Finding and Using Temporary Office Space

The best temporary executive suites for small business

You've outgrown your home office or current office location, which hopefully means your business is growing accordingly. Before you sign off on a long-term lease on a bigger place, which could end up severely limiting your cash flow, check out another option – temporary office space.

Here are the top solutions to finding and using temporary office space:

1. Assess the size and other basic must-haves for your new office space.
2. Prioritize your need for office amenities, including staffing, to narrow your choices.
3. Go to the experts for help in choosing the best temporary office space for you.

Define necessities immediately

Figuring out what you need is the first step. Start with the basics – office size, number of employees working from that office (if any), geographical location, you rental budget and occupancy dates.

Narrow your choices

Refine your new office must-haves by adding those features you consider indispensable – make a list of "needs" vs. "wants" so you have these options clearly defined ahead of time.

Contemplate the costs

Number one on your priority list should be finding the right space for the right price. What will your lease agreement and rent cover? Just the space itself, or office equipment, furniture and high-speed Internet? (If you have to buy/rent equipment, that's going to cut into your bottom line.)

Share and share alike

Thinking about a shared office? Then check out "turnkey" office solutions – not just office space – they provide you with entire fitted, furnished, and staffed office, in most cases. (Check to verify which amenities are included in the lease price, and which are offered for additional fees.)

Ready, set, go!

Okay, put the experts to work for you. Any of the sources we've given you here can help you find the perfect office.

• Get it in writing: No handshake deals here! Get everything – rental terms and prices, signage, etc. – you name it.
• Professional and useful: Remember that you have the limited resources of a small business owner, so make sure your temp office space looks professional, and is put to the right use.
• Think sensibly: Don't fall victim to choosing a space based only on its appearance, address, or ocean-side sunrises, if it's the size of a closet. Think smart.
• Accessible: Is the new office easily to go to from a highway/main street? You don't want your clients getting lost.

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