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Overcoming 11 Challenges of Commercial Leasing for Real Estate Properties

Commercial leasing can be a complex and challenging process for real estate property owners. From economic downturns to tenant turnover, these challenges can disrupt cash flow, impact tenant satisfaction, and complicate property management. However, with the right strategies in place, many of these hurdles can be overcome.

Let’s explore some of the most common challenges in commercial leasing and provide practical solutions to help you navigate them with ease.

Common Commercial Leasing Challenges and Solutions

Leasing commercial real estate can present a variety of challenges that impact both property owners and tenants. From fluctuating markets to legal compliance, these issues can complicate the leasing process. However, partnering with an experienced commercial real estate representative like Hokanson Companies can help you anticipate and overcome these challenges with ease.

Here are some common commercial leasing challenges and how partnering with a provider like Hokanson can provide effective solutions.

1. Economic Downturns

Economic downturns can reduce demand for commercial spaces, leading to increased vacancy rates and financial strain. In these times, having a flexible leasing strategy is essential. A commercial real estate firm like Hokanson Companies can help create adaptive lease terms, such as offering short-term leases or incentives, to keep tenants during economic challenges. They can also provide insights on diversifying your tenant mix to reduce risk and stabilize cash flow.

2. Legal Compliance

Legal compliance in commercial leasing can be daunting due to the numerous laws and regulations landlords must adhere to. From zoning laws to environmental regulations, staying compliant is critical to avoid fines and legal disputes. A commercial real estate firm with legal expertise can guide you through these complexities, ensuring that leases, property use, and operational practices align with local, state, and federal laws, protecting you from costly legal issues.

3. Property Maintenance

Property maintenance is a crucial factor in tenant retention and satisfaction. However, the upkeep of a commercial property can become overwhelming and costly, especially for large facilities. A reliable commercial real estate partner, such as Hokanson Companies, can manage maintenance schedules, ensuring that repairs and improvements are done promptly and efficiently. This proactive approach keeps tenants happy, reduces unexpected repair costs, and maintains the overall value of your property.

4. Technology Integration

The modern business environment demands advanced technology, from high-speed internet to smart building systems. If your property lacks these features, it could deter potential tenants. Commercial real estate experts can assist you in upgrading or retrofitting your property to meet current technology needs, helping you attract tech-savvy tenants. They can also help you stay competitive in an increasingly digital commercial market, which values connectivity and technological integration.

5. Market Fluctuations

The commercial real estate market is subject to frequent fluctuations in demand, leasing rates, and property values. These changes can make it difficult for property owners to maintain consistent income. A commercial real estate partner with deep market insights can help you anticipate and respond to these shifts. Adjusting rates, lease terms, and marketing strategies accordingly can help you maximize occupancy and profitability, even in a volatile market.

6. Tenant Turnover

High tenant turnover can lead to costly vacancies and disrupt the steady income stream that commercial properties rely on. Minimizing tenant turnover is crucial for financial stability. A seasoned commercial real estate firm can help reduce turnover by selecting reliable tenants through a rigorous screening process, offering lease flexibility, and building strong relationships with existing tenants. These efforts increase tenant satisfaction and encourage longer-term leases.

Overcome the challenges that come with commercial leasing responsibilities with Hokanson Companies’ landlord representation services.

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7. Negotiation Complexities

Negotiating commercial leases involves balancing the interests of both landlords and tenants, which can be highly complex. Leasing terms, tenant improvement allowances, and escalations all require careful negotiation. A commercial real estate company brings negotiation expertise, ensuring that leases are fair while also protecting your interests. They handle the details so you can be confident you’re getting the best possible deal without unnecessary risks.

8. Evolving Tenant Needs

As businesses grow and evolve, their space requirements can change rapidly. Some tenants may need to expand, while others might downsize. Being able to accommodate these needs can be the difference between retaining or losing a tenant. A proactive commercial real estate partner like Hokanson can help anticipate and address these changes, offering solutions such as flexible lease terms or space reconfigurations, ensuring tenant satisfaction and long-term occupancy.

9. Competitive Market

In highly competitive commercial real estate markets, attracting and retaining quality tenants can be challenging. Standing out among numerous options requires strategic marketing and pricing. A skilled commercial real estate firm can position your property to appeal to the right tenants by offering competitive lease terms and showcasing your property’s strengths. They also leverage their market knowledge to help you make informed decisions on pricing and property enhancements.

10. Tenant Credit Risk

One of the biggest risks in commercial leasing is tenant credit risk, as financially unstable tenants may fail to meet their lease obligations. This can lead to lost revenue and costly eviction processes. A real estate partner can mitigate this risk by conducting thorough background checks and credit evaluations. They ensure that potential tenants are financially sound, reducing the likelihood of defaults and securing your revenue stream.

11. Tenant Improvement Costs

Tenant improvement costs can quickly escalate, putting pressure on landlords to meet the financial demands of customizing spaces for tenants. Properly managing these costs is key to maintaining profitability. A commercial real estate firm can negotiate tenant improvement allowances that balance both tenant needs and landlord budgets. They can also help find cost-effective ways to make improvements that meet tenant expectations without compromising your bottom line.

