Our Process for Leasing or Buying Commercial Space
Four steps from first call to keys in hand. You work one-on-one with Barrett Fowler at every step and are never handed off to someone else.
Getting started
It starts with a free 15-minute call
Bring the space you are considering, the lease you are renewing, or the problem you are trying to solve. We'll tell you plainly how we can help and whether we're the right fit.
Prefer to start in writing?
Request a free space analysis and Barrett will send you available options and market rents for your requirement.
Get a Free Space AnalysisThe four steps
From first call to keys in hand
-
Define the Requirement
Often undervalued, this step shapes everything that follows. We ask questions and listen until we understand the details that make a property work for your business.
- Tenants: size, budget, location, timing, layout and how you expect to grow.
- Buyers: price, timing, property type, location and, for investors, tenant credit quality.
-
Search the Market
We look at the whole market, not just the listings that are easiest to find, and tour the best options with you.
- Listed, off-market and sublease options.
- National databases plus our local and regional network.
- Side-by-side comparisons with real occupancy or ownership costs.
-
Negotiate the Terms
Deals are about more than rent or price. Barrett negotiates the full deal directly on your behalf. You are never handed off.
- Leases: rent, free rent, tenant improvement allowance, term, renewal options and exit rights.
- Purchases: price, terms, contingencies and closing timeline.
-
Execute & Build Out
We stay involved after you sign, connecting you with the professionals who finish the job.
- Introductions to trusted attorneys, architects and contractors.
- For purchases, coordination with your lender, attorney, inspectors and surveyors.
- Support through closing, build-out and move-in.
Why it works
A process built around your business, not a building
Typical dual-agency brokerage
- Lists buildings for landlords and earns more when its own listings lease
- Knows the landlord's bottom line but can't share it with you
- You may be handed off to a junior associate
Fowler Property Advisors
- Represents only tenants and buyers, with no listings to push
- Shows you the whole market, including off-market options
- You work one-on-one with Barrett, start to finish
How long does a typical search take?
It depends on size and property type. Smaller office and retail searches often take a few months from first call to signed lease, while larger requirements, purchases and build-outs take longer. Starting 12 to 18 months before you need the space is ideal.
When should I start looking for new commercial space?
Start 12 to 18 months before your lease expires for office and industrial space, and earlier for larger requirements or build-outs. That window gives you leverage in a renewal and time to compare relocation options.
Can you help if I've already found a space?
Yes. We can step in to evaluate the space against comparable options, check the economics and negotiate the lease or purchase on your behalf, even late in the process.
What does your help cost?
In most commercial lease transactions the landlord pays the broker commission, and in most purchases the seller does, so tenants and buyers typically pay nothing out of pocket. We confirm how compensation works for your specific deal before you commit to anything.
Ready to talk about your space?
Tell us what you need and get a free analysis of available options and market rents.