01
Start with the complete picture
Rent, business rates and service charge form the recurring base. Rent-free periods, landlord contributions and stepped rents then change the effective cost over the term. Fit-out, furniture, dilapidations and professional fees can be just as important, particularly when comparing fitted, Cat A and managed space.
02
Compare like with like
A fully fitted office may carry a higher rent but require far less capital and management time. A lower-rent Cat A floor may look attractive until fit-out expenditure and the programme are included. Managed space can provide speed and flexibility, but the bundled price should be tested against a conventional lease on the same basis.
03
Make the decision usable
The most useful output is a monthly all-in figure and a net effective rent, supported by a clear explanation of the assumptions. That gives decision-makers a commercial comparison they can actually use.