Kathy Woodward DDI Commercial | Southcreek

6 Tips for Startups Trying To Negotiate a Favorable Small Office Lease in Kansas City

Startups don’t always have the most clout when trying to negotiate a commercial real estate rental with landlords. But it is not impossible for a startup to end up with good terms for their first commercial lease, particularly with real estate markets reviving in some parts of the country. Here are a few tips for negotiating for a favorable lease, as suggested in the article “How Startups Negotiate Favorable Leases”:

#1 Work With a Broker Small businesses—especially startups—can benefit hugely from working with a lawyer who is familiar with the industry and the area. Talk to other tenants in the building about the brokers they used, and try for someone who has experience with that building, or even just with the neighborhood. Commercial markets can be very specialized, so it is important to not only have representation, but to have representation that knows the context. Be particularly wary of seeking help from the landlord’s broker, who will be prioritizing the interests of the landlord.

#2 Evaluate the Location Consider the positives and negatives of a location. Remember that while a flashy location might be important for some types of businesses, that kind off luxury will also come with higher business license fees and taxes. Also consider things like parking for clients and building access for deliveries.

#3 Know What is Included in Your Rent Depending on the type of lease, your rent might not include everything–for example, you might have to pay separately for utilities, janitorial services parking, property taxes, maintenance of common areas, or insurance. All leases vary and are negotiable, so try to make sure that the terms in your lease match the particular needs and budget of your business.

#4 Ask for Concessions from Your Landlord Because the real estate market has been in such a slump, landlords have been offering a lot of great deals to tenants. But as markets in many areas start to improve again, these deals may get less and less frequent. Usually sweeteners are offered to long term tenants, so if it is possible, try to get a good deal on a long term lease while you can—but know that shorter leases are generally better for smaller companies because there is less financial risk involved.

#5 Include a Termination Agreement Give yourself an escape hatch both for the possibility that your business is hugely successful or struggling. Whether you have outgrown your space or you are having difficulty paying rent each month, a termination agreement can facilitate a much needed way out. Some landlords will want to be able to approve of a transfer of ownership of your business or ask for a personal guarantee, especially if you are a startup. Make sure that these terms are clear and try to negotiate to make them as favorable as possible. Best case scenario, you do not need a landlord’s permission to transfer a lease, which will allow you to make a deal if need be without worrying about pleasing your landlord.

#6 Try to Get a Cap Fees that increase annually can become a major burden for businesses in long term leases. Try to negotiate for a cap on management and operating fees based on a percentage of your rent. Caps like these can be difficult to get, especially in thriving markets, but they are still worth trying for.

While startups are not in the best position to negotiate great leases, it is still possible to come out with something favorable for your business with a little negotiation smarts.

If your business is looking for office space for rent in Kansas City, give Kathy Woodward at DDI Commercial a call at 913-685-4100!

3 Technology Tips For Small Businesses in Office Space in Kansas

Technology can be both a blessing and a curse for many businesses, but this does not have to be the case if you really brainstorm what your business needs and find the right tools to carry it out. Here are a few technologies that have proved really helpful for small businesses, as suggested in the article “3 must-have tech assets for your small business”:

Cloud Storage. Storing all of your documents in servers onsite can really take up space and slow down your computers, so consider taking advantage of cloud storage, in which you access your records through the internet. This allows the added bonus of flexibility, since you can access files anytime and anywhere.
Mobility. Along with cloud storage, the use of smartphones and tablets can really help small businesses to be mobile, meaning they can be more responsive to customers, more able to collaborate regardless of location, and more able to be out working wherever they are needed.
Web Security. So much work today involves utilizing the internet, and malware and infections from websites can really set a company’s productivity back. Reduce risk for your business by investing in good web security software.

Small businesses who make technology work for them in a positive way can really set themselves above the competition.

If your business is interested in office suites for rent in Overland Park, give Kathy Woodward at DDI Commercial a call at 913-685-4100!

