The Ultimate Workplace Real Estate Checklist: Finding the Perfect Location for Your Business
“Choosing the right location for your workplace is just as crucial as the building itself. This comprehensive checklist helps you navigate the process of finding the perfect spot for your growing business, ensuring accessibility, convenience, and a thriving professional environment. ”
When it comes to finding the perfect workplace for your growing business, the famous real estate mantra "location, location, location" holds true. The location of your future office and the surrounding neighborhood play a crucial role in the success and well-being of your company and employees. To help you navigate this process, we've compiled a comprehensive checklist based on the expert knowledge of Jennifer Knowles, WOX's Head of Workplace.
Public Transportation Accessibility
In today's urban landscape, many employees rely on various modes of public transportation to get to work, such as buses, trains, subways, or ferries. Some even opt for more active commutes, using bikes, scooters, or skateboards. When evaluating a potential office location, ensure that it is easily accessible via multiple transportation options. If your dream space lacks accessibility, consider offering company shuttles or rideshare credits to make commuting more convenient for your staff.
Walk Score: Measuring Walkability
The Walk Score is a valuable tool that measures the walkability of any address on a scale from 0 to 100. Simply type your potential building address into Walk Score to see how it ranks. Aim for a score of 90 or higher to ensure that your new location has everything your employees need within walking distance, promoting a more active and sustainable lifestyle.
Neighborhood Amenities: More Than Just Perks
Take a close look at the neighborhood offerings surrounding your prospective office. Are there quality shops, gyms, drug stores, supermarkets, cafes, and restaurants nearby? These amenities may not directly impact your bottom line, but they are essential to the well-being and satisfaction of your employees. A vibrant neighborhood with diverse offerings can also be a significant draw for attracting and retaining top talent.
Industry Relevance and Networking Opportunities
Surrounding yourself with relevant companies in your industry can provide valuable networking opportunities and enhance your business's reputation. For example, a tech company may thrive in downtown San Francisco, while a financial institution might prefer the Financial District of a major city. Being in a neighborhood that is friendly towards your industry makes it easier for your employees to make connections and attend industry events, ultimately benefiting your company's growth and success.
Parking Considerations
Don't overlook the importance of parking options when evaluating a potential office location. Assess the availability of parking garages, lots, or designated outdoor spaces. Determine if there are enough spots for every employee who drives to work, or if you'll need to implement a lottery system to allocate spaces fairly. If parking is limited or unavailable, refer back to the public transportation accessibility point to ensure your employees have alternative commuting options.
In addition to location, there are several other factors to consider when searching for your next office space, such as fiber networks, HVAC systems, elevator availability, security, and emergency systems. To help you keep track of all these essential elements, download our interactive Workplace Real Estate Checklist. This comprehensive guide will assist you in evaluating potential office spaces and ensuring that your new workplace meets all your business's needs.
Finding the perfect location for your workplace is a critical step in fostering a productive, collaborative, and thriving professional environment. By considering factors such as public transportation accessibility, walkability, neighborhood amenities, industry relevance, and parking, you can make an informed decision that benefits both your company and your employees. Happy office hunting!
