Along with New York, London is understandably ranked as one of the world’s foremost business cities. Your office and all your associated commercial property creates and immediate and lasting impression for both clients and the general business community. This article can help you to source office space in London which always projects the optimal image.

The ‘Timeless Effect’

Certain prime areas of London are blessed with period properties which create automatic positive associations for any visitors, including those online. With the right period building you can enjoy an unspoken association with concepts such as "solid", "dependable", and "superior". However, London is widely acknowledged as suffering from a severe shortage of commercial property this year. One of the older prime estate agents is more likely to be able to show you a wider selection and better quality property here, including distinctive original features. Original features can help you capitalise on the ‘timeless effect’, again to convey that "long-established", "dependable" feel. Good examples might be those period properties in Holborn or Clerkenwell which suit certain professions very well, perhaps chosen for a traditional solicitor’s firm to convey a "reliability" concept and so on. It’s also vital to be certain before you commit that the building is well maintained, and particularly so for the older premises. You also shouldn’t compromise on location or facilities such as good transport links, tasteful refurbishments and natural light.

Modern Properties May Suit Your Industry

By contrast for some industries a contemporary ambience is far more beneficial - yet again London has something of a shortage of quality new build and modern commercial property. It has been speculated that London has not reached the next final phase in the development cycle, when more new properties are released onto the market. Again, you may well find the longer-established letting agents have a wider selection and a robust in-house acquisitions strategy can obviously present an advantage here.

When sourcing contemporary premises, it is particularly worth considering whether renting outside prime areas would suit your needs. The better agents usually offer both competitively priced prime and ‘Greater London’ properties. However, if on reflection you are certain that a prime location is important for your business, you really will need to work a prime specialist agent.

It’s Not All About Location

And then again, for office space in London there are many other factors that will seriously impact upon your corporate image. Always consider your clients transport needs - if your letting agent has difficulty offering you competitively priced premises near parking and public transport you are simply advised to change agents. Then there is the presentation within the communal areas, business facilities and the standards to which the property is generally maintained will all contribute towards vital first impressions.

Whilst cost per square foot is always a key consideration, it is worth considering the intangible value you could gain from well chosen office space in London. Your commercial property is as much an asset as any other - make sure your letting agent offers you competitive rather than ‘cheaper’ pricing.