Property articles / Commercial Guide

By Alicia Ong Property & Management

Viewing a commercial space: what should you prepare?

A useful viewing starts before you reach the property. A clear brief helps you compare spaces on the things your business actually needs, rather than appearance alone.

Bring a brief for your business

Write down your intended use, preferred locations, approximate space requirements and target move-in date. Separate essentials from preferences: a customer-facing entrance may matter more than a particular finish, while a quiet layout may be essential for an office.

Share that brief with Alicia so the viewing shortlist has a clear purpose. Include who will use the premises, whether clients visit and any practical access needs.

Walk through an ordinary working day

Consider how staff, customers and deliveries would move through the space. Check the entrance, lift access, parking arrangements, layout and areas you would need to adapt. Ask which facilities are shared and what access arrangements apply.

Take notes and photos with permission. Record questions that need confirmation rather than assuming a feature is available because you saw it during a viewing.

Discuss preparation and handover

Ask what condition the premises will be handed over in, which fixtures are included and what work you would need before occupation. Clarify how contractor access, scheduling and any building requirements will be handled.

Keep the proposed fit-out and your move-in date in the same conversation. A suitable-looking space still needs a workable preparation plan.

Your viewing checklist

• Intended use, location priorities and space requirements.
• Staff, customer and delivery access.
• Existing layout, included fixtures and proposed changes.
• Questions about building arrangements and required approvals.
• Proposed handover condition and preparation timeline.
• Terms and responsibilities to clarify before proceeding.

Keep unresolved questions visible

After the viewing, compare properties against the same brief. Ask the relevant parties to confirm suitability, permissions and lease or purchase arrangements before committing. Alicia can coordinate the shortlist, enquiries and next steps with you.

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Published 2 October 2026. General practical guidance; suitability, permissions, terms and responsibilities need confirmation for your premises. Images are illustrative.