Renting a retail space is perhaps one of the biggest overheads a business incurs. Since there is no standard leasing agreement, you certainly need to be more leasing savvy and acquire some basic knowledge on the subject of leasing. Before you sign a lease on commercial real estate in Florida, try to absorb a few practical tips.

ask before signing

If you’re new to commercial space rentals, there are several things you should be familiar with. One of the most important things to understand is the legality of a lease. Know that once you’ve signed one, you can’t just break the agreement at will or simply modify the terms to suit your company’s needs. It doesn’t really work that way. So, before finalizing a lease on commercial real estate property in Florida, be sure to ask the following questions.

ask yourself:

* How long do I intend to occupy the commercial space? — You need to predict how long your business can effectively operate in the space you want to rent. Although all lease terms are negotiable, the lease period essentially adheres to a certain standard. Most short-term leases last between three and five years, while long-term leases are usually valid for ten years.

* Can I leave the lease? — Breaking a lease on commercial real estate in Florida can have serious consequences. You could be denied access to the property, lose your deposit, or be sued. Make sure that you really intend to stay for the period stipulated in the contract, as well as in the location, before signing.

Ask the broker:

* What is your experience level? — Commercial real estate is actually a specialized field in which most brokers generally focus on two types of properties: warehouses or offices. Therefore, you should choose a broker who has a highly regarded track record in the Florida commercial real estate industry.

* What are your certifications? — It is definitely acceptable to ask about professional certifications. Although experience remains the best indicator for evaluating a broker’s competence, designations from well-known real estate organizations show that he or she has gone the extra mile.

Negotiate the best lease offer

Try to negotiate your way to the best lease for a commercial real estate property in Florida. Here are some helpful trading tips you can use:

* Take advantage of the “permitted use of the premises” clause. — A commercial real estate lease typically includes a section that sets forth this particular provision. Try to make this clause as broad as possible, as your business may expand or you may decide to sublet a portion of your space to another company.

* Reach a favorable agreement for a lease term. — Most of the time, owners of commercial real estate properties in Florida are prepared to make concessions for long-term leases. Instead of settling for a fixed number of years, make an effort to negotiate a shorter lease term that has renewal options.

http://commercial-realestate-florida.xon.us — Commercial Real Estate in Florida