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How to choose the right commercial property advisor in London

February 24, 2026

2

min. read

By

Laurie Thomasson

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We know the Commercial Real Estate industry can feel opaque and intimidating. Choosing the right commercial property advisor can be the difference between securing your ideal office space at a great rate and making a costly mistake. Whether you're looking for serviced office space, a traditional leased office, or a managed workspace, the right advisor will save you time, money, and stress.

Understanding Your Options Before entering negotiations, it's crucial to understand the different types of office agreements available in London: Traditional leases typically run for 3-10 years with fixed terms. These involve negotiating rent reviews, break clauses, and repair obligations with the landlord. They offer the most control but require significant upfront commitment. Serviced offices provide all-inclusive packages with furniture, utilities, and reception services bundled into one monthly fee. Contracts are usually shorter and more flexible, but you'll pay a premium for the convenience. Managed offices sit between the two: you get a fitted space with some services included, often on more flexible terms than traditional leases but with more control than serviced options.

Key Negotiation Points

Rent and rent-free periods: The asking rent is rarely the final price. In London's current market, landlords are often willing to negotiate, especially for quality tenants. Rent-free periods of 3-6 months are standard for traditional leases to cover fit-out costs.

Break clauses: Flexibility is gold. Break clauses that allow you to exit the lease at set intervals, typically every 2-3 years, protect you if your business needs change.

Service charges and insurance: These can significant costs to your base rent. It's essential to scrutinize what's included and secure caps on annual increases.

Dilapidations: Understanding your repair obligations at lease end is crucial. A schedule of condition can limit your liability to returning the space in its current state rather than to pristine condition.

How Spacepoint Can Help

Navigating London's office market alone can be overwhelming. Spacepoint works as your advocate throughout the negotiation process, and our track record speaks for itself: we've helped clients negotiate an average of22% off their leases. We leverage our relationships with landlords across London to secure terms you wouldn't access independently—whether that's additional rent-free periods, better break clauses, or reduced service charges.

Our team understands the nuances between lease types and can advise whether a traditional lease, serviced office, or managed space best suits your business model. We've negotiated hundreds of London office deals and know exactly which terms are negotiable and where landlords have flexibility.

From initial viewings through to lease signing, Spacepoint handles the heavy lifting. We'll negotiate with landlords on your behalf, review legal terms, flag potential issues, and ensure you're not locked into unfavourable conditions.

Final Thoughts

A well-negotiated lease is an investment in your business's future. Whether you're a start-up needing flexibility or an established company seeking stability, having an experienced negotiator in your corner makes all the difference.

Ready to find and negotiate your ideal London office space? Get in touch with Spacepoint today and let us put our expertise to work for you.

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Dan Lynn

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