When looking to secure a commercial lease, potential tenants must present a solid case to prospective landlords, not just in terms of business plans and space requirements, but also through a robust display of their financial health. This is because landlords are highly concerned about the ability of a tenant to meet their lease obligations over the term of the agreement. Therefore, having a comprehensive and transparent financial package ready can significantly improve your chances of securing the ideal commercial space for your business. Below, we detail the types of financial documents and information that are commonly required in a commercial lease application.
1. Financial Statements
a. Profit and Loss Statements: Also known as income statements, these documents show the company’s revenues, costs, and expenses over a specific period. They provide insight into the profitability of the business and its ability to generate consistent income.
b. Balance Sheets: This statement outlines the company’s assets, liabilities, and shareholders’ equity. It gives landlords a snapshot of your financial position at a specific point in time, highlighting your company’s solvency and liquidity.
c. Cash Flow Statements: This document provides a detailed breakdown of how cash enters and leaves your business. It shows the company’s ability to generate cash from operations, which is crucial for covering ongoing lease payments and other obligations.
2. Business Credit Report
A business credit report provides a comprehensive overview of your company’s creditworthiness. It includes credit history, credit scores, and details of any credit issues or defaults. Landlords use this report to assess the risk of extending a lease to your business.
3. Tax Returns
Providing copies of your business tax returns for the past two to three years is often required. These documents help landlords verify your reported income and assess your business’s financial health over a longer period.
4. Personal Financial Statements
For small businesses or startups, landlords may request personal financial statements from the business owners. This can include personal tax returns and statements of personal assets and liabilities, especially if the business itself does not yet have a substantial financial track record.
5. Bank Statements
Bank statements from the past few months provide a current view of your business’s cash flow and liquidity. They show your day-to-day financial activity and help landlords verify your available funds for lease obligations.
6. Business Plan and Projections
For newer businesses, a detailed business plan that includes financial projections for the next few years can be essential. This plan should include expected revenue, profit margins, and growth plans. Landlords use this to gauge the future stability and growth potential of your business.
7. Proof of Insurance
Most commercial leases require tenants to maintain specific types of insurance coverage. Providing proof of existing insurance or a commitment to obtain the required coverage demonstrates your preparedness and responsibility.
8. References and Trade Creditors
Providing references from previous landlords or key trade creditors can add an extra layer of credibility to your application. These references should attest to your business’s reliability and financial responsibility.
Why These Financials Matter
Landlords look at these financial documents to assess:
- Risk Mitigation: Understanding the financial stability of a tenant helps landlords reduce the risk of default on lease payments.
- Financial Health: Evaluating financial statements and credit reports helps landlords ensure that a business can sustain itself over the lease term.
- Growth Potential: Reviewing business plans and projections allows landlords to gauge the potential for your business to grow and remain viable over time.
- Insurance Coverage: Ensuring adequate insurance coverage is crucial for protecting both the tenant’s and landlord’s interests in case of unforeseen events.
Tips for Preparing Your Financials
- Be Transparent: Provide complete and accurate information. Transparency builds trust and shows that you are a reliable and serious applicant.
- Organize Your Documents: Ensure that all your financial documents are well-organized and easy to review. This makes the application process smoother and demonstrates professionalism.
- Update Regularly: Keep your financial documents up to date. Outdated financials can paint an inaccurate picture of your current financial situation.
- Seek Professional Help: If you’re unsure about how to prepare your financials, consider seeking help from an accountant or financial advisor.
By being prepared with a thorough and organized financial package, you position your business as a reliable and trustworthy tenant. This not only improves your chances of securing the lease but also helps build a positive relationship with your landlord from the outset. Have questions? Our experienced commercial real estate professionals at Mallach and Company are always here to help you navigate the process. Reach out to us today!
