Whether you are starting a new business or relocating to another city or state, it matters a lot to know where you want to set up shop. Location is critical to the success of your business. It can affect how you generate customers, manage your budget, and find opportunities for further expansion.

For this reason, finding a good location shouldn’t take you overnight. You will have to take your time in picking a location based on the nature of your business, your budget, and your overall goals. Otherwise, you could end up paying for an office space you can’t afford and reducing your business’s capacity for growth. Here are a few factors that influence your choice of a business location:

1. Business Goals

Any critical business decision should be based on whether it fits your goals. You can’t simply pick any city or community just because you feel the need to. It’s still crucial to know if the location aligns with your expectations and helps you achieve your long-term targets. If you want your business to open up a new branch, you may as well build one in another city. If you are planning to build a tech startup, consider picking a location where your industry thrives. By laying down specific objectives, you can avoid locations that won’t support your growth plan.

2. Market Conditions

As you look around for the perfect location for your business, you need to know the economic and demographic factors that can affect your bottom line. For this, consider the median commercial rent as well as other factors such as median wage growth and monthly migration. These factors can determine if you can afford to be there in the first place. Consider your budget and take time to know if the local population has a strong demand for the products and services you are selling. Once you have found the perfect place for your business, you just need to seek help in finding a good deal on a commercial lease.

3. Zoning Laws

You can’t pick just about any place for your business. There are zoning laws you need to consider and these can have a significant influence on your decisions. This is critical if your business belongs to manufacturing or other industries that have a significant effect on homeowners. As you survey a city, make sure to review local zoning ordinances. You should also take note of the local building code, required permits, and the distance your business has to maintain from public structures and utilities.

4. Strategic Requirements

In today’s commercial real estate market, you will need to be aggressive in looking for spaces that can help your business develop. Depending on your industry, you need to be strategic in finding areas that are accessible to consumers and employees and affordable in terms of rent and taxes. You will also need to choose commercial spaces that provide the amenities your business requires.

It can be daunting to find a great commercial space, so you might want to get help from a local professional. If you are planning to move your law firm or CPA organization to Los Angeles, you can reach out to The Jeff Tabor Group so you can find the best areas to settle in.

5. Local Competitors

Knowing where your closest competitors are located is especially critical if you own a fast-food chain or any other type of business that generates walk-in customers. Although moving close to your competitors allows you to absorb demand, there’s also a good chance of failure, especially if your competitors have already established themselves among the local populace. You just need to make your business stand out so local consumers can decide whether you are worth checking out.

6. Operational expenses

As you factor in the cost of rent and taxes, you will also need to take note of your energy and water costs, insurance premiums, and the potential income you will be able to generate in the long run. From there, you will be able to make adjustments in your plans and decide whether you should start with a smaller commercial space and see where you can go from there.

Moving to a great location can cost a lot of time and money. When done correctly, it can bring even more growth opportunities to the table. Keep these tips in mind as you scout for the best commercial space for your business.