Understanding these common commercial leasing challenges is the first step to overcoming them. By recognizing potential hurdles such as market fluctuations, legal compliance, and tenant turnover, commercial real estate owners can take proactive measures to protect their investments.

Partnering with a reliable provider like Hokanson Companies can make navigating these challenges even easier, ensuring you have the expertise and support needed to tackle any leasing issue with confidence.

Tackle Commercial Leasing Obstacles With Hokanson Companies By Your Side

At Hokanson Companies, we understand that leasing commercial real estate can feel overwhelming, but we are committed to making the process as simple and seamless as possible. Our team is here to help you navigate and overcome any commercial leasing challenges, ensuring a smooth and straightforward experience. Whether you’re negotiating terms or addressing concerns, we’re with you every step of the way to ensure your leasing process is successful.

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Christopher M. Horsley

President and Chief Executive Officer
cmh@hokansoninc.com

“Working hard to make a difference to earn your business.”

Chris Horsley joined Hokanson Companies, Inc. in 1997 while completing his degree in Civil Engineering at Purdue University. Chris began his employment at Hokanson Companies in the construction area and in 2000 added Property Management to his responsibilities. Now as President and Chief Executive Officer, he focuses his efforts on construction, development, and property/facility management. Chris oversees a team of property and construction managers to provide management services to approximately 5M square feet in a 7-state geographical service area. Chris also works closely with multiple financial institutions to meet their bank branch real estate needs which includes a 140-branch system across a 3-state geographical area.

Chris graduated from Purdue University in 1999 with a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering. He holds a Professional Indiana State License for an Engineer in Training (EIT) and an Indiana Real Estate Broker and is a Certified Commercial Investment Member (CCIM). Chis is also involved with The Building Owners and Managers Association (BOMA) and is currently serving on the International Executive Committee and is the President for BOMA Indianapolis.

Chris enjoys spending time, working in the business, being outside, riding motorcycles, exercising, playing golf, and being with his family.

Stephen J. Adams

Executive Vice President
sja@hokansoninc.com

Stephen J. Adams joined Hokanson Companies, Inc. in 2000 and now serves as the Executive Vice President for the company.  While leading the leasing and brokerage team over the past 25 + years, Stephen has grown his client list by being accountable, trustworthy and responsive at all times.  He manages his client’s corporate real estate needs from coast to coast through providing site selection, transaction advisory, tenant representation and acquisition/disposition services.

Stephen serves as the outsourced real estate partner to many major corporations and has developed long-term relationships by integrating and learning the business of his clients.  His proactive approach to cost savings has provided an invaluable benefit to his customers.  He continues to have success with both large, multinational companies and regional businesses as he earns his client’s business daily with an eye on strategic planning, both locally and nationally.

As Executive Vice President, he helps manage a team of seasoned professionals who provide expert market research, real estate knowledge, and function as a cohesive team to enhance the decision making of his clients.  Capabilities include strategic planning, market evaluation and transaction management.

Continuing the company’s history as the premier medical real estate provider, Stephen has developed relationships with the major hospital systems in Indiana, such as Indiana University Health, Community Health Network, Ascension St. Vincent, Lutheran Health, Parkview Health, Hancock Regional Health and Johnson Memorial Hospital.  In addition, representation services have been provided to many private physician groups such as OPTUM, Otolaryngology Associates, Dawes Fretzin Dermatology, Indiana Spine Group, Midwest Fertility, Northside Gastroenterology, The Surgery Center of Indianapolis, the Suburban Health Organization and the Indiana Hospital Association.

Stephen also counts several publicly traded REITS and Private Equity groups as clients.  Major investment sales experience includes on-campus MOBs at St. Vincent – Indianapolis, Indiana University – Methodist Downtown, Indiana University Health North and West Campuses, Parkview Health, Lutheran Health and various other campuses.  Also, he has completed several national, single-tenant, industrial sale/leaseback transactions including tenants such as Hershey’s, Firestone and several 3PL providers.

Stephen has devoted his time to various organizations including Noble of Indiana, Penrod Arts Society, Youthlinks Indiana, Hoosier Oncology Group, Allisonville Youth Baseball, St. Pius X School, and Cathedral High School the Governors Awards for Tomorrows Leaders.  He is also a member of the Stanley K. Lacy Executive Leadership Series, Class XXXVII.

Jay B. Gehl

Vice Chairman
jbg@hokansoninc.com

Jay Gehl serves as Vice Chairman of Hokanson Companies, Inc.  With over thirty years of experience, Jay has been directing and managing the company’s expertise in the areas of corporate advisory work, strategic planning, tenant representation, financial analysis of leases, brokerage, and build-to-suit assistance.  He has been instrumental in assisting the efforts of several major corporations establishing or relocating their corporate headquarters and managing vast portfolios of leased and owned properties across the United States.  His attention to detail and his unparalleled customer service have been the foundation of his relationships with the institutional customers served by Hokanson Companies, Inc.

