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Office Viewing - How to Convince Your Landlord
Once you've found the perfect office, the next step is to convince the landlord that you're the right candidate for their property.
Office 101
April 19, 2016
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Finding the right office can sometimes be a challenge. Especially in highly sought-after startup areas like Berlin Mitte or Kreuzberg, the most attractive properties are often quickly taken. Once you've found the perfect office, the next step is to convince the landlord that you're the right candidate for their property.
We've compiled a few tips to help you stand out during the office viewing:
Be Prepared
Before the viewing, research the office property and its conditions thoroughly. If the information isn't clear in the listing, don't hesitate to ask for clarification! Typical considerations include office size, costs, minimum lease length, or renovation requirements. This way, you'll avoid surprises and save both yourself and the landlord valuable time.
First Impressions Matter
It's advisable to attend the viewing with a small group and present yourself professionally. Sometimes, age can also be a factor ("the older, the better"). Landlords are looking for trustworthy and reliable tenants and ideally prefer to have a single point of contact. Punctuality is also key. Being late or not showing up at all doesn't leave a good impression.
The Documents
In a competitive market, it's essential to distinguish yourself from other applicants. Ideally, bring along or submit the required documents shortly after the viewing. These may include:
- A brief and compelling business concept
- Proof of income
- Creditworthiness report (Schufa or Creditreform)
- Commercial register extract
- Copy of the ID card of the managing director
- References from previous landlords or investors if available
Landlords often prefer tenants with a GmbH legal form. If you don't have a GmbH yet, you can try to convince the landlord through an increased deposit or personal bank guarantee.
In general, a viewing is similar to a job interview. The landlord wants to ensure their space is in good hands. Therefore, in addition to financial security for rental income, personal rapport can often play a crucial role.
