Whether you’re looking for the perfect retail space or a new office for your startup, having the right commercial real estate broker can be the key to success. An experienced agent will have an in-depth knowledge of the market and exclusive access to premium buildings. Because the quality of your broker can make all the difference, ask the following questions before deciding who to hire.

What to Ask Before Choosing a Commercial Broker

How much of your work involves commercial properties?

The commercial real estate field requires an entirely different skill set and market knowledge than residential properties. Choose a broker who specializes in commercial properties over one who focuses primarily on home sales.

How much experience do you have working with businesses like mine?

Some brokers concentrate on office buildings, while others focus mostly on industrial or retail spaces. You’ll usually get better results with a broker who regularly deals with businesses in your sector and knows what you’re looking for. In many cases, they’ll already have a list of properties that perfectly match your needs.

How long have you been working in this market?

Developing a comprehensive knowledge of a real estate market and cultivating contacts takes time and dedication. An agent who has worked in the market for years will usually provide a higher level of service and give better advice than someone who just moved to town.

Do you have a list of references?

Any real estate broker should be glad to give you a list of previous clients who were thrilled with the services they received. After getting the references, get in touch with a few of the businesses. Ask if they’re satisfied with the location they found, if the broker helped negotiate the lease, and if any issues came up along the way.

If you’re looking for the ideal location for a business in New York City, Jeffrey Anderson, Associate Broker, Capital Real Estate Advisor, has the expertise and professional insight you need. As a credentialed architect and designer, he has the breadth of experience and insight to meet any challenge. Visit his website for more information about his services, or call (917) 568-9642 to discuss your commercial real estate needs with an industry professional.