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Articles:: 7-Step Guide To Getting Your Business Premises

Office space rental and cost is increasing. Here is a simple guide to getting the most suitable premises for your business..
1. Understand The Real Estate Market
  • The real estate property market usually lags behind general economic trends.
  • As a result, prices can be relatively high even when the economy is facing a downturn. As a buyer, it is important for you to be well-informed about property market trends.


2. Decide On A Type Of Property

Choosing a suitable type of property will depend on your specific business needs. When deciding on a property, you may want to consider the following:

  • Type Of Business Activity 
    This affects the choice of property suitable for your business activities. Industrial properties mostly include manufacturing spaces while commercial properties include office and retail spaces.
  • Location
    This depends on your need for proximity to your customers, suppliers, central business district, and so on.
  • Relevant Codes And Regulations
    This may affect building plans.
  • Budget
    This determines the property that you can afford.
  • Buy or Rent
    This depends on the way you want to structure your asset portfolio, your budget and most importantly, your business plan and strategy.
  • Terms and conditions relating to purchase/rent
3. Get Professional Advice
  • The easiest way to find out more about a property is to enlist the help of an agent, consultant or developer.
  • They can provide information on available properties in the market, advise you on market prices as well as assist you in the procedures for obtaining a property.



4. Carry Out Due Diligence
  • Before taking any action, you need to carry out due diligence as the real estate market operates under the principle of caveat emptor (i.e. buyers beware)!
  • Some of the things to look out for include:
    • ensure the seller's title is complete and free of mortgages, easements, and so on
    • inspect the land for pollution
    • check Government development plans for possible redevelopment, road widening, etc.
5. Close The Deal
  • A lawyer will be able to assist you in conveyancing matters such as drawing up the proper terms and conditions, and ensuring proper deed transfer.
  • You may also have to register your deed with the Strata Title Board.
6. Obtain Financing
  • If you are buying a property, you will need to pay in full upon closing the deal.  You have a few financing options:
    • take up a mortgage
    • approach property agents and developers for assistance
    • depending on the nature of your business, you may qualify for Government assistance
  • If you are taking a loan for your property purchase, the maximum loan amount for property purchase is 80% of the property's purchase price or its valuation, whichever is lower.
  • The loan period can be up to 20 years if the remaining lease is 30 years or more. 
  • Sometimes, a combination of term loan and overdraft facilities is offered to suit the company's needs.
  • Alternatively, consider renting your business premises - this requires considerably lower capital investment
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