Jay has excelled in investment sales with multiple transactions each year that annually rank him as a top producing broker on a local and national level. In addition, Jay’s efforts have helped corporate clients establish or renew leases in facilities across the United States from Connecticut to California.  He has also served the international needs of his clients in six countries including a facility in Turrialba, Costa Rica with 230,000 square feet and 35 acres.

Jay’s resume includes multiple build-to-suits of logistics and manufacturing facilities.  In addition, investment sales such as the 550,000 square foot U.S. Postal Facility in downtown Indianapolis and a 450,000 square foot medical portfolio make Jay a top producer in the local market while managing a team of highly experienced real estate professionals.  The success of Jay’s business is benchmarked by the multiple transactions and ongoing relationships with customers that have remained satisfied by the level of service and the quality of the transactions resulting from his guidance.

Today Jay continues to excel at providing excellent advice and service to several customers that lead their individual industries in quality, growth, and innovation.

Stephen P. Hokanson

Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer, CRE, CPM, RPA
sph@hokansoninc.com

“We put our clients’ interests first… always.”

Steve Hokanson serves as Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of Hokanson Companies, Inc. He began with HCI in 1971, and has been its President and CEO since 1983. When Steve joined the organization, Hokanson Companies was primarily focused on property management. Under Steve’s leadership, Hokanson Companies has grown to include four active divisions and five separate disciplines.

HCI currently manages over 6 Million square feet under its property management division, and has over $100 million in project management and development. Its sales and leasing division closes over $100 million in sales and leases annually, while they continue to be very active in construction management for its various clients and out-of-ground buildings.

In addition to his role at HCI, Steve has also fulfilled numerous civic and professional leadership roles locally, statewide, and nationally, including the International President of BOMA International 1991-1993. Steve’s other accomplishments include being selected for the Stanley K. Lacy Executive Leadership Series, the Eagle Scout Silver Beaver Award, the National Distinguished Eagle Scout Award, named in Outstanding Young Men in America, and the Sagamore of the Wabash award, which is the highest award given in the State of Indiana by our Governor.

Steve Hokanson graduated from Indiana University in 1969 with a Bachelor of Science in Management and Administration. Steve is a licensed Real Estate Broker in the State of Indiana, and his designations include Counselor of Real Estate (CRE), Certified Property Manager (CPM), and Real Property Administrator (RPA).

Boyd R. Zoccola

Chief Development Officer
brz@hokansoninc.com

“Your ideas become reality through our combined efforts.”

Boyd R. Zoccola serves as Chief Development Officer of Hokanson Companies Inc. With over 25 years of experience, he focuses his expertise on development of office and medical space, and corporate consulting. Boyd has been actively involved in the development of nearly $600 million worth of real estate, including client partners like IU Health, Springleaf Financial, Vectren Corporation, and Old National Bank.

Boyd’s industry involvement with The Building Owners and Managers Association (BOMA) is extensive beginning in 1994. He served as Chair and Chief Elected Officer of BOMA International, and has also served on the Executive, Finance, Medical, and Healthcare Facilities Committees. He also served and chaired numerous task forces along with being a panelist and/or speaker. Boyd’s BOMA Indianapolis experience includes positions as President, Vice President, Treasurer, Secretary, and multiple committee chairs. In addition, Boyd served as a Board Member of the Real Estate Round Table from 2011-2012.

Boyd graduated from Indiana University with a BA in Biology and is a graduate of the Stanley K. Lacy Leadership Series. Boyd has served the community through his involvement with Horizon House, Girls Inc., and the IYHA. He is a member of Second Presbyterian Church, Sigma Chi Alumni Association, Meridian Hills Country Club, and is an Indiana Real Estate Principal Broker.

Tony R. Townsley

Chief Financial Officer, CPA
trt@hokansoninc.com

“A great company has great people who are passionate about what they do! I am proud to be a part of the Hokanson Team, where we demonstrate that passion every day in helping our customers solve their Real Estate challenges.”

Tony Townsley serves as Chief Financial Officer of Hokanson Companies, Inc. Tony began with HCI in 2001, bringing with him 25 years of accounting and operations management experience including four years with Arthur Anderson. This vast knowledge has contributed to his success overseeing the corporate financial reporting, cash management, budget coordination, and year-end audit and tax responsibilities at Hokanson.

Tony graduated from Indiana University in 1985 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting. He is a Certified Public Accountant, and was appointed by the Governor to serve on the Governor’s Council of Impaired and Dangerous Driving. Tony also served on the Wine and Spirit Wholesalers’ Board of Directors. Currently, he’s involved with the Merciful Help Center, and is an active member of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic Church.

Tony enjoys spending time outdoors with his family, camping, fishing, biking, and reading. Those same family values led him in publishing a children’s book titled “Three Cups”, which teaches children how to save, spend, and be charitable with their money. There are more than 50,000 copies of the book in distribution.