What landlords like to do is offer tenant improvement dollars, subsidizing renovations for a space, or a period of free rent. "That way word doesn't have to get out that rent is going down," even though effectively it is, Siegel points out. You also may be able to negotiate a limit to future rent increases.
With all the monetary stimulus the economy is receiving, inflation likely will accelerate in coming years. Often lease rates rise in synch with the consumer price index. "Tenants should put a cap on that, saying annual increases aren't to exceed 2 (percent) to 3 percent," Harrington says. "You don't want to get stuck with an 8 percent increase." You often can negotiate an option to expand your space if you need more down the road. And you may be able to get the landlord to pay for management fees, janitorial expenses, maintenance and repairs. Sloan suggests negotiating for perks like parking spots, garbage removal and snow-clearing services if you're in the north.
Small business tenants often aren't aware of how important the security deposit is to a landlord, Siegel says. "Landlords don't want to pay tenant improvement dollars and make other concessions and then get the space handed back to them six months later," he points out. One exception to this rule: subleases. Companies that have too much space and thus must rent some out to other firms often aren't in a position to ask for more than one or two months' rent as a security deposit.
“There are many nuances, such as escalator clauses, renewals, expansions and possible termination rights, where terms can be favorable to you in this economy if you know how to ask. Without a broker, you run the risk of the landlord taking advantage of you. A good broker and a good attorney will protect a tenant." You don't have to spring for a lawyer until you're ready to sign a lease, Siegel says. But he emphasizes the importance of using a real estate attorney. "Attorneys who handle regular corporate legal work might not be the right counsel for a complicated commercial lease," he points out.