Leasing your first office is a big step for any business. It marks the moment when your team moves from working at home or in cafés to having a professional base – a space that reflects your brand and helps you grow. But if you’ve never leased an office before, it can be hard to know where to start.
From location and layout to lease terms and hidden costs, there are a few key things every first-time renter should understand before signing.
Here’s a straightforward guide to help you make the right decision when you’re ready to lease office space in Australia.
1. Understand your business needs
Before you start looking at properties or coworking options, take time to think about how your team actually works.
Ask yourself:
- How many people need desks – now and in six months?
- Do you need private offices, meeting rooms, or collaborative areas?
- Will your staff be working on-site full-time, or do you have a hybrid setup?
Understanding your workflow will guide the size, type, and location of office space you need. For example, a startup might benefit from a flexible lease in a serviced office, while an established company could need a more private, long-term setup.
2. Choose the right location
Location is one of the most important factors when leasing an office. It affects your accessibility, brand image, and even employee satisfaction.
If your clients visit frequently, a central business district (CBD) address may boost your credibility. If your team values convenience, look for something close to public transport, parking, or cafés.
Workspace365 offers locations across Australia in major hubs like Brisbane and Sydney – each designed with convenience, flexibility, and modern amenities in mind. Choosing the right location can instantly elevate your professional presence.
3. Understand the lease terms
When you lease office space, it’s essential to know what you’re agreeing to. Traditional leases can be complex, often locking you in for several years.
Look for key details such as:
- The length of the lease (short-term or long-term)
- What’s included (furniture, utilities, maintenance)
- Deposit requirements and exit conditions
- Any hidden costs, such as cleaning, insurance, or fit-out fees
If you’re just starting, a flexible lease – like the kind offered by serviced or coworking offices – can save you a lot of stress. These agreements typically run month-to-month and include all the essentials, so you can focus on your business instead of logistics.
4. Check what’s included in the rent
Not all office spaces are created equal. Some traditional leases provide only the empty space, leaving you responsible for furniture, internet, and upkeep. Others, like Workspace365’s serviced offices, include everything in one simple package:
- Fully furnished offices
- High-speed internet
- Reception and mail handling
- Meeting rooms and breakout spaces
- Cleaning and maintenance
This all-inclusive approach gives you cost predictability – no surprise bills – and makes it easy to move in and start working straight away.
5. Inspect before you commit
Before signing anything, inspect the space carefully. Walk through it as if you were your own employee – check lighting, air quality, noise levels, and layout. Make sure it feels comfortable and inspiring.
Also consider the building’s amenities: kitchens, rest areas, elevators, and security systems. These details affect daily satisfaction and productivity more than you might expect.
If you’re leasing through a flexible provider like Workspace365, inspections are simple and pressure-free. You can visit multiple locations, see available layouts, and find the perfect match for your business.
6. Think about scalability
Businesses change – and your workspace should be able to change with you. When you lease office space, look for flexibility to scale up or down as your team grows or contracts.
Long-term, fixed leases often make this difficult. Flexible office solutions, on the other hand, let you upgrade from a single desk to a full suite without having to renegotiate contracts. This scalability keeps you agile and protects your budget.
7. Consider your image and culture
Your office is more than a place to work – it’s part of your brand. The design, layout, and atmosphere should reflect your values and make a positive impression on clients and employees alike.
An open, light-filled office communicates transparency and creativity. A private suite signals focus and professionalism. Shared lounges and breakout spaces encourage collaboration and social connection.
At Workspace365, offices are designed to balance professionalism with warmth – helping your team feel proud of where they work.
8. Get professional advice
If you’re signing a traditional lease, it’s always worth having a solicitor or commercial leasing expert review the contract. They’ll help you understand your obligations and identify any risks.
If you’re choosing a flexible serviced office instead, the process is much simpler – fewer legal formalities and faster move-in times.
Leasing your first office space doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Start by understanding your needs, setting a budget, and finding a location that works for both your team and your clients.
Whether you’re launching a startup, expanding your operations, or stepping into your first professional space, a flexible lease can give you the freedom to grow without the long-term pressure.
At Workspace365, we make it easy to lease office space that fits your goals – with professional environments, transparent pricing, and no hidden surprises. Because your office should work for you, not the other way around.