A comprehensive checklist to help you find the right space for your business — whether it’s an office, retail store, restaurant, or warehouse. You can tailor it to your specific industry or growth stage. One of our experienced brokers at The Colorado Group can guide you through every step of this checklist — from understanding your business goals to finding a space that truly fits your vision. We help you evaluate locations, negotiate lease terms, and uncover hidden costs that can impact your bottom line. With deep local market insight and decades of experience across office, retail, and industrial properties, our brokers know where to look and what to look for. We handle the details — zoning, building condition, and lease negotiations — so you can stay focused on growing your business. Think of us as your trusted partner in finding not just any space, but the right space for your success.

 1. Define Your Business Needs

•  What type of space do you need (office, retail, warehouse, mixed-use, etc.)?
•  How much square footage do you need (now and for growth)?
•  How many employees or customers will use the space?
•  Do you need private offices, open space, storage, or meeting rooms?
•  What are your technology and infrastructure needs (Wi-Fi, power, HVAC, etc.)?
•  What’s your ideal layout or floor plan?

📍 2. Location Considerations

•  Is the location accessible to your target customers or clients?
•  Is it convenient for employees (commute, parking, public transit)?
•  What’s the local foot traffic like (for retail)?
•  Are there complementary businesses nearby?
•  Is the neighborhood safe and aligned with your brand image?
•  How visible and easy to find is the space (signage, street visibility)?

💰 3. Budget & Costs

•  What’s your total monthly budget (including rent, utilities, insurance, etc.)?
•  Are there hidden costs (CAM fees, maintenance, taxes, etc.)?
•  How does rent compare with similar spaces in the area?
•  Can you negotiate a rent-free or discounted build-out period?
•  Will you need to make renovations or improvements?

📜 4. Lease Terms

•  Length of lease (short-term vs. long-term)?
•  Renewal and exit options?
•  Subleasing or expansion rights?
•  Who covers maintenance and repairs (tenant or landlord)?
•  Restrictions on signage, hours of operation, or modifications?
•  Legal review of the lease by a qualified attorney?

🧰 5. Building Features & Condition

•  Is the building structurally sound and well-maintained?
•  Are HVAC, plumbing, and electrical systems up to code?
•  Are there accessibility features (ADA compliance)?
•  Is the lighting and ventilation adequate?
•  Are there loading docks, elevators, or other operational needs?
•  Does the space allow for future expansion or reconfiguration?

⚡ 6. Zoning & Regulations

•  Is the property zoned for your type of business?
•  Are there permits or licenses required for your operations?
•  Are there noise, signage, or environmental restrictions?
•  Are there any upcoming city developments that could affect your business?

🌱 7. Brand & Customer Experience

•  Does the space reflect your brand image and values?
•  Is the interior design flexible to your vision?
•  Does the location give the right impression to customers/clients?
•  Is there potential for marketing exposure (street view, traffic, nearby attractions)?

🧮 8. Future Growth

•  Will this space still work if you double your team or inventory?
•  Can you easily expand within the same building or nearby?
•  Is the landlord open to lease flexibility as you grow?