7 Tips from an Asset Manager for Finding New Commercial Space

May 29, 2026

The world of work has changed significantly in recent years. Employees are demanding greater flexibility, companies are competing for the best talent, and the growing focus on well-being, sustainability, and overall economic efficiency means that the choice of commercial space has never been more important.

The office is no longer just a place where employees show up for work. It has become a strategic tool for strengthening corporate culture, attracting new employees, and creating the best environment for growth.

At the same time, the market is undergoing a period of major change. Interest rates, geopolitical uncertainty, new ways of working, and changing commuting patterns mean that companies should be asking themselves this question more than ever: How do we ensure that our next workplace supports our business—not just today, but also five years from now?

In this guide, Katrine Ildal Nielsen, Head of Property & Asset Management at Stensdal, shares seven specific tips for companies considering new commercial space or renegotiating their current lease.

After all, choosing commercial space isn’t just about rent and square meters—it’s about creating workplaces where businesses grow and people thrive.

1. Consider the total value of a new office

It may be tempting to focus on the rent per square meter, but the best leasing decisions are made from a comprehensive financial and strategic perspective.

When evaluating new office spaces, companies should take into account, among other things, operating costs, energy consumption, fit-out expenses, parking facilities, employees’ commute times, and the impact of the office space on recruitment and employee retention.

In practice, a rental property with a slightly higher rent may be the best solution if it offers modern amenities, lower energy consumption, and an attractive location that makes it easier to attract talent.

Conversely, a seemingly inexpensive lease can quickly become a costly solution if the building is energy-intensive, requires significant investment, or results in long commutes for employees.

So don’t just ask, “How much do the premises cost?” But rather, “What value will the premises create for our company and employees over the next 3–5 years?”

The most attractive companies of the future will often be those that invest in environments that support growth, well-being, and productivity.

2. Prioritize flexibility in the contract

In an uncertain market, flexibility is worth its weight in gold. Negotiate options for terminating, expanding, or reducing the space directly into the lease agreement. A good landlord understands that businesses’ needs change and offers lease models that can be adapted.

Be sure to ask specifically: Can we scale up by adding extra floors or modules if we grow? Can we give up part of the space if the market declines? And what will it cost?

3. Choose a landlord who is more than just a provider of square meters

A professional and dedicated landlord can have a significant impact on a company’s day-to-day operations and long-term well-being. Therefore, find out how the landlord handles customer service, property management, and the relationship with tenants.

For example, ask the following questions:

Is the landlord easy to reach and quick to respond to inquiries?

Are there ongoing investments in the property and the common areas?

Are active efforts being made to promote health, safety, and well-being in the building?

Is there a focus on indoor air quality, emergency preparedness, maintenance, and mandatory inspections?

Does the landlord see himself as a long-term partner?

The best landlords actively work to create attractive workplaces through impressive entrance areas, well-maintained common areas, good lunch options, strong support services, and ongoing improvements to the properties.

At a time when companies are competing to attract and retain the best employees, an ambitious landlord can be a key partner. A good working relationship between tenant and landlord contributes to greater employee well-being, higher satisfaction, and a more productive workplace.

View Stensdal's latest annual report here:

Annual report

4. Choose a location based on your employees—not on the ZIP code

A prestigious address in the city center is no longer automatically the right choice. With hybrid work and changing commuting patterns, location today is more about accessibility for employees than about a specific ZIP code. Map out where your employees live and choose office spaces that minimize average commute time.

Areas along the Greater Copenhagen Light Rail and the Ring 3 corridor, for example, offer quick access from Amager, Vestegnen, and North Zealand—often with shorter travel times than to the city center. An analysis by Lederne shows that the five municipalities with the highest percentage growth in employment from the fourth quarter of 2023 to the fourth quarter of 2025 are all municipalities in the Capital Region: Glostrup, Herlev, Albertslund, Brøndby, and Høje-Taastrup. As a business, it’s worth looking toward areas where there is positive growth. (Source: Lederne, 2026)

5. Add energy and sustainability to your checklist

Energy costs have risen significantly and are becoming an increasingly important factor in the overall calculation. In addition, employees, customers, and investors are placing greater demands on companies’ sustainability profiles. Ask about the property’s energy rating, heat source, lighting control and building automation systems, solar panels, and green certifications.

6. Think beyond square meters

The best leasing decisions aren’t just about what’s inside the building. Common areas, lunch options, parking, breakout zones, fitness and shower facilities, terraces, and outdoor spaces—as well as what the surrounding area has to offer (restaurants, gyms, grocery stores)—all play a significant role in shaping the employee experience and fostering a sense of community among staff. At a time when the office is still competing with the home office, it’s essential to consider the big picture and the many criteria involved—so that the focus isn’t on square meters, but on workplaces. Attractive and inspiring surroundings can help increase job satisfaction, strengthen company culture, and make it easier to attract and retain talented employees.

7. Consult an advisor—or at least a critical friend

It may be tempting to go directly to the landlord and negotiate on your own, but a fluctuating market has nuances that require market knowledge. A commercial real estate broker or an experienced advisor can help you benchmark rent levels, spot hidden costs, and negotiate terms you might not have considered on your own. Alternatively: Find a landlord with whom you have good chemistry and open communication, and who acts as a sounding board rather than just a provider of square meters.

Katrine Ildal Nielsen

Katrine is Head of Property & Asset Management at Stensdal, with over 15 years of experience in areas such as institutional real estate investment and international real estate companies. She brings a strategic and operational holistic perspective to issues related to leasing, operations, and portfolio development.