Get expert advice delivered straight to your inbox.

Skip to Main Content

3 Things To Do Before You Rent Out Your Commercial Space

There’s only one reason to own commercial property—to make money! Get your space leased by the right tenant at the right rate by doing some homework before you put out that “For Rent” sign.

We asked Brian Estes, one of Dave’s Endorsed Local Providers and a commercial real estate professional in Mississippi, what three things he recommends his clients do when they’re ready to rent out their properties.

Find The Right Rate Terms

Any homeowner knows how important it is to price their home correctly when they’re looking to sell. The same is true when you set the rent for your commercial space.

“Nothing is more time-consuming and costly than to overprice your space,” Brian said.

And under-pricing is no better. Either way, you lose money!

To find out what the going rate is for spaces like yours, ask other property owners with similar spaces that are already occupied. While you’re at it, ask them how their leases are structured. Do they have full-service leases in which the rent covers all expenses like utilities and janitorial services? Or does the tenant pay for these separately? Are the leases one- or two-year agreements, or do tenants prefer a longer term?

“In the case with Class B and C office buildings, many tenants prefer full-service leases,” Brian explained. “It’s easier to budget, and they don’t have to put up deposits for utilities.”

Making your rental rates and lease terms attractive can make all the difference in getting your space occupied quickly—and bringing in money.

Make It Look Good

Speaking of making things attractive, a good-looking location will attract more potential tenants, Brian said.

“In most cases, there is always room for improvement to the exterior of your property to increase its curb appeal,” he explained. “Current and potential tenants want to have a location they can take pride in.”

On the inside, you can offer your prospective tenants an allowance to spend on improvements if your space isn’t in move-in condition. Or, you can let them choose the paint and carpet that you will have installed.

However, if tenants in the market are interested in leasing a space for two years or less, Brian recommends showing your space in move-in condition. That way, you don’t have to make improvements for a tenant who doesn’t have a long-term commitment to the location.

Go With A Pro

You can make the whole process simpler by working with a professional.

“In some markets, simply posting signs will quickly lease a space,” Brian said. “However, in most markets, good commercial real estate agents have access to databases, tenant contacts and other agent relationships that are critical in getting spaces leased.”

Did you find this article helpful? Share it!

Ramsey Solutions

About the author

Ramsey

Ramsey Solutions has been committed to helping people regain control of their money, build wealth, grow their leadership skills, and enhance their lives through personal development since 1992. Millions of people have used our financial advice through 22 books (including 12 national bestsellers) published by Ramsey Press, as well as two syndicated radio shows and 10 podcasts, which have over 17 million weekly listeners. Learn More.

Related Articles

business emergency fund
Business

How Much Money Should You Have in a Business Emergency Fund?

Being hit with the unexpected doesn’t have to destroy your business. Learn how having a business emergency fund can help you weather intense storms.

Ramsey Ramsey
how to calculate retained earnings
Business

How to Calculate Retained Earnings

Having retained earnings gives your business a path to financial stability, growth and peace. Learn how to calculate yours and to where to start on saving a portion of your profits.

Ramsey Ramsey