7
Planning
THE SPACE
Once you select a location, you can determine your space requirements.
Consider these questions:
How much space do you need?
Different types of businesses need different amounts of space. You want
only enough space to meet the needs of customers and to manage your
operations. Unused or unnecessary space means unnecessary costs.
Is the layout important?
Some businesses or offices may need a large open area. Other businesses
may need multiple offices or separate rooms. For example, if you plan to
open a clothing store, a space with a large open area can help customers
see and navigate your entire selection. If your employees need privacy for
phone calls or meetings, you may need a space with separate offices or the
ability to add cubicles.
Do I need lots of windows?
Spaces with few or no windows, or windows that do not face the street, are
usually less expensive.
Do I need to be on the ground floor?
If you want customers to find and visit your business by seeing it on the street,
a ground floor spaces with windows may be a good choice, even though
they are usually more expensive. Second floor spaces are better for
businesses whose customers are more likely to seek the business out.
For example, if your business is an office or expects customers to make
appointments, a second floor location may be the better choice.
Do I need space for storage?
Using commercial space for storage can be expensive. Basements can be
a less expensive place for storage. Off-site storage facilities can also be a
cheaper option than using commercial space for storage, but will take time
and money to move items to and from the storage facility.
Do I need the ability to add space in the future?
It is not easy to predict how well your business will do. You may want to
start with a smaller space with the option to expand in the future if your
business grows. You may wish to negotiate an option in your lease to rent
space next to yours if it becomes available.
Do I want a space already set up for my type of business?
Or am I willing to change it to my specifications?
Construction takes time and can be expensive. This is especially true if the
space will need structural changes, such as building or removing walls. If
you find a space that fits your needs and does not need much work, you will
save time and money.
What utilities does my business need?
Make sure the location has access to enough electricity, natural gas, water,
and internet access to run all of your equipment.
Does my business need special equipment?
For example, a restaurant may need refrigerators, ovens, and grease traps.
Some spaces, such as a previous restaurant location, may already have the
equipment you need. This will save you the cost of buying new equipment
and connecting the equipment to building systems.
Building Systems: These may
include electrical, plumbing, gas, or
air conditioning (HVAC) systems.
Did you know?
Businesses located in New York City
are eligible for a wide variety of
incentive programs, including tax
benefits, energy incentives, and
wage benefits.
SBS offers one-on-one consultations
to help small business owners identify
City, State, and Federal incentives.
To learn more, visit nyc.gov/incentives.