Many business owners in Florida place full trust in their real estate agent when signing a commercial lease. And while agents are skilled at finding properties and negotiating prices, their role does not replace the legal guidance that every commercial lease requires.
Signing without fully understanding all legal implications is one of the most common—and costly—mistakes entrepreneurs make. Below, we reveal key points your real estate agent probably didn’t mention, but that you need to know before signing.
They are not obligated to protect your legal interests
Real estate agents often represent the property owner or landlord, even if they appear to work with both parties. Their main role is to facilitate the real estate transaction—not to identify or warn you about legal risks. They also don’t review contract clauses in depth or evaluate how those terms might affect you long-term.
A “standard” lease doesn’t always work in your favor
Many commercial leases are presented as “standard” forms, but that doesn’t mean they are fair or balanced. Some contain terms that heavily favor the landlord, such as automatic rent increases, use restrictions, or limitations on early termination. Only an attorney can spot these risks and help you negotiate better terms.
Price isn’t the only thing that’s negotiable
Your agent may focus on securing a competitive rental rate, but there are many other equally or more important issues to address. Maintenance responsibilities, repair obligations, renewal rights, early termination penalties, and subleasing options all need to be clearly defined in the lease. Skipping these terms can severely limit your business’s flexibility.
Zoning issues can stop your business from opening
A property may look ideal, but if it’s not zoned for your type of business, you could face delays, fines, or even be forced to shut down. Real estate agents don’t always include this analysis in their due diligence. Ensuring the zoning and local permits align with your intended business activity is a legal responsibility that must be handled before signing.
Your investment isn’t protected without legal advice
Opening a commercial location requires significant investment—renovations, furniture, inventory, branding, permits, and more. If your lease doesn’t clearly define your rights and obligations, that investment could be at risk due to a dispute, eviction, or forced closure. Legal counsel is not an extra cost—it’s a preventative tool that safeguards what you’ve built.
Missing key clauses could leave you without options
Many leases lack important clauses like exclusivity, subletting, force majeure, or expansion rights. These terms are negotiable, but landlords rarely offer them unless requested from the beginning. An attorney can help you include these strategic elements so your business remains adaptable to change and uncertainty.
Relying solely on your agent can leave you exposed. The right legal support makes the difference between a safe deal and a risky one.
Before signing, consult with commercial lease experts
At Jurado & Associates, we review, analyze, and negotiate commercial leases with a strategic approach. We explain every detail, protect you legally, and help you make smart, profitable decisions.
Message us today on WhatsApp at +1 305 921 0976 or send an email to [email protected]. We’re here to help you build your business on a solid foundation.
