While many office space locations remain nearly vacant to prevent the spread of the coronavirus, one question remains certain: “Will the Office Market Experience a Surplus of Sublease Space?” The short answer…it’s too early to tell. However, events such as the election, a second potential lockdown in Tampa Bay and 4th quarter happenings will play a vital role in the response.
2020 Presidential Election:
Historically, new administration brings new policies which impact the business sector. With the 2020 Presidential election now behind us, we play the waiting game. A new administration, new policies will be rolled out in the beginning of 2021, this could impact major decision makers as they decide what is next for their company for 2021 and the future.
A Second Lock Down:
Another hot topic that has been on everyone’s minds: “Will there be another lock down?” Since Europe has recently entered into their second lock down and now we are seeing states like California, Illinois and New York transition back into a severe lock down, is this on the horizon for Florida? Whether Florida experiences a second lock down or not, companies whose Corporate Headquarters in Illinois, New York and California, are announcing maintaining a work from home policy through 2021 or later. What does this mean for Landlord’s in Tampa Bay? The same companies who have additional offices in markets like Tampa or St Petersburg are maintaining their work from home policies across their entire company for consistent company culture, even though Tampa, has different Covid restrictions and regulations.
4th Quarter Happenings:
As we quickly approach the end of 2020 and the fourth quarter is in full swing, we are going to start seeing companies begin to strategize their future plans for office space. Typical commercial office space lease in Tampa Bay have running a minimum of 5 years. Many companies have been forced to allow their employees to work from home and satisfy the rent on their lease. However, as companies near the end of their lease some will begin to test the market by reducing the size of their office space or even taking the huge leap to go completely remote.
With so much change and uncertainty over the past year it’s hard for many to tell what 2021 could bring. Having a Tenant Representative on your side will provide an advantage only an expert with their ear to the ground on a daily basis can deliver insight and market specialization. Give our team at Office Space Brokers a call 813-289-3700, for a consultation to strategize your company’s office space steps.
What you need to know – Landlords use the Operating Expense Reconciliation to, well, reconcile the difference between the money they projected you would pay as part of the Common Area Maintenance (CAM) fees and what you actually paid and owe them for that space for the year. Of course, landlords don’t go around waving a sign, reminding you of how much they need from you and what you’ll be paying to help upkeep the building during your lease so it’s crucial that you stay on top of tracking these expenses.