Business Lease Do's & Don'ts

Before signing a lease for your business office or retail space consider these ideas:

DOs

 *Look at several sites before deciding

 *Check zoning and codes for the space

 *Have all extra agreements in the lease

 *Have a lawyer or legal service review the lease

 *Read the lease yourself

 *Check demographics id a retail space

 *Check signage rules before executing the lease

 *Get a trade-up escape clause

 *Ask for 1-2 months free rent

 *Negotiate a lower rent rate

 *Request 24/7 access with heat & A/C

DON'TS

 *Jump at the first place you like

 *Take the cheapest rent you find

 *Believe everything the renting agent tells you

 *Personally guarantee the lease

 *Be rushed into a decision

 *make a deal only with a handshake

 *Ask for unreasonable things

 *Forget to ask about any permits or licenses you may need

 *Let the potential landlord bully you

Barry is a business speaker and advisor that helps people start a business or franchise. www.idealetter.com