One World Commercial
Commercial Real Estate Services
Ronald Filian, Managing Broker IL.
FLEX COMMERCIAL
REAL ESTATE
What is Flex Commercial Real Estate?
Flex commercial real estate refers to versatile property types that combine different uses within a single space. Typically, a flex space can incorporate office, warehouse, and light industrial operations under one roof. This flexibility makes it ideal for businesses that require multifunctional areas to support both administrative and operational tasks.
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Key Characteristics of Flex Space
Flex commercial real estate is designed with adaptability in mind. These properties often feature:
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Mixed-use Layouts: Flex spaces are designed to allow for both office space and industrial or warehouse areas. For example, a company may use part of the space for product storage and another part as an administrative office.
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Open Floor Plans: Flex spaces usually have open layouts that tenants can customize based on their needs. This allows for easy modifications, making the space adaptable to various business operations.
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Loading Docks and High Ceilings: Many flex spaces come equipped with loading docks and high ceilings, making them ideal for businesses that require logistics capabilities or need to store large items.
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Prime Locations: Flex properties are often located in areas with easy access to major highways or transportation hubs, allowing businesses to efficiently move goods and services.
The Growing Demand for Flex Space
The demand for flex commercial real estate has been increasing in recent years due to its adaptability and cost-effectiveness. Several factors are driving this trend:
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Hybrid Work Models: As more companies embrace hybrid work environments, they seek spaces that can accommodate a range of functions, from office work to storage and light manufacturing.
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Small and Medium-sized Businesses: Flex spaces are particularly attractive to small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) looking for affordable commercial real estate options that can grow and evolve with their operations.
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E-commerce Growth: With the rise of e-commerce, companies are looking for spaces that can serve as distribution centers while also providing office space for administrative functions.
Types of Flex Space
There are different types of flex commercial real estate, each tailored to specific industry needs:
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Office-Warehouse Flex: These spaces combine office areas with warehouses, allowing businesses to manage administrative tasks alongside inventory or production.
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R&D Flex: Research and development (R&D) flex spaces are ideal for companies involved in innovation and product development. These spaces provide room for lab work or testing alongside offices.
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Industrial Flex: Industrial flex spaces are designed for light manufacturing and assembly, making them suitable for businesses that need both production and office space.
Benefits of Flex Commercial Real Estate
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Cost Efficiency: Flex space is often more affordable than traditional office spaces or industrial facilities, providing businesses with a cost-effective solution to their operational needs.
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Customization: Flex spaces are highly customizable, allowing businesses to tailor the space to fit their specific operational requirements.
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Scalability: Flex real estate offers scalability. Companies can expand or modify their space as their business grows without the need for relocation.
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Diverse Use: Flex spaces can serve multiple purposes, such as office, retail, storage, or production, making them ideal for companies with varying operational needs.
Challenges of Flex Commercial Real Estate
While flex spaces offer many advantages, they also present certain challenges:
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Zoning Restrictions: Depending on the location, flex spaces may be subject to zoning regulations that restrict certain types of activities, such as manufacturing or heavy industrial use.
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Limited Availability: In highly sought-after areas, finding the right flex space can be challenging due to limited inventory.
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Shared Facilities: Businesses in flex spaces may have to share common areas like loading docks, which could lead to logistical challenges.
Why Choose One World Commercial for Flex Commercial Real Estate?
One World Commercial specializes in identifying the ideal flex commercial real estate for businesses of all sizes. With a deep understanding of the U.S. commercial real estate market, the team at One World Commercial provides expert guidance in selecting the right property to match a client’s specific needs. Whether you’re a small business looking for an adaptable space or a large enterprise seeking to consolidate office and warehouse functions, One World Commercial’s tailored approach ensures you get the best value from your investment.
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One World Commercial’s comprehensive services include:
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Property Search and Selection: Leveraging market insights, they help businesses find the right flex space in prime locations.
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Lease Negotiation: The team provides expert negotiation services to ensure favorable lease terms that align with a business’s long-term goals.
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Customization Support: One World Commercial can assist in optimizing flex space layouts to meet operational needs, providing a seamless transition into new facilities.
Flex commercial real estate offers businesses the opportunity to consolidate various operational functions into one versatile space. With the growing demand for flexible work environments and cost-effective real estate solutions, flex properties are an increasingly popular choice across a wide range of industries.
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If you’re exploring flex commercial real estate options, One World Commercial is here to help you find the perfect space that meets your business's unique needs and objectives. One World Commercial can provide the guidance and support needed to navigate this complex and rapidly evolving market. ​Let One World Commercial help you unlock the potential of the commercial real estate market. Contact us today to get started.