Resources

We get it.
And we want you to get it too.

Commercial real estate has its own language, its own traps, and its own rules. Nobody explains them to small business owners. That’s a problem, and this is our attempt to fix it.

Below you’ll find practical guides on how commercial leases work, what to expect from the process, and the questions you should be asking before you sign anything. We’ve also written honestly about some of the things that catch people off guard.

Read what’s useful and reach out if you have questions.

The latest

Commercial leases: what to know before you sign image

Guides

Commercial Leasing Basics

Lease Term, Options & Increases

Before you sign, get clear on how long you’re committing to, what flexibility you have, and how your rent will move over time.

Commercial Leasing Basics

What Incentives Actually Include

Landlord incentives are one of the most talked-about parts of a lease negotiation, and one of the least understood.

Commercial Leasing Basics

Freehold vs Leasehold Land

Before term, rent, or incentives, it helps to know what land tenure sits under the premises.

FAQs

What if I already have a specific property in mind?

Tell us about it. Include the address in your brief. If it’s on the market and the numbers work, we may be able to acquire it. If it’s not listed, we may still be able to approach the owner directly.

Can LBKN help with my fit-out?

We can’t manage or deliver a fit-out — that’s your business to run. But depending on the deal, we may be able to structure the lease to give you time and runway while you set up, or contribute to costs in some way. We work that out together.

What types of commercial property do you acquire?

Primarily retail, food and beverage, personal service, and medical businesses across Canberra and Sydney. Properties suited to small business occupiers in suburban and urban fringe locations are generally our focus, however we are open to reviewing all opportunities. If you’re not sure whether your property fits, submit it and we’ll give you an honest answer.

I’m looking in a very specific suburb. Can you really help?

Quite possibly. The off-market approach is often most effective in established suburbs where stock rarely comes up formally. Submit your brief with the location details and we’ll tell you honestly whether we think we can find something.