Finding an affordable office space in L.A. might feel like hunting for a unicorn in an urban jungle. But it is possible with some savvy advice, which we’ll give you. That said, here’s what you need to understand about finding a cheap office in Los Angeles.
Before you get Started
Several factors affect the rental rate: the building’s class, location, lease term, and amenities. All play a significant role in determining the monthly rate. Remember that these variables can influence each other, so evaluate them together when making your decision.
Class of Building
Office buildings are grouped into three categories – Class A, Class B, and Class C. The most expensive ones are Class A buildings. They have the latest infrastructure, are located in prime areas, and are managed professionally. Class B buildings are slightly older but are still decent and more affordable. Class C buildings are the cheapest option. They are older and don’t have the amenities that Class A and B buildings offer.
Amenities
Office amenities can include basic facilities like Wi-Fi access, meeting spaces, and break rooms. However, some office spaces may offer additional amenities such as on-site gyms, dining options, and parking, significantly impacting the rental cost.
Location
The cost of renting an office space is primarily influenced by its location. Generally, prime locations in the city center tend to be more expensive than those in peripheral areas.
Lease Term Flexibility
Long-term leases tend to offer lower rates compared to short-term leases. However, while a long-term lease might offer a better rate, it also limits your flexibility to move or expand your business in the future.
Consider the Following Areas for an Affordable Office in L.A.
Los Angeles is a sprawling metropolis with many neighborhoods and many pricing options. But, if you’re looking for an affordable space, you should narrow your focus down to these areas.
San Fernando Valley
The San Fernando Valley, north of the Los Angeles Basin, has a range of options for more affordable office space. Areas like Van Nuys and North Hollywood tend to offer lower rental rates compared to other parts of the Valley.
San Fernando Valley Office Options
Regus – North Hollywood – Lankershim Plaza
5250 Lankershim Blvd
#500
North Hollywood, CA 91601
818-210-5000
Van Nuys Office Spaces
6360 Van Nuys Blvd
Van Nuys, CA 91401
818-781-5006
Circle Hub SFV LLC
19849 Nordhoff St,
Northridge, CA 91324
800-209-4451
San Gabriel Valley
The San Gabriel Valley is home to many successful businesses and is only about 15 miles east of Downtown L.A. The area’s proximity to several colleges and universities also makes it a great location for companies that want to attract new hires. Rental rates in the San Gabriel Valley are going to be considerably lower than in other parts of Los Angeles, like Downtown.
San Gabriel Valley Office Options
Onboard Coworking
9650 Telstar Ave
Unit A
El Monte, CA 91731
626-515-5851
Spaces – Pasadena
680 E Colorado Blvd
Suite 180
Pasadena, CA 91101
626-469-2100
San Dimas Business Center
457 W Allen Ave
San Dimas, CA 91773
909-592-5618
Gateway Cities
The Gateway Cities region, situated to the southeast of downtown Los Angeles, includes cities like Paramount and Bellflower. Office space in these areas is more affordable compared to the more central or western parts of Los Angeles County.
Regus – Cerritos – Cerritos Towne Center
17777 Center Ct Dr N
#600
Cerritos, CA 90703
562-246-5300
Ironfire Workspaces
17434 Bellflower Blvd
Ste 200
Bellflower, CA 90706
562-548-7850
Premier Workspaces – Coworking & Office Space
18000 Studebaker Rd
Suite 700
Cerritos, CA 90703
562-467-6900
The Process for Finding an Affordable L.A. Office
Hire a Tenant-Broker
Working with a tenant broker can be beneficial as they have local knowledge, experience, and connections, which can save you time and be effective in finding you a great deal.
Online Resources
With a quick Google Search, you can find a list of websites to help you find an office rental—LoopNet, Regus, and Property Shark are among some of the top online platforms for office rentals.
Get your Financial House in Order
Gather your finances, including profit and loss statements, tax returns, bank records, and anything else to make the qualification process smoother. Your financial information will prove that you can be trusted to be a reliable tenant who pays rent on time.
Negotiate Your Lease Rate
First things first, keep your eyes open! Make sure you understand the terms of the lease agreement, including the base rent, lease term, and tenant improvements. Pay attention to any potential issues such as use clauses, transfer limitations, and as-is clauses. By being aware of these factors, you can make sure that your landlord is meeting you at a fair price.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for affordable office space in Los Angeles, you’ll need to plan carefully, do your research, and negotiate strategically. Understanding the factors affecting office rental costs and using the mentioned tactics can help you find a workspace that meets your business needs without breaking the bank.