If you are looking for an office space for your startup or new division, these tips can help you make the best decision without making the process all too complicated. In Metro Manila, particularly in Ortigas, you won’t have a lot of trouble finding acommercial space for an office. But not all commercial spaces are ideal for office work. Hence, here are some of the best tips that you need to remember when looking for a new office:
Location, location, location
Location is crucial. You don’t want your clients or suppliers to have a hard time finding your business. At the same time, you don’t want employees to go through a needle’s eye just to get to work.
Find a location that is accessible to major transportation terminals so that they can commute to and from work easily. An accessible commercial space in the metro can be expensive, but if the nature of your business deals with clients and suppliers regularly, it’s an excellent investment.
Determine your budget
Before you start looking for office spaces, determine how much money you will be putting into the advance and rent (if you’re leasing) or the down and monthly payments (if you’re buying). Take other costs into consideration as well, such as hidden costs, parking fees, minor repairs, furnishing, Internet/phone installments, etc.
Consider the space
Most startups will start with a small office. But just because you can afford only limited space doesn’t mean that you can’t have a great office. Whendesigning your office, here are some tips that you may want to consider:
- Get rid of unnecessary walls and partitions to make the space seem bigger.
- Choose space-saving furniture; avoid chunky ones.
- Use wall space for storage.
- Go minimalist with decorations to make your office uncluttered.
- Install mirrors to give the illusion of a bigger space.
- Let as much natural light in
Check the amenities
Aside from the basic welfare amenities for your employees (bathroom, pantry, break room, etc.), check if the commercial space has sufficient parking for employees and clients, wheelchair accessibility, elevator access, nearby food options, and others.
Ensure safety
When inspecting a potential office space, don’t forget to consider safety as well. Are there enough fire exits in the building? Are there too many power lines in front of the building that may cause or spread a fire? Is the area secure? Are there heavy objects that might fall over in case of an earthquake?
Take the age of the building into account as well. Unless the maintenance is kept up to par, older buildings may be more prone to danger, especially amidst natural disasters or fires.
Assess neighbors
Assess other companies or businesses operating in the same area. Are there any direct competitors? Is the population too dense for your liking? Will there be a shortage of parking spaces? Make sure to observe the surrounding areas carefully as you look for commercial spaces for your office.
Looking for a new office for your startup is no easy feat. But if you use these suggestions your advantage, you can find a highly strategic, affordable, and employee-friendly office space in no time.
