Choosing an Office Space

Charlotte and the surrounding area offers an amazing variety of office space. Big, small, Uptown, or up by the lake... your choices are nearly limitless. Yet, as you think about your business, and how you want to work, you can begin to narrow down the possibilities.

You certainly need to have a good, clean environment for your office. But beyond that, you should ask yourself the following questions:

1.) If there is only "office work" being done, (and no manufacturing or retail)?
2.) Do you need a "reception" area where clients would enter and wait for you?
3.) How much space will you need? (Remember, you may want to grow before the lease term is up).
4.) Will you need bathrooms, or can you share bathrooms with other offices in the same building?
5.) How much parking will you need?
6.) How far will you need/do you want to travel? (And how about your employees?)
7.) Do you need a room for computer servers, a conference room, kitchen, or other space?
8.) Do you want an open floor-plan, cubicles, or offices with doors?
9.) Will you frequently have clients in the space?
10.) What technology needs do you have, (i.e. Internet connections, phone service)
11.) What if any build-out will the property owner/management company do to make the space work for you.
12.) How far is the space from main roads, town, the airport, restaurants and other points of interest?
13.) What are the terms of the lease?
14.) Who are the other tenants? (Are they competitors, or partner-businesses?)
15.) How is the common area, landscaping, and parking lot managed?

Choosing the best space for your new office is important for your ability to do your work and succeed as a business. If you would like assistance finding the best office space in Charlotte, Boone, Concord, Myrtle Beach, or Fort Mill, SC, please contact Kuester Companies at 704.973.9019.

Property Manager
Kuester Companies, North and South Carolina

Selecting a Property Management Company

Dear Property Manager,

I currently own a 20,000 square foot office/retail space (can sub by 1000) in Charlotte which will become available in May of this year. I would like to know how to select the right type of property management company. I am planning on handling the advertising/listing portion myself, but would need someone to handle the leasing arrangements, maintenance and rent collection. Thank you.

Charlie J.

Dear Charlie,

First, look around in the neighborhoods or near your building and look who handles the management for those buildings. A lot of the times the property management company will post a sign. Also, you can ask other building owners who they use. Hopefully Kuester will be on your list! Then I recommend you make appointments with the top three that catch your eye. Meet in person with each company, ask them about their experience with property similar to yours, and if they think you are a good fit for them—and then get references.

Then… definitely check those references.

After you have gone through this process, you should be able to choose the best property management company for you—and I do hope you chose us!

Please give contact us today to set up our “interview”. I look forward to hearing from you.


Property Manager
Kuester Property Management

Office Rental Hidden Costs

Dear Kuester –

I am thinking of renting an office space and would like your advice on what issues to be aware of beyond price per square foot and additional hidden fees.

Kenny T.

Dear Kenny –

You are wise to be cautious when renting an office. Be sure that, in your calculations, you have figured in the “hidden costs” you mention such as service charges, heating, air conditioning, lighting, furniture, insurance, and so forth. Once you’ve add in all incremental charges, does it still fit comfortably into your budget?

Another issue to consider is whether the space will serve you over the long term. It may look perfect now, but is it able to accommodate your plans for growth? If you add employees a year or two from now, will it still meet your needs or will a move be required?

Do the premises match your business’ “brand?” Is the building and its occupants consistent with the image you’d like your business to portray? Check what type of neighbors you’ll have and whether their businesses may interfere with “quiet enjoyment” of your space.

Talk to neighboring tenants. Is the building well-maintained? How is it managed, and by whom? Do the managing agents or owners respond quickly if there’s a problem? Are there ongoing issues that haven’t been addressed? What sort of regulations (such as hours of service for a freight elevator) might pose a problem for your business?

Balance location convenience against cost. Many business owners select offices that are remotely located to cut on costs, but discover it’s a false savings. It may be harder to get and keep employees and clients. It can add additional transportation costs for banking, mailing and picking up supplies. Are the amenities nearby adequate to serve your business’ needs (restaurants to which you can take clients, hotels in which they can stay).

Depending on your business, there are many considerations to take into account when renting or leasing office space.

We have been involved in renting, leasing and selling real estate for over 30 years and we’d be happy to offer our expertise to make sure your rental office meets your current and future needs. Please give us a call at 803.802.0004 for an appointment.

Best regards,
Property Manager
Kuester Property Management