The Cost of Getting It Wrong
In a fast-moving business world, choosing the right office can feel like speed dating: exciting, urgent — and risky.
For many business owners, space is just space. But after years of working with growth-stage teams and seasoned decision-makers, I’ve seen this: The wrong office can silently drain your team’s morale, budget, and momentum.
Let’s talk about the 6 most common (but avoidable) mistakes — and what savvy tenants do instead.
1. Rushing the Process
You’re under pressure. The lease is expiring, or your team is outgrowing the current space. So you move fast. Too fast.
What happens:
You overlook key alignment with stakeholders. You skip deeper due diligence. You fall in love with the look — but forget the long game.
Smart move:
Pause. Define the real business needs — not just floor size, but team flow, branding, client impression, and future flexibility. Involve the team early.
2. Delaying Too Long
Ironically, some do the opposite — they over-analyze and wait until options vanish.
What happens:
You’re left choosing between leftover units or paying a premium for urgent fit-outs. Timelines collapse. Stress builds.
Smart move:
Start your search at least 6–9 months before lease expiry. Lock in the right space, not the leftover space.
3. Chasing “Mr Perfect” – The Unicorn Office That Doesn’t Exist
Everyone wants the dream office: CBD location, city view, corner unit, fitted, with perfect rent. But perfect doesn’t just show up — it’s built or secured early.
What happens:
You chase endlessly. And waste time rejecting great options that tick 80% of the boxes.
Smart move:
Prioritize. Know your non-negotiables. Be flexible on aesthetics — and firm on functionality, layout, and team needs.
4. Underestimating Future Growth
It fits today. But what about a year from now?
What happens:
Teams quickly outgrow the space, leading to expensive renovations, second offices, or another move.
Smart move:
Plan with a 3–5 year growth lens. Choose modular or expandable layouts. Even hybrid work needs smart design.
5. Ignoring Daily Practicalities – Location, Toilets, Food, Access
That trendy space with the cool façade? Not so cool when there’s no parking, weak aircon, or lunchtime food deserts.
What happens:
Team satisfaction drops. Hiring suffers. Clients notice.
Smart move:
Ask: How’s the daily experience? Check transport access, toilets, lifts, noise levels, food options, and even lighting.
6. Overlooking Hidden Costs
That base rent might look attractive. But what about fit-out, reinstatement, approvals, cleaning, utilities, and compliance?
What happens:
You blow past budget. The “cheap” deal ends up expensive.
Smart move:
Ask for a full cost breakdown — before signing. Clarify scope for submission plans (e.g. single-line drawings, fire safety, change-of-use). Negotiate clarity, not just price.
The Clarity to Choose Wisely
Choosing an office isn’t just about space — it’s about vision, team experience, and readiness to grow.
Smart tenants don’t search blindly. They plan, align, and execute with clarity.
They avoid emotional decisions and focus on impact.
If you’re planning a move or thinking about your next space, I’d love to share more insights — or walk the journey with you.
After all, your office shouldn’t just work. It should work for you. A space that elevate your team performance.
