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When your business is expanding, and you need to find a bigger and better office, there are many considerations you must factor into your search. You do not want to rush into deciding where your new office will be, and ensure you leave no stone unturned in your search for the ideal office space. Making a hasty decision can lead you to regret it, and there are many factors you must consider when looking at potential offices. You can see some of the factors listed below to help you get started searching for the perfect office that will be a comfortable and productive workspace for your business and its employees.
Key Considerations When Looking At New Office Space For Your Business
The Ideal Location
The location of your new office space is a vital factor to consider, and you want to ensure that it will be easily accessible for your employees. Consider factors such as accessibility, visibility, and proximity to your target audience. Is it easy for clients to find your office? Is there ample parking nearby? Are there public transportation options for your employees? Additionally, think about the local amenities and services available, such as restaurants, banks, and healthcare facilities, which can make your employees’ lives easier. You can often pay a premium to have an office in a central location, but the benefits it brings can be worth paying for your business and its employees.
The Size & Layout
You must also consider the size and layout of any potential offices you are looking at to ensure they are suitable for your business. You need to strike a balance between finding a suitable size of office for your business in an excellent location and ensuring it is within budget. Many offices will be empty shells when you rent them, so you must factor in the cost of fitting them out before your business moves into them. You also want to ensure that your new office has sufficient space if your company will expand further, as you do not want to outgrow your office space within six months.
Fitting Out Your Office Space
You will also need to consider how you will fit out your office space and the materials you will use in it, which can affect the comfort and productivity of your workers. You want to ensure sufficient natural light in your office, and if this is limited, you can consider using glass partitioning to divide the space. Use the services of an experienced office design company, and they can help you create the perfect office space and maximise your use of space once you find the ideal location.
Infrastructure & Technology
When looking at potential offices for your business, you must also consider the infrastructure and technology available that your business will require. Ask about the availability of high-speed internet, phone lines, and other essential technologies your business will need for its daily operations. You must ensure that your potential new office space has the infrastructure in place for what our business will need, or whether you will need to make the investment and install this yourself. A well-equipped office space will save you time and money in the long run and can also help boost the productivity of your employees.
Budget
Another vital factor to consider when looking at an office to rent is the budget you have available. You must select somewhere that is affordable for your business and has everything it needs to thrive, and ensure you include the cost of fitting out the office in your overall budget. You also need to consider other costs and factor these into your budget, such as:
- Insurance
- Water
- Electric
- Gas
- Internet
- Business Rates
You want to create a detailed budget that makes allowances for all expenses, which will help you find a suitable office location for your business that is within your budget.
The Lease Terms
When you have found a suitable office that is within your budget, before signing an agreement, you must also look at the terms of the lease. You want to review these terms carefully and ensure you know what is included in the price. You want to look at the length of the lease, and signing a longer lease can often give you more favourable rates. A shorter lease will offer more flexibility, but there is a cost involved, as the monthly charges will be higher. Look at all the clauses in the lease agreement, and it is worth having your company legal expert look at the lease and its fine details before signing on the dotted line.
Selecting the right office space for your business is a pivotal decision that requires careful consideration. By evaluating the key factors above, you can make an informed decision to benefit your business long-term and select the best new office space perfect for your business.
