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A professional real estate broker can be of great help finding rental space for your business, especially if your landlord will have one, and particularly if your needs are unique or commercial space is at a premium. Before choosing a broker or signing a contract, it’s important to understand the different roles brokers play, how to interview brokers and check references, what important contract terms to consider, and how to deal with any problems that may arise.

Introduction to Brokers

Before you decide to hire a commercial real estate broker, learn more about who they are and what they actually do.

Different Roles for Commercial Real Estate Brokers
Since commercial real estate brokers can function in different ways, it pays to know exactly what role a broker is playing in a landlord-tenant transaction.

How Commercial Real Estate Brokers Work
Many small business owners find it invaluable to enlist a professional real estate broker’s help in finding rental space, especially if your landlord will have one, and particularly if your needs are unique or space is at a premium.

Working with a Commercial Real Estate Broker

Once you've chosen to hire a broker, you'll want to learn how to pick the best one and what to watch out for.

How to Look for a Commercial Real Estate Broker
Before starting your search for rental space, think carefully about the kind of location and building that will best suit your business, determine the maximum rent you’re willing to pay, and set other priorities, such as the size and configuration of the rental space.

Signing a Contract With a Commercial Real Estate Broker
Just as there’s no such thing as a standard lease, there’s no such thing as a standard broker’s contract. It’s all negotiable (how negotiable depends on the size and type of your business, the local real estate market, and other factors).

Handling Problems With Your Commercial Real Estate Broker
If you’re careful when choosing a broker and spell out your agreement in a contract, you’ll reduce the chances of disputes later—but there’s no guarantee that all will be smooth sailing.