Finding the perfect property for your Miami-based corporate office may take some time. Different areas within the city appeal to certain types of businesses more than others, and you may find that a Class A office building in Brickell better suits your needs than one in Wynwood or Miami Beach, for example.

Once you do find the right property, next comes securing the lease, which can be its own kind of tricky. Competition is stiff for these high-demand properties, and you may need to negotiate in order to officially call the office space your own. Before going into a lease negotiation, be sure to know your worth and what your company and brand will bring in terms of value to the property and landlord.

You’ve Signed the Lease. Now What?

There will be wide variability in how move-in ready your building will be when leased. Some may just need final branding touches, whereas others will be a white shell or gray box that will need more construction. As part of your lease negotiation, ask the landlord if there is an improvement allowance for you to renovate the space. Be sure also to ask what building rules and restrictions there are for construction. Your GC should be on top of this, but it’s important for you to know as well.

Before you can officially operate a business in Miami, you need to take on some administrative work. The City of Miami offers a guide to opening a business, which walks you through two essential things your need to begin business in Miami.

• A Certificate of Use – this is something you secure after construction is complete. It includes an application process, completing inspections and obtaining zoning approval.

• A Business Tax Receipt (formerly known as an Occupational License) is obtained after receiving your Certificate of Use.

These documents enable you to conduct business in Miami. Partnering with a well-connected and local GC who is familiar with the processes and rules for commercial structures can help speed up this process. For help moving from lease through opening your doors for business, come talk to us at Seacoast Construction. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.