5 Tips for Upping Productivity at Your Office Space in Kansas

Sometimes the key to getting more work done is not putting in more hours, but working smarter. Here are a few tips for making the most of your workday so that you can get more done and still enjoy your personal time, as suggested in the article “5 Ways To Be More Productive”:

1.Turn back the alarm clock. This can be hard to do as the days get shorter and the mornings get darker, but it is one of the easiest ways to get more done. Try to get up just 30 minutes earlier, then try an hour if you can. This will add a total of 5 hours to your workweek without requiring you to stay at the office late. You might use that time simply to check emails, exercise, or get the kids ready for school, but regardless of what you do it will take the frantic edge off of busy days.

2.Block out distractions. In this age of technology, it is so tempting to constantly be checking texts, social media updates, online news stories, and more. But one step towards higher productivity is making the conscious decision to turn everything off for a little while. You can schedule small breaks for yourself for these activities if need be, or try noise cancelling headphones to help block out the day-to-day sounds of the office for a while.

3.Have the supplies you need. Make sure that your work area is properly equipped with everything you need to do your work efficiently. Maybe it is time to restock on pens or paper clips, to get an external hard drive so that your computer isn’t so full, or maybe just untangle all of the cords that seem to knot themselves together under a desk.

4.Make to-do lists. It seems like an obvious tip, but so few people do it, which means that they either forget things all of the time or have remarkable memories. Whether it is on a sticky note or in a planner, try to keep a to-do list for yourself that includes both immediate daily tasks and overall weekly tasks.

5.Give yourself a break. It is important to occasionally take a break in order to sustain focus for a long day of work. Studies suggest that short and intense work sessions are actually more productive then working at something for a long period of time. Try to work for 90 minutes straight without any breaks or distractions, then walk away from work completely for a little while—have a snack, a cup of coffee, or even try to get a little workout in if you can. You’ll come back to your desk fresh and ready to work again.

If you are feeling like you are constantly behind and unfocused, try out a few of these tips for making better use of your time!

If your business is interested in executive office rental in Overland Park, give Kathy Woodward at DDI Commercial a call at 913-685-4100!

8 Tech Tips for Your Office Space in Kansas City

Technology in an office can be a fickle thing to deal with, but in this day and age, it is so necessary to have fully functioning technology at all times. Here are a few common problems with technology that arise in offices, as well as tips for how to troubleshoot, as outlined in the articles “Toby’s Tech Tips: Part 1 & Part 2”:

#1 Slow Computers

Slow performing computers are extremely common tech complaints, but fortunately a little maintenance can usually speed things up. One explanation is that your computer is experiencing a virus, but if you rule out this option, it is more likely that you are using too much data storage. Storing essential personal and work related documents is so important, but you can save space by moving documents that you don’t need frequently to either a USB device or an external hard drive in order to free up space on your computer. If you find files that you do not need, don’t be afraid to put them in the “Recycle Bin.”

#2 Too Many Windows

If you are losing efficiency because you constantly have multiple windows open on your computer, consider getting another monitor. You can even set up dual monitors in the same stand, and these monitors can swivel, rotate, and tilt to adjust to your preferences. You might find that you can increase your productivity without decreasing your desk space.

#3 Trouble with Email Attachments

If you are having issues with email, particularly opening attachments, you might want to look into a software upgrade. If your software is outdated, the files you are trying to open might no longer be compatible with what you are using.

#4 Printer Problems

These always seem to arise at the worst possible times, but there are a few quick fixes you can try. First is simply turning the computer off and on, but if this doesn’t work, try unplugging it altogether and then plugging it back in. You can also double click the printer icon on your computer to check the print queue and see if there are several documents waiting.

#5 Download Speeds

If your computer is taking way too much time to download things from the internet, you might check to see that you aren’t downloading or uploading things without knowing it. Sometimes torrent programs run in the background of your computer and are minimized to your systems tray–without you even noticing them.

