Malori Bizzell

16420 Park Ten Houston

Hartman Properties Announces Strong Q1 2025 Performance with Leasing Momentum and Portfolio Growth Across Texas

Hartman Properties portfolio reaches nearly 85% occupied as the Houston-based firm projects unprecedented growth into Q2 2025.  Houston, TX – Hartman Properties, one of Texas’ leading commercial real estate firms, today announced robust Q1 2025 performance results across its office and retail portfolio, signaling strong leasing momentum and increased occupancy fueled by tenant expansion, market confidence, and a shift back to in-person business operations. Houston, TX — As Houston’s Energy Corridor experiences a powerful rebound in commercial real estate activity, Hartman Properties is doubling down on the area’s long-term potential. Through its investment platform, Hartman vREIT XXI, the firm has acquired seven strategically located office properties in the Energy Corridor—transforming them through its proven leasing and repositioning strategy and outperforming market expectations.As of April 1, 2025, Hartman’s overall portfolio occupancy reached 84.55%, a notable 2.3-point increase from the year’s starting point of 82.25% on January 1. The company anticipates further occupancy gains in Q2, with projections pushing beyond 85.5%—a benchmark that underscores Hartman’s consistent ability to outperform market trends through strategic asset management and tenant engagement.BD Energy Systems LLC is a world leading engineering company operating in the petrochemical, fertilizer, refining, and gas processing industry specializing in projects covering efficiency & energy Improvement, modernization & revamp Methane reformers, and engineering, design and supply of FCCU Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) systems.“Q1 was a powerful affirmation of our value-driven strategy and focus on creating high-performing, tenant-friendly properties,” said Al Hartman, CEO of Hartman Properties. “We’re proud to report momentum not just in overall occupancy, but across virtually every asset in our portfolio.” Spotlight on The Spectrum BuildingThe Spectrum Building, a standout Hartman asset in San Antonio, led portfolio gains this quarter. The building surged from 74.31% occupancy on January 1 to 80.49% on March 1, driven by four new lease deals totaling 15,420 square feet, including the recent signing of Family First Life, an expanding insurance brokerage.“Spectrum’s success is a testament to San Antonio’s dynamic economic growth and the increasing appeal of Hartman’s tenant-first philosophy,” said Margaret Hartman, Chief Operating Officer. “Our on-the-ground leasing teams are doing exceptional work in matching the right businesses with the right spaces.” Portfolio-Wide Highlights 10 out of 11 Hartman-owned properties are now operating above 75% occupancy, reflecting a 91% asset performance rate portfolio-wide.  The Colony Retail continues to operate at 100% occupancy, maintaining its position as a high-performing retail center.  Medical and healthcare leasing at 3100 Weslayan in Houston remains a key growth area, with plans to expand the availability of spec suites ranging from 1,300 to 6,000 square feet for medical users. “We don’t just buy properties—we unlock potential,” said Al Hartman, Founder and CEO of Hartman Properties. “Our team has a time-tested strategy to identify undervalued assets, apply disciplined capital improvements, and create environments where businesses want to grow. The Energy Corridor exemplifies our belief in the long-term economic resilience of Houston and the power of boots-on-the-ground management.”These results reflect Hartman’s strategic investment in capital improvements, turnkey spec suites, and flexible lease terms—all part of the company’s effort to accommodate the evolving demands of today’s office and medical users. Looking AheadAt the core of Hartman’s philosophy is a sharp focus on value-add commercial assets—buildings that offer both current income and future upside through re-tenanting, redevelopment, or repositioning. The firm’s model has consistently delivered strong returns in Texas’s most competitive markets, with a growing portfolio across Houston, Dallas-Fort Worth, and San Antonio.With Q2 projections targeting 85.5%+ portfolio occupancy, Hartman Properties is poised to build on this momentum through an aggressive leasing strategy, high-touch tenant services, and targeted expansion in Houston’s growing medical office market.“We are bullish on what lies ahead,” said Hartman. “Our strong start to 2025 is a clear signal to the market: quality, location, and service matter—and Hartman delivers all three.”For leasing opportunities or to learn more about available suites across the Hartman portfolio, visit www.hartman-properties.com. About Hartman Properties Hartman Properties is a premier commercial real estate investment company headquartered in Houston, Texas. With more than 60 commercial properties across major Texas cities, Hartman delivers value-driven leasing, superior asset management, and unwavering dedication to tenants. Learn more at www.hartman-properties.com.

