Commercial Lease Lengths: How Long Should Your Term Be?

Exterior image of a new strip mall with empty shops waiting for tenants to sign commercial lease agreements.

Most landlords prefer signing long-term leases because it’s challenging to find tenants. Landlords would like to keep a good tenant for as long as possible. As a business owner, you may not be ready to sign a 10-year lease. How long of a lease should you sign? Should you ask for a shorter agreement or … Read more

Understanding Commercial Real Estate Underwriting

A hand turns a wooden cube with YES or NO written on it as an answer to the cubes before it that spell out RISK.

You kept an eagle eye on commercial real estate listings. You found and toured a property that’s perfect for your business or investment portfolio. You’re ready to take the next step and make it yours. You’ll likely need a real estate loan to do so, whether you’re a first-time commercial real estate buyer or a … Read more

Office Building Classifications: Is It Class A, B or C?

Group of creative entrepreneurs and business people working together in modern office.

If you’re in the market for commercial office space, you’ve likely heard people refer to properties as “Class A” and “Class B.” What do these classes mean? Commercial office buildings are categorized based on their age, condition, amenities and location. Many factors—from maintenance to ceiling height—can affect an office building’s classification.  Building classes help commercial … Read more

5 Reasons to Bring Your Business to Branson

View from above of Branson, MO street traffic at night.

Branson, Missouri has earned several monikers since it’s establishment in 1912. It’s been called “The New Nashville” because of its bluegrass and country music roots. While Branson is indeed the “live music capital of the entire universe,” it’s got more than a selection of live shows to draw tourists. Branson is bustling with retailers, restaurants, … Read more

Office Modifications For A Shifting Work Environment

Business people having a video call in office.

Companies with open offices and shared workspaces were significantly affected in 2020. The pandemic caused many to close and establish temporary remote work policies. As health risks remain, large companies and small businesses continue to reconsider their work environments. Employees Enjoy Remote Work Many employees have appreciated—and even thrived—under work-from-home arrangements. Will remote work be … Read more

4 Reasons to Shop Local This Holiday Season

Woman wearing red face mask hangs an open sign on her business's front door.

The holiday season is around the corner. It’s time for good cheer, hot chocolate, twinkling lights, family and giving the perfect gift. Your holiday shopping may look different this year due to the pandemic, but local businesses can help you find Christmas, Hanukkah or Kwanzaa gifts for everyone on your list. New Holiday Shopping Habits … Read more

Can Rent Concessions Help You During COVID-19?

Portrait of young small business man owner with face mask at checkout.

What is a concession in a lease agreement? Good question. One-time rent concessions are usually offered to attract new commercial tenants or entice current tenants to renew their lease. Concessions can come in many forms from offering decreased rent for a period to reducing service fees.  In commercial real estate’s current landscape, concessions on rent … Read more