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I’ve learned through representing property owners that leasing a commercial space isn’t just about finding someone willing to pay the rent. The right commercial tenant should make sense for the property, the neighborhood, and the business itself.
Before I market a space, I’m already thinking about the types of businesses that have the best chance of succeeding there. I usually have a shortlist of industries or concepts I’m targeting before the listing ever goes live.
Of course, rent matters. And my job is to help property owners achieve the strongest return possible, but it also has to be realistic. If the rent doesn’t support a healthy business, it’s much harder to attract and retain a great commercial tenant.
Just as important is understanding the neighborhood.
I represented a retail space on 8th Avenue and 21st Street that had previously been occupied by a coffee shop. Instead of looking for another café, I spent time thinking about what the area actually needed.
There was a school just around the corner, so I started looking for businesses that could naturally serve the people already coming through the neighborhood every day. That’s what led us to a bakery that already had a strong online following and an established customer base.
For them, the location wasn’t about starting from scratch. It was about expanding into a space that could support more production, more customers, and continued growth.
It turned out to be a great fit for both the tenant and the owner.
That’s usually how I approach commercial leasing. My goal isn’t simply to fill an empty storefront, but to find a business that’s positioned to succeed.
Because when the tenant succeeds, the property owner benefits too, right?
I’d love to hear your thoughts! Leave them in the comments below or send me a message on Instagram!
xoxo,
Cyn
