On a few occasions I have a new client who has unsuccessfully tried to look for office space on his own, gotten frustrated and called me. Our meeting to discuss potential buildings goes like this:
Elizabeth: Did you look at Building A or Building B?
Client: Well, I called the leasing agent several times and they wouldn’t call me back. I stopped by the building and the security guard gave me their card so I sent them an email but I didn’t hear back from them.
I cannot speak for all leasing agents, but it amazes me that some will let a deal like that slip through their fingers. They have a company not being represented who obviously likes the building. Why would the leasing agent ignore them? Actually there are a couple of reasons:
- They don’t have a space your size and can’t be bothered with telling you that. Yes, it’s Miami, we have a well-founded reputation of being the rudest city in the country.
- You make them suspicious. Tenants inquiring about Class A buildings who are larger than 2,000 SF are typically represented by a broker. If you are doing it alone, you have no credibility with them. They make assumptions about your ability to afford their space or the viability of your company without ever meeting you. Yes, it’s a Miami thing.
Now here is what is really ridiculous. I can pick up the phone, call the same leasing agent and get a response within 24 hours. I’ll have rates, floor plans and a tour set up. Why, because they know I’ve been doing this for 20 years and I have a reputation of integrity. So rather than beating your head against the wall trying to deal with the building’s leasing agent, give me a call or shoot me an email. The hassle of leasing office space ends once you hire me.
1 Comment
Great insights!