends primarily on the type of business, the property itself, and your current and projected finances. 

What Commercial Real Estate Lenders Look for in Applicants

Before applying for a commercial real estate loan, you should inform yourself and your financial team about the requirements that a potential lender will expect during the application process. Here’s how to prepare:

Business Finances

While a commercial real estate loan may look like a residential mortgage or equity loan, the requirements are much more strict – and undergo more scrutiny. Because small businesses are more volatile and subject to more risk as a result of market conditions, the loan terms, and associated interest rates, may be higher than that of a more established company. 

Lenders will look at a company’s debt service coverage ratio, which analyzes a business’ annual net income versus the total annual debt. A ratio of 1.25 or better is standard. For example, should a company apply for a $1,000,000 commercial real estate loan, they’ll need to demonstrate the ability to generate a net annual income of at least $1,250,000. 

In addition, lenders will check your company’s business credit score to determine your ability to repay your loan and your previous history with debt and credit. Lower scores, as with personal credit scores, will determine the interest rate, payback period, and the required down payment. 

Most lenders require a FICO Small Business Scoring Service (SBSS) score of at least 140 – but there are exceptions for companies with collateral or higher personal credit scores. 

Personal Finances

There are multiple factors for small business owners to consider before applying for a commercial real estate loan, including each partners’ personal credit history and current scores. Businesses should take an honest accounting of stakeholders’ personal credit defaults, any foreclosures, liens, legal actions, and more before applying for a commercial real estate loan. 

Property and Collateral

In most commercial real estate loans, the property itself is treated as collateral. The lender attaches a lien to the property, giving them the ability to seize the building due to lack of payment. As mentioned above, these types of loans generally require the business to occupy at least 51% of the building. If that’s not in your company’s real estate equation, an investment property loan may be a better option.

As with most property-based loans, the terms are primarily based on credit score, net income, and property value. Lenders will allow potential borrowers a maximum value based on the loan-to-value (LTV) ratio and calculate the total loan based on that number. This is usually between 65-75%, which would mean your company must provide the remainder of that percentage as a down payment on the commercial real estate loan. 

How to Qualify for a Commercial Real Estate Loan and What to Expect from the Application Processing 

It’s no surprise that commercial real estate loans require a substantial amount of documentation. If you’re preparing for an application, you’ll need to meet – or exceed – the following threshold:

  • – Credit reports on all major stakeholders and the company itself
  • – Up to five years of tax tenures and financial records
  • – Projected finances throughout the life of the proposed loan
  • – Certification of corporation or LLC
  • – An independent appraisal of the property in question
  • – A complete business plan for the growth of the company, the use of the building and its benefits, and a breakdown of stakeholders’ qualifications and expertise.

Hard money lenders, and traditional lenders considering applicants with tight finances or poorer credit scores, will be more strict with borrowers. If your company has a subpar credit score or can’t secure funding from private or traditional lenders, here are some other options:

  • – Consider an SBA 504 or 7(a) loan, which is guaranteed by the U.S. Small – Business Administration
  • – Look into grants from non-profit organizations, local business development administrations, or SBA-issued grants
  • – Eliminate debt and improve your credit score
  • – Bring on additional investors or partners
  • – Consider personal or business collateral to demonstrate assets
  • – Look at private investment, angel investors, or a peer-to-peer lending group
  • – Offer lenders a larger down payment or higher interest rate

While commercial real estate loans are notoriously difficult to secure, being prepared for the application process at the outset – and bringing in your financial team and a commercial real estate broker – will go a long to demonstrate that your company has done its homework and is prepared to take on the financial burden of a monthly loan payment. 

Want to learn about your financing options? Check out Lendio. As a trusted partner of OfficeSpace.com, Lendio matches you to the best options and help you choose the small business loan that’s right for you. It’s that simple. No jargon or complicated processes. Get started now.