Choosing the right commercial space is one of the most important decisions any business owner makes. The right property can strengthen your operations, support your growth, and create a positive experience for both customers and employees. But finding that space requires more than browsing listings or focusing on price alone.
With the right approach, you can simplify the process, avoid costly mistakes, and secure a location that supports your business for years to come.
1. Start With a Clear Picture of Your Business Needs
Before you start touring properties, take time to evaluate your business operations today and where you see them in the next few years. This step helps prevent signing a lease that fits your business today but limits you tomorrow.
- How many employees or customers do you expect to serve?
- Do you need private offices, open floor space, or dedicated storage?
- Will you need additional parking, loading docks, or outdoor space?
- Does your operation require specialized features such as ventilation, high ceilings, or secure access?
- Is future expansion a realistic possibility during your lease term?
A clear understanding of your space needs helps you rule out options that won’t serve your operations or budget long-term.
2. Location Isn’t Just About Zip Code
Where you locate your business affects far more than your commute. The right location balances customer access, employee convenience, and long-term market potential.
- Retail businesses often depend on strong visibility, foot traffic, and complementary neighboring businesses that help drive shared customer flow.
- Office users should consider highway access, parking, proximity to public transportation, and nearby amenities that appeal to employees and clients.
- Industrial or flex users should factor in delivery access, logistics routes, and local zoning that supports their operations.
Before you commit, evaluate the area’s growth patterns, competition, demographics, and any planned developments that may influence your business down the road.
3. Understand the Property Types Available
Not all commercial properties serve the same purpose. Matching your business type to the right property category helps ensure efficient daily operations—and keeps you from paying for features you don’t need.
- Retail properties: Ideal for businesses needing visibility and daily customer access (stores, salons, restaurants).
- Office space: Designed for professional services, meetings, and administrative staff.
- Flex space: Combines office and light industrial uses, allowing for a blend of administration, storage, production, or distribution.
Accessibility matters across all categories. Consider how easily customers, employees, suppliers, and deliveries can reach your location—and whether you’ll meet ADA requirements if applicable.
4. Budget for More Than Just Rent
Monthly rent is only part of your occupancy costs. Overlooking additional expenses can turn a seemingly affordable space into a financial strain.
- CAM (Common Area Maintenance) fees
- Property taxes and insurance
- Utilities and HVAC maintenance
- Janitorial and landscaping services
- Build-out or upfit costs (flooring, paint, lighting, wiring)
Landlords may offer improvement allowances, but clarify what’s included upfront. An experienced broker can help you estimate true monthly and upfront costs so you avoid surprises.
5. Work With a Broker Who Knows Your Industry
The right commercial real estate broker does far more than show you properties. An experienced broker:
- Understands your business model and operations.
- Knows which properties fit your industry’s needs.
- Identifies potential red flags before you commit.
- Negotiates favorable lease terms that protect your long-term interests.
At DeLille | Field, we help small businesses make smart real estate decisions. We ask the right questions, analyze the fine print, and guide clients through each step with confidence. The goal isn’t just to secure a space—it’s to secure the right space for your business.
6. Always Tour Multiple Spaces Before Deciding
Photos rarely tell the full story. Before committing, tour several properties in person, ideally more than once. Walk the space with a checklist in hand:
- What is the total monthly cost after all fees?
- What condition are the HVAC, electrical, and plumbing systems in?
- Are there restrictions on signage, hours of operation, or business activities?
- Who handles repairs, maintenance, snow removal, and cleaning?
- Can this space support your growth for the full lease term?
Direct comparisons between properties allow you to make decisions based on facts, not just emotion.
7. Watch for Red Flags Before You Sign
Even desirable spaces can hide costly risks. Stay alert for warning signs such as:
- Vague or one-sided lease language that shifts costs or responsibilities to the tenant.
- Landlords unwilling to maintain the property or address known issues.
- High tenant turnover or vacant neighboring units.
- Zoning conflicts that restrict your ability to operate or expand.
- Lease terms that limit your flexibility as your business grows.
If anything feels off, slow down. Securing expert guidance early often prevents far more costly headaches later.
Remember: a bad lease can be harder to escape than a bad location.
Partner With DeLille | Field to Make Confident Decisions
You don’t need to navigate commercial leasing on your own. At DeLille | Field, we help business owners ask the right questions first—before problems arise. Our market knowledge, negotiating experience, and advisory approach protect your business both today and long-term.
Whether you’re opening your first retail location or relocating an established operation, our team simplifies the process, protects your interests, and helps you secure the right space with confidence.