#6 Unreliable Wi-Fi

The first step when dealing with unreliable Wi-Fi is to check to see if your router or your computer is the problem. If it is just a matter of improving the signal strength from your router, look into purchasing a Wi-Fi range extender, which can strengthen the signal from a router in different parts of a building.

#7 Laptop Upgrades

If you are frustrated with your laptop but still unsure of whether to make the leap to a tablet, consider some devices that are somewhere in between. Many laptops with full keyboards also feature touchscreens that can rotate 360 degrees, giving you some of the best features of both options. If you know you want to be on the go and work from something smaller altogether, then maybe downsizing to a tablet is the best option for you—look into your choices to see what will serve you best.

#8 Losing Power

Sometimes documents can be lost simply because of the battery dying on your computer—inadvertently erasing hours of hard work. One way to prevent this from happening is to look into a UPS (uninterruptable power supply), which gives you time to back up your work before losing power.

Consider trying some of these tips if you are having tech problems in your office!

If your business is interested in office space for rent in Kansas City, give Kathy Woodward at DDI Commercial a call at 913-685-4100!

6 Things to Look For When Touring Commercial Realty In Kansas City

When searching for commercial office space for lease, it is essential to take a tour of all properties before singing anything so that you know exactly what is included in the space. Be sure to make yourself a checklist of things to investigate before you go to a space so that you can make sure it meets all of your requirements and easily compare it to other spaces. Here are six things to check for when you are looking at a prospective location, as suggested in the article “Commercial Real Estate Corner”:

Safety. A safe environment is a top priority in any kind of space, and a landlord’s concern for safety should be apparent on a tour. Check for locks on both doors and windows, lighting in parking lots in common areas, and cameras or a watch staff for after hours. You can also ask about getting access to any incident records.
Handicap Accommodations. Make sure that the premises are equipped with elevators, wheelchair ramps, wide entry doors, and handicap accessible restrooms in order to sure that all guests and employees feel welcome and comfortable. If these accommodations or not present, keep in mind that adding them could be quite expensive.
Condition of the Space. Check to see if the space is in good physical condition by looking for any signs of structural issues or problems with tenants. Check for unpleasant stains, odors, or cracks. Don’t hesitate to ask the landlord about anything you see before agreeing to sign the lease.
Common Space. Check to make sure that common areas that are not technically in your office space are still well maintained, including restrooms, elevators, lobbies, and hallways, as these spaces will still make an impression on visitors.
Amenities and Services. Find out if there are businesses nearby that could be convenient for your company, such as a bank or an office supply provider, or even places that our employees might like to be near, such as gyms, restaurants, coffee shops, or day care.
Parking Lots. Check to make sure that there is enough parking for both your clients and employees, and make sure you are aware of any parking fees, versus what is included in the lease. If weather is an issue in your location, ask about snow plowing services.

Be sure to include these essential items on your checklist as you tour spaces!

If your business is interested in setting up a tour of an office rental space in Kansas City, give Kathy Woodward at DDI Commercial a call at 913-685-4100.

3 Terms You Need to Know Before Entering Negotiations for a Small Office Lease in Kansas City

Before entering negotiations for a commercial space, educate yourself on how negotiations work and the ways you can be a better negotiator. Here are a few terms to know, as defined in the article “Develop Negotiating Skills”:

#1 Market Comparables

Market comparables are the prices of spaces in recent similar transactions. By determining the market comparables for your space, you can have a benchmark to reference for what is roughly paid for those types of spaces. You might use a commercial real estate broker to help you determine these numbers. However, bear in mind that your landlord might make a case for charging a higher price than other recent market comparables if they believe a space offers added benefits beyond those other spaces.

#2 Pricing Power

Both you and the landlord might have pricing power, which is what distances you from competition. For instance, a landlord might be charging a higher price for a space, but might still have more pricing power than another landlord with a lower priced space because they have established themselves as fair and reliable. Or perhaps they are in a better location. You might also have pricing power as a tenant if you have a history of long stable rentals or are a better fit with other businesses on a property than a competing tenant. However, pricing power only goes so far in commercial real estate deals, because often prices are largely determined by the market. Because of this it is still essential for landlords to try to offer the lowest prices.

