Business
Fact-checked

At SmartCapitalMind, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

What are Office Condominiums?

Michael Pollick
Michael Pollick
Michael Pollick
Michael Pollick

Office condominiums work much like their private housing counterparts. Instead of renting a suite of offices, some companies purchase an individual unit in a complex. The common areas are co-owned by all of the tenants and a board usually oversees landscaping and other maintenance issues. Office condos are often created as part of a mixed-use renovation in downtown areas of medium to smaller cities.

There are some advantages and disadvantages to office condominiums. One plus is increased ownership rights compared to renting or leasing equivalent space. Rental properties are always under the control of a landlord, which means that monthly rent could be raised or the lease terminated with short notice to the tenant. By owning the space, companies in condiminiums can avoid such surprises. The monthly mortgage should remain relatively stable over the life of the loan.

Instead of renting a suite of offices, some companies purchase an individual unit in a complex.
Instead of renting a suite of offices, some companies purchase an individual unit in a complex.

Office condominiums are ideal for professionals and companies that can safely predict their permanent space needs. An architectural firm or small advertising agency might do well in such a setting, but a fledgling manufacturing company could find future expansion nearly impossible. There may also be restrictions on the type of business which may be conducted in units. The facilities may not be able to accommodate excessive customer parking, for example.

In some locations, office condos share a building with a restaurant or commercial retailer.
In some locations, office condos share a building with a restaurant or commercial retailer.

One plus for those leasing office condominiums is the benefit of mixed-use buildings. It is not unusual for restaurants, specialty stores and other consumer outlets to share space with condos. This means that employees of these offices don't have to travel far for entertainment and food. Mixed-use buildings tend to be located in downtown areas or other high-traffic business centers.

During economic downturns, larger companies may invest in office condominiums in order to consolidate departments. Smaller companies may not see the benefits of condo ownership if their current rental or leasing arrangements appear beneficial. Units are often constructed on the 'If we build it, they will come' business model.

Michael Pollick
Michael Pollick

A regular SmartCapitalMind contributor, Michael enjoys doing research in order to satisfy his wide-ranging curiosity about a variety of arcane topics. Before becoming a professional writer, Michael worked as an English tutor, poet, voice-over artist, and DJ.

Learn more...
Michael Pollick
Michael Pollick

A regular SmartCapitalMind contributor, Michael enjoys doing research in order to satisfy his wide-ranging curiosity about a variety of arcane topics. Before becoming a professional writer, Michael worked as an English tutor, poet, voice-over artist, and DJ.

Learn more...

You might also Like

Discussion Comments

luxcap123

Regarding the stability of mortgage payments over that of standard yearly rent increases...there are a number of new commercial mortgage programs designed specifically for office condos, including a 20, 25, and even 30 year fixed rates. One company offers fully amortizing 30 year fixed rate commercial mortgages. I recently purchased a warehouse condo with only 10% down and am now paying a fixed rate for the next 30 years. What peace of mind!

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • Instead of renting a suite of offices, some companies purchase an individual unit in a complex.
      By: Minerva Studio
      Instead of renting a suite of offices, some companies purchase an individual unit in a complex.
    • In some locations, office condos share a building with a restaurant or commercial retailer.
      By: dbvirago
      In some locations, office condos share a building with a restaurant or commercial retailer.