If you are a tenant looking for office or retail space, you may wonder what tenant representation is and whether or not you need it. Simply put, tenant representation is a service that helps tenants find and lease commercial real estate.
Here are the benefits of tenant representation and how it can help you find the perfect space for your business.
Tenant Representation Defined
Tenant representation is a service offered by commercial real estate brokers that provides tenants unbiased advice and advocacy during the office lease process. When you hire a tenant representative, or a tenant rep for short, you can be confident that you are making the best decision for your business.
Benefits of Hiring a Tenant Representative
Tenant reps have no loyalty to the landlord and seek to advocate for you. They are experienced in negotiating lease terms and can save you time and money. They will also handle all the paperwork, logistics, and communication with the landlord, so you can focus on running your business.
Tenant reps have inside knowledge of the commercial real estate market, including information on properties that may not be publicly listed. They will work on your behalf to find the best property for your needs, negotiate the best lease terms, and help you avoid costly mistakes.
Why Hire a Tenant Representative?
Finding the most suitable office space can take time and effort for businesses. If you’re considering finding a new office or moving your office location, a tenant rep will help you define what you exactly need, and then find potential spaces that suit the specific needs of your business.
Tenant reps have an in-depth understanding of the market and its changing landscape. Whether your business is expanding or downsizing, they will analyze all available options on the market to fit the perfect fit for your company.
Here are some challenges you may face when trying to source a property without tenant representation.
Communication With the Landlord
Landlords and tenant reps work together to optimize communication on behalf of the tenant client. Tenant reps have more bargaining authority as they know what questions to ask given the needs of the client. The goal is to prevent missing important information in the discussion.
Selecting the Right Location and Space
One of the most crucial aspects of a business is its location. In addition, your location must also be an ideal fit for your needs.
Some essential questions to consider are:
- Does the rental rate fit your budget?
- Does the location suit your target market?
- Is the building in the right part of town?
When you hire a tenant rep, they will look at the pros and cons of a specific area. They will ensure all issues are looked at and questions are sorted out before you look at a location.
Amenities: Getting Parking Space for Employees
In crowded locations, parking can get expensive, and most of the time, it’s limited. Securing parking space for employees is essential, and it can be challenging to secure it without a tenant rep.
A tenant rep can negotiate an ideal parking arrangement and ensure you get the correct parking terms in the lease. They will also be able to correctly estimate the number of parking spots needed, negotiate lower monthly fees, and provide parking solutions.
In addition to parking, your tenant rep can find other desirable amenities to create value for your clients and employees.
Hiring a Tenant Representative
One important tip to remember when hiring a tenant representative is to ensure they are experienced and have a track record of successful client negotiations. Ask for references and research the tenant reps’ business history before committing to working with them. It’s also essential to communicate your needs, budget, and timeline so your tenant rep can effectively work on your behalf.
Tenant representation is a valuable service for tenants looking for commercial real estate. Hiring a tenant representative is a wise investment for any business owner looking for office or retail space.
What Oliver Commercial Real Estate Offers You
At Oliver Commercial Real Estate, Tenant Representation is one of our featured services. We’re committed to finding and closing the best commercial properties for you.
Our commercial spaces are in convenient and accessible areas of Houston, from the Houston Ship Channel to The Woodlands. Our team of locally qualified agents and property managers will analyze your needs. This helps us deliver the best possible solution for your commercial real estate needs.
In addition to Tenant Representation, we also provide:
- Commercial/Industrial Space Brokerage – executive suites, office condos, mixed-used offices, and warehouse spaces
- Property Management
- Construction services for renovation and build-outs
Feel free to contact Oliver CRE at (281) 558-1111 to schedule an appointment.