#3 Deal Points

A deal point is a non-negotiable item that is make-or-break in agreeing to a lease. Both sides usually come to the table with a few deal points, so it is essential to determine early on what these issues are for each party. For instance, a landlord might insist on a certain type of lease, such as triple net, or adjustments to rent that take into account inflation over the years. A tenant might insist on the right to sublease, or a provision that allows them to break the lease if an anchor tenant leaves the property.

An understanding of how negotiations work can help you determine what is truly a good deal for your business or when to walk away.

If you want to learn more about available office space for rent in Kansas City, give Kathy Woodward at DDI Commercial a call at 913-685-4100.

Factors to Consider Before Leasing A Large Office Space in Kansas City

Business of all sizes have to carefully consider the size of a space before moving in, since the growth of your business could be seriously affected by the size of your space. It is important to look at both the pros and cons of leasing a smaller or larger office space. If you are expecting your business to grow in the near future, a larger space might be the best choice because you can simply expand into more of your own office space, rather than restart the exhausting process of finding a new space. Here are some factors to consider if you are looking into a bigger office space for your business, as suggested in the article “How to Think About Your Square Footage Needs”:

Equipment – A larger office space also means adding more equipment without crowding the people in your office. You can also add and adjust other amenities that might not be possible in a smaller space, such as waiting rooms or meeting rooms.
Lease Length – You can also think big by singing a long term lease. The benefit of a longer lease is stability—you know that you will not have to spend time in the near future finding a new space.
Rent – Another benefit of a long term lease is that you might get a better rental rate, since landlords do not want to spend time dealing with frequent tenant turnover.
Pitfalls – The obvious negative side of a larger space is the higher cost for more square footage. You will also sacrifice the flexibility associated with short term leases.

Consider each of these factors if you are thinking about moving your business into a space that leaves room to grow!

If you are interested in office rental space in Kansas City, give Kathy Woodward at DDI Commercial a call at 913-685-4100!

4 Ways to Find the Best Small Office Lease in Kansas City for Your Business

Moving out of the home office into a real rental space can be an exciting sign of growth and success for small businesses. Trends in the commercial real estate market will come and go, but regardless of the market getting a good deal requires being a sharp scout. Check out these tips for seeking out the best possible space for your small business, as suggested in the article “The Do’s and Don’ts of Renting Office Space”:

#1 Consider Your Size

While your time in a cramped home office might have made you dream of large spaces, be prudent when estimating how much space you will actually need. Some experts recommend around 200 SF per employee, but you might be able to manage with less depending on what your budget allows.

There are a few other options besides renting your own space if you have only a few employees. One option is sharing an office suite that already includes furniture and equipment. The fees might be high for a space like this; it typically includes services like internet, phone, copying, and fax, but this might mean that your business can devote its money and energy to other things as you navigate the startup phase. Another option would be to sublet space from another business, which would mean splitting some of the building costs, and you might even be able to use some furniture and other equipment.

#2 Stay Flexible on Lease Length

As a general rule, small businesses should steer clear of long term leases, as they could wreak havoc on your finances if your business does not grow as predicted. Oh the other hand, if your business grows too much, you will be stuck in a cramped space if you committed to a long term lease. A short term lease is most ideal for small businesses, and the best case scenario would be renting with a landlord who can offer properties of different sizes and might even allow your business to move to another floor or nearby space after a few years of growth.

#3 Don’t Ignore the Details

It is important to not only fully read but to fully understand all of your lease terms. You will want to double check to make sure that nothing you are doing is violating those terms, whether it is a window sign, to hours of operation, to equipment usage. It might not be a bad idea to ask an attorney to look over your paperwork, such as the work letter and the lease itself, just to make sure you did not miss anything that will come back to hurt your business.

