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How to Choose the Right Commercial Tenant Representation Broker

Choosing the right commercial tenant representation broker is crucial for businesses looking to rent commercial properties. The right broker can not only assist firms in negotiating favorable lease terms, but also help them navigate the complexities of the real estate market. Furthermore, your choice of broker can significantly impact the profitability and success of your business operations.

Understanding Commercial Tenant Representation

Whether you’re a start-up searching for the perfect spot or an established firm looking to upgrade, tenant representation can save money and provide valuable insights into the real estate market. Commercial tenant representation is all about leverage—the power that tenant rep brokers bring to the negotiation table to ensure optimal lease terms and conditions for their clients.

The Role of a Commercial Tenant Representation Broker

Tenant representation brokers manage the site selection process, negotiate lease terms, and facilitate a positive relationship between tenants and landlords. A good tenant rep broker understands business needs and tailors their approach accordingly. Moreover, through a well-defined brokerage services agreement, they pledge to represent the tenant’s interests, acting as a corporate real estate advisor, providing a range of services from initiating discussions with potential landlords to finalizing lease agreements.

Why Choosing the Right Tenant Representation Broker Is Crucial

Finding a commercial real estate broker who understands your business’s specific needs is imperative. A good tenant rep is invaluable during property negotiations, potentially saving your company money in the long run. Furthermore, the right broker can streamline the site selection process, help you avoid pitfalls and enable you to concentrate on your core business functions. Given the importance of this decision, selecting the right tenant representation broker should not be taken lightly.

What to Consider When Choosing a Commercial Tenant Representation Broker

Before settling on a commercial tenant representative, there are a few things you need to consider.

Broker Expertise and Experience

The skills and experiences of tenant representation brokers vary widely. It’s essential to assess both the individual broker’s track record and the reputation of the brokerage firm. Look for proven success, a strong team, and a consistent approach to client service. Be sure to ask for timeline templates of their previous deals, references from past clients, and other tangible proof of their expertise.

Market Knowledge

Market knowledge is a critical aspect of commercial real estate. A broker with a deep understanding of the local market can offer business owners insights that an out-of-town or less experienced landlord rep simply cannot. They can identify upcoming trends, understand the competition, and give more accurate predictions of future market developments. By leveraging this knowledge, you can gain an edge in your commercial real estate lease negotiations.

Transparency and Ethical Practices

Ethical practices and transparency should not be overlooked when choosing a tenant rep broker. Brokers that prioritize transparency tend to handle personal information responsibly, reply promptly to inquiries, and avoid hidden costs. Ethical practices extend to being open about conflicts of interest and providing unbiased advice. This kind of transparency builds trust, ensuring a better tenant experience.

Negotiation Skills

Last but not least, negotiation skills are a vital determinant of success in commercial real estate. An effective tenant rep broker will advocate for the best terms for your business, and their negotiation prowess can often lead to significant cost savings. They will be adept at managing the negotiation process and bring a deep understanding of the market, combined with analytical skills, that give them the edge in securing the best deal possible.

 Selecting the right commercial tenant representation services is a critical business decision. Hokanson’s tenant representation brokers can ensure your interests are protected and your needs are met.

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Steps to Choose the Right Commercial Tenant Representation Broker

Choosing the right tenant representation broker makes acquiring a new commercial real estate lease seamless. With a good tenant rep, business owners can save money, gain insight into the property market, and enjoy free money through generous leasing conditions. Here are some things you need to do when selecting a broker.

Assess Your Industry-Specific Business Needs

The first step is to evaluate your corporation’s real estate needs. A corporate real estate advisory can help you determine if you require more flexible space, a different location, or a reduction in rental costs. Understanding your objectives would enable your tenant rep to provide optimal site selection and negotiation process assistance.

Use a timeline template to determine your short- and long-term property needs. Look at company growth forecasts, evolving employee needs, and future industry trends. After all, every cent saved on your commercial real estate lease is money that can be invested back into your company.

Research Brokers that Fit Your Needs

The next step in choosing a tenant representation broker is conducting comprehensive research. This involves a deep dive into each potential broker’s services agreement, understanding the specifics of their offerings, and how they align with your business objectives. The real estate broker service firm you select should be an expert in commercial real estate and have a successful track record in tenant representation.

A good tenant rep should protect your personal information, communicate clearly, and represent your best interests. Beware of dual agency situations where the broker could also be a landlord rep, which may present a conflict of interest. An efficient tenant representative should guide you through the entire site selection process and ensure you make informed decisions.

Review Client References and Testimonials

It’s imperative to dig into the past performances of potential brokerage firms. Express interest in their client references and testimonials. They provide a vital insight into the real-life tenant experience rendered by these brokers. Moreover, they can offer valuable glimpses into the broker’s reputation, integrity, and performance capacity. Successful tenant reps will have a transparent record of their past tenant representation. They should be willing to share both the successes and lessons learned from previous clients. This allows you to gauge their level of service and prepares you for your potential experience with the tenant rep broker.

With all your research and due diligence completed, it’s time to meet with the potential tenant reps. Use the interview to ask challenging questions that test their knowledge, skill, and dedication. Evaluate their strategies, understand their negotiation process approach, and assess their communication skills to ensure they are aligned with your company’s goals. All that’s left is to make your decision.

For a tenant representative who can meet and exceed your expectations, turn to Hokanson Companies.

Partner With a Tenant Rep Broker Today at Hokanson Companies

Selecting Hokanson Companies as your commercial tenant representation broker is a strategic decision that promises to safeguard your time and financial resources. Our proven expertise in the real estate industry, coupled with a commitment to understanding each client’s unique needs, positions us as a reliable partner in navigating the complexities of the market.

By entrusting us with your tenant representation needs, businesses not only benefit from our comprehensive market insights and negotiation prowess, but also experience a streamlined process that minimizes unnecessary delays and expenses. At Hokanson Companies, we recognize the critical importance of efficient and cost-effective real estate solutions, making us the smart choice for businesses seeking to acquire commercial property and position themselves for long-term success.

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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.