Renting a Space for Your Massage Business
Looking to rent space?
At some point or another, you'll probably find yourself looking at office space to rent. It can be a big, scary experience and totally overwhelming if you're not prepared for it.
Bring this list, and use it. Go through it while you're in the space. Yes, be a geek with a piece of paper and pen, checking off the list and making notes as you chat with the person showing you the space.
Before your visit, review the requirements for state establishment licensure, if applicable. Bring a tape measure and if you're nervous, bring a trustworthy friend.
Drive by the location at different times of day and note the parking, local noise levels, activity of neighboring businesses.
- Is the location near where your ideal clients are?
- How does the place look from outside?
- Is there adequate parking?
- What's the signage like and will you be able to put your own up?
- Is the entrance well marked and obvious? Handicap accessible?
- Who are the office neighbors, and what are their hours?
- Are there shared spaces, common areas like waiting area or bathroom?
- Who exactly shares these spaces?
- Who is responsible for their upkeep?
- What is the distance from bathroom to treatment room?
- What is the size of the treatment room, including ceiling height?
- Where is thermostat located, do you have direct access, are there 'shared zones'?
- What design/decorating changes would you be allowed to make?
- How long have current tenants been there?
Take note of
- door locks
- wall color
- type of flooring
- windows, doors, emergency exits that can't be blocked
- number of electrical outlets and their location
Does rent include
- heat
- air conditioning
- electric
- hot water
- snow removal
- if not included in the rent, what are the typical utility costs for the space?
- Is it wired for internet/cable?
What are the terms of the lease? Is it triple net? if so, what are the typical costs of that?
Who handles repairs and maintenance emergencies? Are they available 24/7?
What are the COVID-19 factors? How many common surfaces will your client have to touch coming in and out of your space and who is responsible for maintaining them. What kind of filters are installed in the intake vents, and how is the ventilation overall? Do the windows open, and are there good screens in them?
Post-visit thoughts
Who showed you the space? Were they nice? Was it the person who you'll be dealing with regularly if you choose this space and how do you feel about that?
How much work is involved in making the place functional for you?
What will that cost and how long will it take?
Each space will have pros and cons, this is an opportunity to explore and decide what is most important to you, for your massage space.