#4 Consider Clustering

While it might seem counterintuitive at first glance, choosing a location near businesses similar to yours—called clustering—might actually have its advantages. Especially with startup businesses, collaboration can be crucial, and even competition for customers can foster growth for both businesses, such as when gas stations set up on opposite corners. Sometimes research oriented companies decide to work near each other so they can share equipment, discuss best practices, and even collaborate on new ideas. Retail businesses group together so as to be a “one-stop shop” for customers.

The downsides of clustering include the threat of competitors stealing information or employees, so it is important to think about the kind of business you have and how you attract customers and employees before deciding to cluster.

Finding that first office space outside the home can be a make-or-break move for small businesses, so make sure that you research carefully and find out what different options are available to you!

If you would like to learn more about office suites for rent in Kansas City, give Kathy Woodward at DDI Commercial a call at 913-685-4100!

10 Tips for Tenants Seeking Office Rental Space in Kansas City

Finding an office rental space requires consideration of many factors: finances, location, property rules, and so much more. Here are ten suggestions from the article “Office Space Leasing Tips” to help you consider a property from several different angles:

How close are amenities and services you might need, such as lunch places or dry cleaners?
Check out the building’s directory to find out what kinds of tenants you will be sharing a building with. Know the quirks of these businesses, such as the fact that telemarketers are often in and out for 24 hours a day, and tenants who practice medicine might take up a lot of parking at certain times a day.
Be aware of the parking options in the space. Do you have to pay for spots in a parking structure? Will your customers/clients have to pay for parking? Calculate what the cost of parking would add to your rental rate.
Make sure your lease is thorough and that you understand all of it. Do not go for a short lease in the hopes of making it more readable, which may lead to confusion if certain issues arise. Instead make sure that you cover every potential problem and understand clearly the expectations and repercussions.
Know the rules for the property and any zoning laws so that you can make sure they do not conflict with the way you operate your business.
Insurance is a tricky but essential part of moving into a new space, as you are most at risk for theft in a new or unfamiliar setting. Make sure that you are fully covered by the time you move in.
Signage is in important thing to factor into the cost of a space, because it can be expensive. Be sure that you also understand what the rules are for signage in a space.
Make sure you visit the property at night to check on safety issues and lighting. Take others with you to get second opinions.
Check to see if your location is easy to find by asking someone to find the property who does not already know where it is. This will simulate what a customer or client might experience when trying to seek you out.
Look into sub-leasing opportunities from current tenants in the building. Landlords typically want to lease their vacant spaces first, but you might get a good deal by investigating all of your options in the building.

Start the process early to leave yourself plenty of time to consider all of these issues!

If your business is interested in Kansas City office space for rent, give Kathy Woodward at DDI Commercial a call at 913-685-4100 to set up a tour of one of our available spaces!

3 Tips for Finding the Best Desks for Your Office Space in Kansas City

When purchasing desks for an office space, you will want to consider both the impression they will have on any customers or clients that see them and also the comfort of your employees. Be sure to give special consideration to desks that will be most visible, such as the receptionist’s desk or ones where clients/customers will work with employees. Consider also what kinds of desks will help your employees be most productive. Here are a few factors to consider when picking out desks, as suggested in the article “Making the Most of Office Desks”:

Balance trendiness with functionality. Don’t pick something so artistic and trendy that it sacrifices serious functionality. Look for items that embrace a modern aesthetic, but still have enough room for a computer and a comfortable amount of workspace.
Check out custom made desks. One popular trend in office spaces is having desks custom made for the office. This allows workers who require desks with specific features to get exactly what they need, thus maximizing productivity.
Consider putting in work stations. Cubicles are going out of fashion, and collaboration is the new trend. Try for workstations that are more open and allow for interaction and exchange of ideas.

Take the time to pick out furniture that will be both visually impressive and useful for employees!

Give Kathy Woodward at DDI Commercial a call at 913-685-4100 to find out more about our office suites for rent in Overland Park!