Finding the right commercial space to rent is one of the most consequential decisions a business owner makes. Too small and you’re cramped before you know it. Too large and you’re paying for space you don’t need. In the wrong location and your foot traffic, talent pool, or logistics network suffers. Get it right, and your space becomes a genuine competitive advantage.
Here’s where to start your search — and how to make sure you end up in the right place.
Online Platforms for Commercial Space Listings
LoopNet
LoopNet is the go-to public platform for commercial space availability across all property types — office, retail, industrial, flex, and medical. You can filter by location, size, property type, and lease rate. Set up saved searches and alerts to stay current on new availabilities in your target market.
CREXi
CREXi lists commercial spaces for lease alongside for-sale properties and is particularly strong in regional and secondary markets. A parallel search on CREXi alongside LoopNet gives you broader coverage.
Local and Regional Broker Websites
Many commercial real estate firms — particularly regional and boutique operators — list available spaces exclusively on their own websites before pushing to national platforms. Don’t overlook local broker inventories, especially in smaller markets where regional firms dominate the leasing landscape.
CoStar
CoStar is the professional database used by brokers and advisors. While access requires a subscription, your commercial real estate advisor will be pulling CoStar data to surface availabilities that haven’t yet hit public platforms — including spaces coming available in the next 30 to 90 days.
Working With a Tenant Representative
Here’s something many business owners don’t realize: engaging a tenant representative costs you nothing. Tenant rep brokers are compensated by the landlord through the lease commission — meaning you get professional representation, market expertise, and negotiating support at no direct cost.
A good tenant rep will:
- Identify all available spaces that fit your criteria — including unlisted availabilities
- Provide market data on current rents, concessions, and comparable lease terms
- Negotiate lease terms on your behalf, including tenant improvement allowances, free rent periods, and renewal options
- Help you avoid common lease pitfalls that can cost you thousands over the lease term
I always tell business owners: the landlord has a professional advisor in their corner. You should too.
Beyond Listed Inventory — Direct Outreach
In tight markets where vacancy is low, listed inventory may not meet your needs. In those situations, direct outreach to building owners or landlords whose properties you’ve identified can surface opportunities that haven’t been formally marketed. This works particularly well in niche property types or highly specific location requirements.
What to Evaluate Before You Commit
Location Factors
- Proximity to customers, clients, or consumers
- Access to talent and workforce
- Visibility and signage opportunities (for retail)
- Proximity to logistics infrastructure (for industrial and warehouse)
Space and Layout
- Current fit and growth trajectory
- Build-out requirements and landlord’s willingness to fund improvements
- Parking availability and access
- Infrastructure requirements (power, HVAC, data)
Lease Economics
- Base rent and total occupancy cost including CAM, taxes, and insurance
- Rent escalations over the lease term
- Tenant improvement allowance and build-out timeline
- Renewal options and exit flexibility
My Bottom Line
Renting commercial property is a process that rewards preparation and professional support. Start with the right platforms, engage a tenant representative who knows your market, and evaluate every option through the lens of total occupancy cost — not just base rent.
If you’re looking for commercial space to rent and want expert guidance through the search, negotiation, and lease process, I’m Matt Bingaman. Contact me today and let’s find the right space for your business.