{"id":1062,"date":"2017-12-18T15:00:40","date_gmt":"2017-12-18T04:00:40","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.apexei.com.au\/blog\/?p=1062"},"modified":"2026-01-26T18:38:37","modified_gmt":"2026-01-26T07:38:37","slug":"new-office-property-search","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.apexei.com.au\/blog\/new-office-property-search\/","title":{"rendered":"Office Fit Out Checklist – Step 5 Finding the best premises for your business"},"content":{"rendered":"

Now you know where you want your new office to be located, it’s time to start your search for the the best premises for your business.<\/p>\n

It’s likely you have a checklist of must-haves, won\u2019t-haves and nice-to-haves for your next business location. However finding a good looking, workable space that is the right size and price can be challenging.<\/p>\n

Smooth out the whole experience with the following tips:<\/p>\n

Talk to more than one real estate agent<\/h4>\n

Commercial real estate agents are always on the lookout for new building tenants and buyers. They know what is available and what is coming down the pipeline. Once they know what you are looking for, they will be able to give you advice on what will be the\u00a0 best premises for your business.<\/p>\n

Reach out to a few agents to see what their recommendations are. If you don\u2019t know any agents, seek a referral from a friend or business contact.<\/p>\n

Choose your building grade<\/h4>\n

Office structures are generally ranked from A grade to C grade. Usually the type of building you end up in will depend on your budget and the nature of your business.<\/p>\n

An A grade building has the best of everything, including frontage, lifts, bathrooms and common areas. Recently built it will include stylish finishes inside and out. This kind of environment is ideal if your business supplies a premium service.<\/p>\n

B grade buildings will be older but refurbished with modern d\u00e9cor and features. When inspecting a B grade building, check what\u2019s under the surface of the upgrade. New doors and fresh paint are all well and good but look for evidence of inadequate or faulty air conditioning, stained ceiling tiles from water leaks and substandard power and phone installations to name a few.<\/p>\n

Choose C grade and you\u2019ll be working within a building at the lower end of the scale. This will work for you if you are providing a low-cost service or if your office is not customer facing.<\/p>\n

Beware of hidden traps<\/h4>\n

When you move into a new building, you need to apply for a Complying Development Certificate (CDC) or Construction Certificate (CC). There may be unforeseen issues that will cost your business extra time and money.<\/p>\n

Make sure you check the following in your search for the the best premises for your business: (Correct at November 2017, to check the latest rules and regulations, and they do change frequently contact us<\/a> as they are subject to change without notice):<\/p>\n