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Picture this scenario: A successful accounting firm just received their first annual operating expense reconciliation statement. Despite signing what they thought was a straightforward lease, they’re now facing an unexpected $18,000 increase in their annual occupancy costs. The culprit? Operating expenses they didn’t fully understand when they signed their lease. This scenario plays out more…

Most businesses approach lease renewals like an annual budget review—something to tackle 6-12 months before the deadline. This reactive approach costs money, limits options, and weakens negotiating position. Our proven 24-month methodology has helped numerous professional service firms secure better terms, lower costs, and enhanced flexibility. Clients who start their lease renewal process 24 months…

As we move through 2025, the San Fernando Valley’s commercial real estate market presents a landscape of opportunity for savvy business owners. Understanding current market conditions across the Valley’s key submarkets can help businesses make informed decisions about their real estate needs. Based on the latest market data and our extensive experience serving Los Angeles…

The San Fernando Valley (SFV) has long been a dynamic hub for growing businesses – from media-tech firms in Burbank to startups in Sherman Oaks and Woodland Hills. In today’s post-pandemic market, vacancy rates remain high, giving tenants unusual leverage. For example, SFV office vacancy was roughly 25.8% in late 2024 (down modestly from 26.3%), and even…

As a fixed line time on a company’s financials, Commercial leases represent significant financial commitments and operational impacts for mid-size companies, particularly in dynamic markets like the San Fernando Valley. The local office market is in flux – recent data shows the Valley’s overall office vacancy hovering around 25% with asking rents topping $3 per…

When it comes to leasing office space, law firms have specific needs that go far beyond square footage. Yet, time and time again, even well-established firms fall into the same traps — locking into inflexible terms, underestimating parking needs, or missing opportunities to offset build-out costs. These oversights often stem from relying on landlord agents…

Navigating the complexities of commercial lease agreements can be a daunting task for any tenant. Understanding crucial components of your lease, such as the expiration date and options to renew, is a must for making informed business decisions. By being aware of potential pitfalls and strategic opportunities, you can better manage your lease as a…

Tenants can expect their landlords’ annual Operating Expense Reconciliation (OPEX) and estimates to be forthcoming any moment. Operating Expenses are also referred to as Common Area Cost (CAM) in many leases. One of the most critical items in these statements is ensuring that the accurate Base Year is stated correctly. Base Year The Base Year…

In the wake of the pandemic, office landlords across the nation have faced numerous challenges, particularly in reclaiming occupancy levels that plummeted due to remote work and shifting work patterns. However, recent reports, such as one from Douglas Emmett, one of Los Angeles’ largest office landlords, highlight a new trend: smaller leases are making a…

The Office Rent Paradox: Why Rents Are Rising Despite Record Vacancy Rates The commercial real estate market is facing a paradox: office rents are increasing even with record-high vacancy rates. This situation has left many puzzled. How can rents rise amid so much empty space? The answer lies in historical patterns, tenant behavior, and evolving…