Your business is growing. Congratulations! You expect big things from your business in 2014, and in the new year, you are looking to find new office space for lease in Victoria to accommodate bigger operations and more employees.
Here are our tips on how to find the best office option for your growing business.
1. Establish your budget
The first and most important step to your new office space is your budget. How much are you ready to spend for bigger offices? While already a big part of your expenses, you must make sure to know how much you can afford without negating the benefits of your growing business. Have a firm budget established before you start shopping.
2. Know how much space you need
Make a simple calculation of square feet per employee. The average is about 125 square feet per employee for their workspace—engineers, designers, accountants and management need more space. To this, add reception space, lunch or break room space, conference room space and other storage and areas that your business needs.
3. Choose an appropriate area in town
If you regularly meet with clients in your offices, a downtown location might be more practical—especially if you deal with the public or the government. If your work requires you or your employees to head out and visit clients, make sure your office is near a major driving artery. If you need specific services or know areas that concentrate certain types of businesses, you might want to look into these areas as well.
4. Visit three to five offices
Shopping for office space is not like buying a new shirt. The money and time involved in moving and settling everyone back into a new space are going to be important, so the right choice matters. Start by a long list of available offices that match your area and space needs. Narrow it down to three to five spaces that you are actually interested in visiting, and then make the visit appointments.
5. Check the small print before signing
After you’ve chosen a space, make sure to review the lease contract with your lawyer. There’s nothing worse than expecting electricity to be included in the rent and then receiving a Hydro bill! Make sure you know who is responsible for electricity, water or garbage disposal, or who to call if you find damage to the property. Know how many parking spots are available for your employees. These are only a few of the many details you need to know in order to make an informed decision.
Photo by Duane Hess