Guide to Equipped Office Space

Equipped office space is a cost-effective alternative office solution for start-up business professionals
By Kristen McClung

Equipped office space is a smart alternative to traditional office space leases. Equipped office spaces offer great advantages like reduced costs for support staff and all-inclusive monthly lease prices. Equipped office spaces are particularly appealing to start-up companies, entrepreneurs and small business professionals who lack capital for equipment and furniture.

Equipped office spaces come fully furnished for quick and easy setup for busy small business professionals. Equipped office space facilities typically provide mail, telephone and internet services and some even offer shared support staff services.

To find the best deal on equipped office spaces, take the time to compare facilities. Pay close attention to the following:

1. Is the equipped office space in a location convenient for you, your staff and your clients? Is the office easy to find and accessible by major roads and highways?

2. What kind of facilities and amenities are offered with the equipped office space? Is the space fully furnished? Does it project a professional image?

3. What support services are included in the equipped office space? Does the office space include telephones, voice mail and internet connection? Do you have access to clerical support?

Action Steps

The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Choose a conveniently located equipped office space Location is important, especially if you plan to meet current and prospective clients at your office. If you are an expanding business, be sure to consider the office location from an employee's commuting perspective. Look for an equipped office space located in a safe and attractive neighborhood with well-kept grounds and adequate parking.

I recommend: Search for equipped office space by country and city, or utilize the quicklinks to find office space in the United States, United Kingdom, France, Germany, Australia and Canada at Instant Offices. Find equipped office spaces in major U.S. cities at OfficeBroker.com. Locate furnished, equipped and wired office spaces by state at OfficeSeeker.com.

Select an equipped office space with attractive facilities Your equipped office space should project an image of success. Evaluate the quality of the furniture, appearance of the office and lobby areas and overall cleanliness of the building. Seek equipped office spaces with attractive meeting and conference rooms that will impress current and future clients.

I recommend: Regus offers fully furnished, professionally equipped offices with access to meeting rooms and videoconferencing studios. NYC Office Suites provides furnished and equipped office spaces ranging from small suites to large, open layout team rooms.

Lease an equipped office space with professional equipment and support services Make sure your equipped office space has the infrastructure you need for business success. equipped office spaces should include standard business equipment like telephones, fax machines, copiers and high-speed internet access. Look for value-added services like receptionists, clerical support, mail services, personalized telephone answering services and videoconferencing capabilities.

I recommend: Metro Office Management provides a full suite of administrative support services, including word processing, notary services, database management and website design. Officescape features Office on Demand, a pay-as-you-work support services plan to meet your specific business needs.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

When evaluating an equipped office space, be sure to talk with your potential office space partners and building tenants. Find out about their business, working hours, clients and business culture. Consider leasing equipped office space near complementary businesses to increase your business contacts and exposure.
Equipped office space leases are typically six to 12 months, with some facilities offering three-month lease options. Be sure a lawyer who specializes in office and sub-leases reviews your lease contract before you sign any paperwork.

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