How To Kick Off The Office Search

Making it to the point that you're looking for a new office is an exciting time in any business's life. This may be the first real space you’ll move your team into, or perhaps you've outgrown your current pace and are ready for something bigger and more established. Finding the perfect office space in London can be a fun yet overwhelming process. With so many options available, it's crucial to plan your search efficiently. 

Working with a broker from Kontor will inevitably give you a head start. Having worked across the globe, our team members are seasoned professionals in finding the perfect space for any business. A broker can save you time by streamlining the process, providing access to exclusive listings, and using expert negotiation skills. They can support you in handling admin work, allowing you to focus on your business.

Before you start

Just remember, before you start booking viewings, it is important to get a rough idea of what you're looking for. An idea of size, number of desks, amenities, and location can speed up the process by helping your broker with what to include in your searches. Have a look at our guide to navigating London’s office market for help with this. 

Now that you’ve chosen your broker and decided what you’re looking for, the broker will support you by compiling a list of spaces that they know fit your requirements. You may find that some of their spaces fit the majority of the requirements and that some are a little outside what you were initially thinking; this is usually because our brokers know the city well and can often find the perfect space in an area you hadn’t thought about. Once you’ve had a look over what they've sent through, we can book some viewings. 

We recommend booking viewings at least a week in advance of wanting to see the space. While there is a possibility of attending on shorter notice, giving at least a week allows us to:  

Ensure Space Availability: London's commercial property market moves fast, and last-minute viewings can lead to disappointment. Many London office spaces require at least 24 hours’ notice to inform existing tenants, meaning a rushed approach could limit your options. By booking a week in advance, you increase your chances of seeing all the workspaces that fit your criteria.

Allow for Thorough Preparation: When you schedule a viewing in advance, your broker or office provider has time to prepare. This means they can gather key details such as:

• The property’s history and any recent improvements

• Availability updates (some offices get snapped up quickly!)

• Efficiently planning your viewings if you’re exploring multiple workspaces

A well-prepared viewing means you can ask the right questions and make a more informed decision.

Flexible Scheduling That Works for You: Balancing office hunting with your workload isn’t easy. Booking early allows you to pick a time slot that works around your business schedule rather than squeezing in last-minute viewings that may not be at the most convenient times.

Reduce Stress and Make Better Decisions: Property hunting, especially in a competitive market like London, can be stressful. Leaving things to the last minute often results in rushed decisions, missed opportunities, and unnecessary anxiety. A planned approach gives you time to compare options, weigh up the pros and cons of different London office spaces, and ultimately choose the right workspace for your needs.

Ready to Find Your Perfect Office?

If you're searching for a serviced, managed, or leased office in London, planning ahead is key. Booking your viewings at least a week in advance can help you navigate the market with confidence, ensuring you find a space that truly meets your business needs.

Need assistance with your office search? Get in touch today, and let’s find the ideal London workspace for you!