Moving your enterprise is a major job that requires not just a plan but also a well-executed series of steps. Of course, one of the most crucial aspects of this whole affair is relocating to a suitable new space. Commercial real estate listing services have transformed the manner in which businesses seek and secure new spaces. These web-based platforms themselves are not difficult to use. Still, a good user experience is only half the equation for finding a good space; the other half is knowing your company’s needs and using that knowledge to inform your search and your choices. So before you dive into the search or start poking around in the platforms, I strongly recommend taking some time to flesh out the specific wishes and requirements that your company has for its new space.

Choose the right platform: ROFO.com is a platform that connects business owners with commercial real estate professionals and helps them find office and meeting room spaces.

Here are some of the reasons why ROFO.com might be a good source for finding your next business location:

• Connect with commercial real estate professionals: ROFO allows you to find brokers and agents in your area who specialize in commercial real estate. This can be helpful if you need assistance navigating the leasing process or finding properties that meet your specific needs.
• Browse listings by market activity: You can browse listings by zip code or region to see what kind of properties are available in your target market. This can give you a good sense of pricing trends and what types of spaces are in demand.
• Track market activity: ROFO allows you to keep track of new listings, pricing, and transactions. This information can be helpful when negotiating a lease with a landlord.
• Social features: ROFO has social features that allow you to share listings with others and get recommendations on agents or brokers.

Amenities: Make sure the property has the essential amenities needed for your business, like high-speed internet and adequate parking. Check the building security and any on-site amenities that might be beneficial, like a gym or cafe, ensuring that the SRO is an allusive ground for your potential workers if it comes to that. Zoning: Verify that the property conforms to your business type, as well as any local, state, or federal regulations. If you work in an industry with a dubious reputation, such as an adult services business or a licensed marijuana seller, make sure the property won’t be tormented by prying eyes or have a sheriff’s deputy camped out across the street.

Examine the activity in your target market: You can examine listings by area to understand the kinds of properties being marketed there. Listings can be filtered by price range, allowing you to see what’s available in your budget, and they can also be filtered by type of property: commercial spaces, offices, retail space, etc. If you have a potential site in mind, you can examine the property path activity for that site to see what the deal flow looks like. Is your potential site being leased or sold? If your potential site is listed as an active property, it’s a good indicator that the kinds of listings you care about in that area have momentum.

Property Type: Choose the correct property type (office, retail, industrial, etc.). Size: Enter your required minimum and maximum square footage. Price Range: Set the budget parameters. Amenities: Filter by specific requirements, like necessary parking, loading docks, and on-site services. Keywords: Use relevant keywords to find properties that match your specific needs (e.g., “high ceilings,” “creative office space”). Property Research: Once you’ve identified potential sites, conduct thorough research on each. Visit the Property: Schedule a North Face trip to each property to assess its condition, layout, and the surrounding area; review the site with a critical eye. Lease Agreements: Carefully examine all the required terms and provisions of the lease. Make sure you really understand what is and is not allowed. Pay close attention to rent, duration, and maintenance provisions. Consider your responsibilities if you have to move at the end of the lease.

Look into the landlord: An investigation into a landlord’s reputation and their way of dealing with tenants can go a long way toward ensuring that you don’t end up stuck in an unpleasant situation.

Be sure to understand your local market: You need to know your local market well enough to determine whether the proposed rental agreement makes sense.

Get a commercial real estate broker to help you: Find a local commercial real estate broker to assist you in the process.and in the negotiations. Your leverage is determined by how well you know the market, how desirable your business is, and how well-off you are financially.

Compromise may be necessary: You may have to yield on some terms while holding steadfast to the critical ones that matter most to you. If you must negotiate, do so with an aim to achieve a win-win outcome. This is a critical time for your company as you look to forge a long-term path for its future. Focusing on the above items will help ensure that the relocation is beneficial for both you and the landlord over the long term. It’s a lot to think about, and it could be helpful to work through the details with your legal and financial professionals.

By following these best practices and leveraging the power of commercial real estate listing sites, you can streamline your business relocation process and find the ideal space for your company to thrive. Remember to clearly define your needs, conduct thorough research, and negotiate effectively to secure the best possible outcome for your business.

Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Consult with qualified professionals for guidance specific to your situation.