COMMERCIAL LEASING FAQ
Good questions. Clear answers.
The questions tenants and landlords ask before a commercial leasing decision in Toronto and the GTA.
How do I start looking for commercial space in Toronto or the GTA?
Begin with your operating requirements, not just a location or asking rent. Identify your permitted use, preferred area, layout, access, parking, loading, power needs, budget for total occupancy costs and intended move. A consultation turns these priorities into a search brief and identifies matters to verify before committing.
What does tenant representation involve?
Tenant representation focuses on the business seeking leased space: defining requirements, considering locations, comparing proposals, communicating commercial terms and coordinating due diligence. The scope of services, agency relationship and any remuneration should be discussed and documented before proceeding.
Do you also represent commercial landlords?
Yes. Landlord representation covers positioning space, preparing marketing information, managing inquiries and discussing proposed terms. Representation is established for each engagement. Potential conflicts and any permitted representation arrangements must be addressed before proceeding; this does not mean acting for both sides of the same transaction by default.
What is the difference between a gross, net and triple net lease?
A gross lease generally bundles specified property costs into rent. Net leases allocate some costs separately to the tenant. Triple net commonly separates property taxes, building insurance and maintenance or operating costs from base rent. Labels are not a substitute for reading the agreement: inclusions, exclusions, adjustments and responsibility for major repairs can differ.
What costs should I consider beyond base rent?
Depending on the agreement, consider additional rent, utilities, applicable taxes, insurance, parking, maintenance, fit out, permits, moving and restoration obligations. Ask how operating costs are estimated, reconciled and supported. Your accountant and lawyer can help assess the financial and contractual implications.
How long does it take to lease commercial space?
There is no dependable universal timeline. Space suitability, approvals, landlord and tenant reviews, negotiation, legal documentation and construction can all affect the schedule. Start with your target operating date and work backward through the dependencies; no completion date is guaranteed.
How are brokerage fees or commissions handled?
Remuneration depends on the representation agreement and transaction arrangements. Discuss who pays, when payment is due, what services are included and any obligations if a transaction does not proceed. Do not assume tenant representation is automatically free or that a particular fee arrangement applies.
Can I negotiate tenant improvements or renewal options?
These items can be discussed, but their availability and terms depend on the parties and premises. Improvement allowances may carry conditions, deadlines or repayment obligations. Renewal options can require strict notice and may specify a rent setting process. Have your lawyer review the wording rather than relying on a verbal understanding.
What should I check before signing a commercial lease?
Confirm permitted use, zoning and required approvals; inspect the premises and its systems; understand occupancy costs, repair responsibilities and insurance; review possession, fit out, renewal, assignment and restoration terms. A commercial real estate lawyer should review offers and lease documents before you enter a binding commitment.
Can you guarantee a lease rate or negotiation result?
No. Rates, terms, timing and other outcomes depend on the property, parties and transaction circumstances. Representation helps you evaluate choices and communicate your objectives; it cannot guarantee concessions, approval or a completed lease.
Do you publish available spaces or property listings?
No. This website explains commercial leasing services and provides general education. It does not publish property listings, inventory or availability. Discuss your requirements directly to establish the next steps for a specific leasing engagement.
Which areas and property types do you serve?
Services cover Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area for office, retail and industrial/flex leasing. Location suitability depends on your business and the premises: customer access, staff travel, logistics, permitted use and building infrastructure each matter more than a neighbourhood label alone.
YOUR NEXT MOVE
Let’s talk about your space.
A location. A business requirement. A leasing decision.
Start with a focused conversation.