How to Find the Right Commercial Space for Your Business in The Triangle.

Feb 12

Searching for Commercial Space in the Triangle? Start Here.

If your business is growing or relocating, the first step is often the hardest: finding the right commercial space. The Triangle—home to Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill—offers a wide range of options for office, retail, and flex use. But choosing the wrong space can hurt your bottom line, limit growth, or cause unexpected operational challenges.

Here’s how to navigate the site selection process with confidence—and find the perfect commercial property for your business needs.

1. Understand Your Business Needs: Size, Use, and Budget

Before you start touring buildings, you need a clear vision of what your business requires.

Ask yourself:
✅ How much space do we really need? (Think: employees, equipment, future growth.)
✅ What type of space fits our operations best? (Office, retail storefront, warehouse, or a hybrid?)
✅ What's our monthly budget, including rent, utilities, CAM charges, and insurance?

📏 General guideline: Office users typically need 150–250 sq. ft. per employee, but this varies by layout and industry.

2. Choose the Right Location in the Triangle

Location can make or break your success—especially for client-facing businesses.

🏙️ Top Triangle markets include:

Downtown Raleigh: Urban energy, walkable, great for law, finance, and creative firms.
Durham/RTP: Tech-driven, innovative, ideal for startups and biotech.
Southpoint & Chapel Hill: Great for healthcare, education-adjacent services, and regional access.
Cary & Apex: High-growth areas with professional appeal and suburban convenience.

📍Consider commute times, parking, public transit access, and customer proximity.

3. Know the Difference: Lease Types Matter

Not all leases are created equal, and understanding them is critical for budgeting.

Triple Net (NNN): Base rent + tenant pays CAM, taxes, and insurance
Modified Gross: Some shared expenses; more balanced
Full-Service: All-inclusive (common in Class A office buildings)

A good tenant rep broker will help you compare options apples-to-apples so you avoid hidden costs.

4. Work with a Tenant Representative (It’s Usually Free to You)

Hiring a tenant representation broker gives you access to:

Off-market listings
Local market knowledge
Skilled negotiation on your behalf
Lease structure advice
Space planning guidance

Best of all? The landlord typically pays the broker’s commission, not you.

5. Plan Ahead: Timing is Everything

Leasing commercial space takes longer than most businesses expect.

⏱️ Plan for:

4–6 months for small office or retail space
6–12+ months for custom build-outs or large relocations

Early planning ensures you don’t rush into a space that’s a poor fit.

6. Tour Thoughtfully & Ask the Right Questions

As you tour properties, evaluate:

Layout efficiency and natural light
HVAC, plumbing, and internet infrastructure
ADA compliance and code issues
Neighboring tenants and noise levels

Bring a checklist and take notes. Small details now can prevent big headaches later.

Final Thoughts: Let the Space Work for You

Choosing the right commercial space in the Triangle is more than just finding a good deal—it’s about setting your business up for long-term success.

With the right guidance, smart planning, and a deep understanding of the local market, you’ll find a space that supports growth, reflects your brand, and fits your operational needs.

Looking to Lease Commercial Space in Raleigh, Durham, or Chapel Hill?

We help businesses find office space in the Triangle that checks every box—location, layout, and lease terms. Whether you’re a startup, expanding, or relocating, our team is ready to guide you through every step.

📞 Contact us today to schedule a consultation or get a customized space search started.

Robert Hunt