Current events have required and forced a lot of changes here in California and elsewhere. Small business owners may discover they need to move into a different space. Even those who have signed commercial leases before still need to stay on their game and not let their guard down when it comes to the negotiation process.
Not surprisingly, the commercial real estate market has taken some hits of late. Both property owners and tenants have found themselves struggling financially, so their goals may be more at odds than they might have been in the past. It is important to remember to scrutinize the fine print and thoroughly understand the terms of the lease before even thinking of signing it.
It may be necessary to make a move, but that does not mean that the potential tenant should forgo the careful planning that goes into finding the right space and the right lease agreement to go with it. The fine print will most likely still be there, and it could end up being a costly oversight for the tenant. Property owners may be looking for an opportunity to recoup some losses and may be gun shy when it comes to new tenants, but it should not be at the expense of a new tenant.
For these and other reasons, it would be a good idea for California small business owners to take the time they need to make sure they are getting the best deal possible. Scrutinizing commercial leases may not be something that small business owners want to do, but it is important. It may help to work with an experienced commercial real estate attorney in order to make sure their rights and interests are protected before signing anything.
