Real Business

Here's a list of things to look out for when viewing a commercial property:

• First impressions count – ask yourself whether this commercial property is somewhere you would really like to work?
  
• Will the space work for you? Is the image right for today and for your business moving forward?
  
• Do reception and security personnel "meet and greet" visitors well or do they seem disinterested and ineffective?
  
• Are the doors and windows of the commercial property properly secured from break-ins? Is there a shared alarm system or will you be able to install your own?
  
• Will the space work for you? Ask for a floor plan of the commercial property or be prepared to sketch your own grid plan. Typically for office requirements allow eight-to-ten square metres per person.
  
• What are the fixtures and fittings? If it’s an empty shell are there any rules about what you can do with the space?
  

This commercial property mini-series covers other a range of commercial property tips and tricks:

• How to choose a commercial property space
• How to search for commercial property
  
• Understanding the costs and terms of the commercial property lease
  
• Agreeing the commercial property deal
  

James Friedenthal is business development director at Workspace.

Picture source