We've covered a number of different bases regarding commercial
rental property, but as of yet we've not looked at perhaps the most
important: choosing the right one!  As a result, this piece is
going to cover all of the key aspects you need to consider when
picking out the perfect commercial property for your business.

First things first, let's work through the major questions that
you'll need to answer whilst hunting down your perfect
property.

What type of property are you looking for?

Are you looking for a retail property, or an industrial base, or
perhaps a studio?  It may be, of course, that you're looking
for a combination of two or three - this is especially common if
you're a larger business looking for a head office.  Whatever
your situation is, know exactly which type of property you need
before you start looking.

How much space do you need?

This ties in quite well with the above point; essentially, as
well as knowing the details of which tasks the office will be used
for, you'll need to know the specifics of these tasks.  For
instance, if you need an office within your industrial space,
you'll also need to know how many desks you're going to need, which
facilities you'll want and how much space (specifically) you'll
need to fit it all in.

Which on-site facilities do you require?

Another key point.  You'll need to make a good-sized list
of ALL of the facilities you're going to need, in every area of the
business.  For your office, you'll need internet and telephone
lines, but you might also need meeting rooms, space for
presentations, audio-visual equipment as well as facilities for
staff such as canteens and kitchens, bathrooms and break-out areas.
Depending on where the office is based, you might not need ALL of
these facilities, but ensure you've got them all covered in some
capacity.  The same goes for facilities in industrial and
manufacturing areas of the company.

What impression do you want to make?

A company's offices can say a lot about the business
itself.  Cutting edge companies will want a cutting edge
space, for example, just as a traditional solicitor's firm will
want offices that give the impression of solidity and
professionalism.  It's possible to modify the internals of a
building - and renovation is definitely an option - but ensure that
you're able to achieve this within the terms of the lease before
you make any agreements.