4 Random Commercial Real Estate Leasing Thoughts

Today, I decided it would be fun to regurgitate a few random thoughts as they pertain to LEASING commercial real estate.

As we have discussed before, leasing is a big part of our daily activity - unlike our residential counterparts. We, as commercial real estate professionals help occupants find space to lease or buy.

Typically, leases account for 70-75% of our deal volume - sales the balance.

We differ from our residential counterparts. Our fees are based on a percentage of the deal's total consideration - purchase price or the amount of rent paid over the term of the lease. Generally, commercial leases run 3-10 years - so the amount of rent payments negotiated is a significant sum. Whereas, residential leases are month-to-month or a year maximum. Consequently, the potential fees on a residential lease - because the term is much shorter - make it unprofitable for residential agents to pursue.

Subleases are a pain. A sublease is necessary when an occupant no longer needs the building - for myriad reasons - yet has a term of lease remaining. The owner of the building still wants his rent. So, the occupant resorts to finding a substitute - a subtenant - to move in and assume the rent payments. Differences in uses, credit, number of players, and changing market conditions all create the pain in a sublease transaction.

Credit requirements of a property owner. At a minimum, the owner will look at the total amount of the lease - let's assume $10,000 per month for sixty months or $600,000. The owner is leasing an occupant the building in return for $600,000 in rent payments. Therefore, the owner is extending the occupant $600,000 of credit - so to speak. Carefully scrutinized is the occupant's ability to repay the $600,000 - through an analysis of the business's sales and credit history.

Process. Searching for a space to lease is similar to searching for a building to buy. The similarities: Facility requirements are discussed - loading, power, amount of office space, warehouse ceiling height, etc., geographical areas are considered, a list of alternatives is toured and a candidate is chosen. Now, the differences occur. A sale deal will proceed to a negotiation, an agreement, an escrow, due diligence and closing - approximately 60-90 days. But, a lease will involve a negotiation and a lease - much quicker - fewer than 30 days, in most cases.

If ever we can assist you in leasing or buying a building, please call us at 714.564.7104 or email us at abuchanan@lee-associates.com.