In Massachusetts, commercial real estate projects involve more than just financing and design. Developers must also navigate complex legal regulations. Even well-planned projects can be halted if certain legal issues are not addressed. From zoning laws to...
Commercial Real Estate
What is a net lease in commercial leases?
Business owners often opt to rent properties instead of purchasing one. Sometimes, this is because they don’t want the responsibility of having a property and other times because they may have the capital available to make the investment in a property. Commercial...
What is a zoning variance?
A zoning variance is a special legal exception that allows a property owner to use land in a way that does not fully comply with current zoning laws in a particular jurisdiction. When it comes to commercial real estate, zoning laws control how land can be used—for...
What is a ground lease agreement?
When considering commercial property options, you may encounter the concept of a "ground lease." Unlike traditional leases, a ground lease allows long-term use of land without transferring ownership. This arrangement provides unique advantages and risks for both...
What are good practices for negotiating commercial leases?
Commercial lease agreements are important for businesses and landlords. These agreements outline the terms for renting a commercial space. Good negotiation skills can help both parties reach an agreement that works. Understanding lease terms Before negotiations begin,...
How remote work changed commercial offices and property use
Remote work has changed how businesses use office space. Many companies no longer need large offices, which affects lease agreements and landlord-tenant relationships. As more employees work from home, businesses and property owners must adjust to new leasing needs,...
How do zoning laws affect commercial property development?
Zoning laws play a big part in deciding how to build commercial properties. These laws say where businesses can go and set rules for how to use buildings, how big they can be, and where they can sit on the land. In Massachusetts, each town and city has its own zoning...
How does business structure impact real estate ownership?
Picking the right type of business structure is an important step when owning commercial real estate. This decision affects safety, taxes, and how the property is managed. Protecting personal assets The type of business you choose can help protect your personal...
How is remote work changing commercial lease agreements?
The rise of remote work has changed the way many businesses think about office space. Commercial lease agreements have evolved as companies adjust to new needs. This blog will explore how the shift to remote work is impacting these agreements. Reduced need for large...
Legal challenges when converting historic buildings in MA
Turning historic buildings into commercial properties can be a benefit, but it comes with several challenges. There are rules in place to protect these buildings, so it's important to be aware of the legal steps involved. Preservation rules and approvals Many historic...