Building a community is something to be admired; we often don’t realize how important it is to build those relationships, make those friendships, or create bonds that could last a lifetime. We become so focused on completing the rat race of the 9-5 workweek, getting the kids to school and extra-curricular on time, and somehow still managing to put dinner on the table by the time everyone walks in the door that the world passes us by.
If you are looking to open a boutique or small business or hope to turn your hobby into an income, you will need the people around you, not only for support but as foot traffic to your store and then the word-of-mouth referrals that make up much of brand revenue.
Another factor before you jump in with both feet is knowing about location, location, location. This couldn’t be reiterated more if we tried. It is no secret that if your little shop is tucked away in a quaint alley, as picturesque as it may be, the chances of people visiting or stopping as they walk by are slim. Whereas if you had a central street premise on the footpath, you would soon become a known name.
What and where.
Simply phoning up a rental agency and enquiring about vacant premises sounds like the easiest and best option if you are new to the world of property and development, but does this mean that you are likely to get the best deal for your money? Probably not. You need to do your homework and essential research to see which developers are looking for tenants not only for off-plan premises but also vacant shops available at present; this way, you have options to weigh up and see which would be better suited for your situation and finances.
The best location and one that is highly sought after is usually in large shopping centres and malls, and if this is your ideal location, then Hillandale shopping centre could well be the answer to your prayers. You want an area that will bring customers an appealing atmosphere and represent your brand in the best possible way.
Malls and shopping centres are always buzzing with people. If you are a first-time property renter or owner, it is an excellent place to start; you can find your feet while still bringing in revenue rather than an off-the-beaten-track vacancy that, whilst cheap on a mortgage with no foot traffic you can see why.
If finances are tight, which is understandable considering the capital and overheads needed to get the show on the road, then think about what you want to achieve. What are your long-term and short goals, and weigh up the pros and cons of each situation if you had to go into a more expensive shopping centre instead of a cheaper village building space? This is a quick way to see what you envision for your business and brand.
Community and location.
Where you put down your roots is equally as important as your business concept; finding the right place can be what makes or breaks your dreams. There are a few pointers to consider when property hunting and what to be aware of when looking at premises.
- This has been mentioned, but it is a crucial factor in the process; thus, it is number one on the list and should always be on your mind when shopping. You can read an interesting discussion piece here to understand better and be sure that you are making the right choices at the end of the day.
- What are your available options in the surrounding area? Can shoppers get to the shop if they rely on public transport, is there a parking lot or would customers have to park off-site and walk, a factor not too many people would be happy about?
- Not all the boxes will be ticked on your ideal, dream business space. Try to keep an open mind. While you may have 3 smaller windows at the front of the shop instead of the one large one you wanted, this is an accommodation you can relook at. It may prove to be better suited; either way, make it work to your advantage if it is the only niggle standing in your way.
- Ironing out the fine print in the contract will have these details stated down but be sure to have your lawyer look over the agreement before you sign any paperwork and that you are secure in getting a refundable deposit. The last thing we want is to tie money into something that happens to go sour a few months down the line and then not get our money back.
A final thought.
Trusting your gut is the easiest and quickest way to make a decision, and it works; click here to learn more about it, but many successful transactions have been completed on the back of going with your instincts. It may sound not very smart, but your conscience is there to help and guide you, and if something feels off or not suitable, you will do your best to hold back on signing anything and taking another look.
There is no perfect way to do business, no set right or wrong method to follow, and if you want your business to succeed with the support and love from your community, then making the right choice the first time around will be your advantage.
Shop around, look at businesses nearby and in the area, do they prove competitive, or could you all have a piece of the pie and build lasting relationships and success. You may not know it, but a community member who ‘knows a guy’ may be the silver lining in a situation you find yourself in one day. A burst pipe, a break-in, the community will be there to support you.