Depends on what the meaning is “is” is--Maybe That’s Why We Have Lawyers
Have you ever heard the expression, “If it’s not contained in the four corners of the document, then it isn’t so.” What most lawyers mean by that expression is that if the document you are relying on doesn’t clearly define or discuss the issue, then it wasn’t part of the deal. What is more complex to the average tenant than the lease? Yes, those 30-40 pages of legalize that describes just about every evil thing that a landlord can do to you during the term if you as much as sway off the track.
Negotiate Your Lease
You sign contracts for many items your business is involved in yet more often than not tenants sign the landlord’s “standard” lease form with little more than a review of the basic terms of start date, termination date, and rent. Better take a more careful look at the body. Hopefully, your broker knows enough about leases. He should be able not only find hidden costs but also save on some legal expenses so your attorney only needs to check the legalize and give their final blessings.
It is not unusual for us at IN/House to suggest 40-50 modifications to a lease. Typically we can get agreement on most of the changes. As long as they make sense to both parties, most landlords will be accommodating. Most important, the changes must protect your interests.
If you don’t ask, you don’t get.
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