A variance may be granted to property owners who need to use their property in a way that would otherwise be prohibited by local zoning regulations. It gives those property owners the legal authority to deviate from the regulations in a specific way. Most properties...
Commercial Real Estate
What to do if my commercial tenant stops paying rent
As a commercial property owner in Boston, a tenant missing a rent payment can instantly disrupt your finances and operations. Commercial tenancies in Massachusetts are heavily contract-driven, meaning your first line of defense is always the document you signed....
3 ways landlords can protect themselves from tenant bankruptcy
Even the most reliable tenants can face financial trouble. If a commercial tenant files for bankruptcy, it can affect your cash flow and interrupt your property activities. Knowing how to guard your business can help you reduce risk while following federal bankruptcy...
What to know before signing a commercial lease in Boston
Renting space for a business is one of the biggest financial commitments a company can make. In Boston, where commercial rents remain among the highest in the country, the terms locked into a lease can shape a business's finances for years. Unlike residential...
What are the legal implications of co-working space leases in MA?
Co-working spaces have reshaped how businesses use commercial property across Massachusetts. These flexible arrangements can reduce costs and offer convenience, but they also raise legal issues you should understand before signing an agreement. A shared workspace...
What are the risks of short-term leases for commercial owners?
Short-term leases can look appealing when you want flexibility or quick rental income. They may allow frequent rent adjustments and easier tenant changes. Even so, these leases bring risks that can affect income, operations, and long-term property stability. Income...
How do green building standards affect commercial lease terms?
More businesses want eco-friendly buildings that save money and match their values. Because of this, green building standards are changing how landlords and tenants write commercial leases. These rules can shape who pays for upgrades, how costs are shared, and what...
Can my landlord raise my rent anytime?
Your rent is likely the biggest bill you pay, and every dollar added to that sum comes directly out of your business's profit margin. A sudden, unscheduled rent increase is often an immediate concern to the long-term viability of the enterprise. Can a landlord truly...
Will ghost kitchens reshape retail strip centers?
Ghost kitchens—delivery-only restaurants without a dining room—have grown quickly as food delivery becomes a normal part of daily life. Their rise sparks new questions for retail strip centers, many of which have struggled with vacancies in recent years. Could ghost...
Using a break clause in a commercial lease
When drafting a commercial lease, it is imperative that all sides know exactly what clauses they can use and how these may alter the agreement. Often, various clauses help to define rights and responsibilities on both sides once the agreement has been reached. One...

