Negotiating the new normal during the pandemic’s fallout and beyond
Over the past few months, we’ve written a lot about the impact COVID-19 has had on commercial real estate. In a short span, the landscape drastically changed—from commercial real estate (CRE) prospects to rent strategies to strategies for business survival.
Another area that has been affected is the role of tenant advisors. For many tenants, the reasons they chose an advisor in a pre-pandemic world have taken on an urgent and even essential character. And in some ways, tenant reps are uniquely positioned to help businesses manage a new normal characterized by new space requirements, issues, and opportunities.
1. Negotiation
When it comes to tenant broker/advisors, many people believe their sole purpose is to broker lease negotiations. In fact, there are many other benefits. But there is no denying that knowledge of comparable amenities and monthly rents, as well as keeping a wary eye out for hidden fees, lease pitfalls, concessions, and confusing language all come together to assist the tenant in achieving the best terms.
2. Access
It’s common for a tenant to search for available properties on public websites. But these sources are only the tip of the CRE iceberg. A professional and well-seasoned tenant advisor, armed with local market experience and internal tools of the trade, will have greater access to properties, many of which will be better suited to your needs and price range.
3. Networks
Tenant reps, particularly those who are well-established, can recommend a team of experts to assist the tenant in turning a newly leased space into something that meets his or her needs. The importance of this service has grown as businesses must adapt structures to social-distancing requirements. Resources can include architects, designers, space-planning experts, air-quality companies and maintenance contractors.
4. Representation
In most cases, tenant rep fees—just like fees for the listing broker—are covered in the price of the leased space. In other words, landlords already expect that a tenant rep will be part of the process. In transactions without the involvement of a tenant advisor, the landlord’s leasing agent will just be paid more. When a tenant contracts with a qualified advisor, it’s an indication that they are serious about negotiating and will do so in good faith. And the advisor always maintains a constant focus on the tenant’s interests.
5. COVID-19
Ultimately, all of these benefits are tied to the current state of affairs, as COVID-19 has significantly changed the CRE equation. Just a few months ago, it was a landlord’s market. But quarantines have forced landlords and tenants, very often with the assistance of tenant reps, to renegotiate leases to keep both sides of the table afloat.
Now that the economy is re-opening and utilization requirements have changed, tenants have more leverage as landlords compete to fill vacancies with reliable income streams.
Using a tenant advisor representative in South Florida
Tenants in South Florida are finding themselves in a unique position as they work to start new endeavors or save existing ones while navigating leases, re-opening phases, and the spike in new COVID-19 cases. The tenant advisory service at Morris Southeast Group can alleviate the stress of searching for the ideal space and negotiating lease terms, while helping businesses adapt to new requirements.
To learn more about what Morris Southeast Group can do for you now and in the future, call us at 954.474.1776. You can also reach Ken Morris directly at 954.240.4400 or via email at kenmorris@morrissegroup.com.
Tags: COVID-19, CRE/Tenant Benefits, South Florida CRE, Use of Tenant Rep Advisor