Hartman Properties Announces Strong Q1 2025 Performance with Leasing Momentum and Portfolio Growth Across Texas Read More »

How Much Office Space Do You Really Need? A Smart Guide for Small to Mid-Sized Businesses

Office space isn’t just square footage — it’s a reflection of your business, culture, and future plans. Whether you’re launching a startup or expanding your growing team, the space you choose affects everything from employee happiness to your bottom line. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to calculate what you need (with flexibility in mind), how to create a space that works for your team, and how to plan for growth. Office Space Calculator: Start with the Numbers A general rule of thumb is: Open office layout: 100–150 sq ft per person Traditional office (private spaces): 150–250 sq ft per person But those are just starting points.  Over the 50 years, the average square footage per employee has steadily decreased. In the 1980s and 1990s, it was common for companies to have 250–300 square feet per person, with a more hierarchical office culture. This included large private offices and large workstations. As open-plan offices became popular by 2000, tech startups championed collaboration over cubicles. The square footage per person dropped significantly — and even more to around 150–175 square foot per person by the mid-2010s. Post-2020, the move to more hybrid and remote work has also affected this trend — with many businesses moving towards hot-desking, shared spaces, and flexible layouts to save on square footage and encourage collaboration. But here’s the catch: not everyone loves it. Even in a hybrid model, many employees still want their own personal space. Having a dedicated desk or office lets people leave their items and not have to “reset” every time they come to the office. It’s a small thing with a big psychological impact. While flexibility and shared areas are important, don’t overlook the comfort and stability that comes from having a space to call your own — especially if you’re focused on employee retention and satisfaction. Every business operates differently. One may prioritize creative collaboration zones, while another might need more private offices and quiet meeting spaces. The key is to match the layout and allocation of space to the way your team works day-to-day — and to leave just enough room to grow without paying for space you don’t use. Let’s break it down based on what your team actually needs — not just square footage, but how the space functions.  Basic Workspace Needs: Area Size Range Notes Desk space per employee 50–75 sq ft For individual workstations or desks Private office (exec/manager) 120–200 sq ft Varies by role or hierarchy Conference room (small) 150–200 sq ft 4–6 people Conference room (large) 250–400 sq ft 10–15 people Huddle room / breakout area 75–100 sq ft For 2–4 person chats Kitchenette / Break area 100–300 sq ft Depending on usage & team size Reception/waiting area 100–200 sq ft Optional for some small businesses Planning for Growth One of the most common questions small and mid-sized business owners face when securing office space is: Do we lease for what we need now, or plan ahead for a larger team? The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all, but here’s how to think through it: Option 1: Lease for what you need now + 15–20% extra Allows for 1–2 years of growth Budget-friendly More efficient use of space Option 2: Lease in a scalable space (same property, larger suites available) Gives you flexibility to expand without relocating Ideal if you expect rapid growth in 12–18 months Option 3: Plan to move later Pick a shorter lease term (e.g., 12–24 months) Best if you’re unsure of future headcount Design with Employee Experience in Mind (on a Budget) A happy team is a productive team — but you don’t need a high-end campus to create a great environment. Must-Have Zones: Quiet zones for deep work Collaborative areas (open lounges, huddle rooms) Flexible furniture that allows for quick layout changes Natural light and greenery for wellness Kitchenette or break space — even a small, clean area makes a difference Budget-Friendly Design Tips: Use modular furniture to adjust over time Create multi-use rooms (e.g., meeting room + quiet space) Look for lightly used furniture to save money Partner with a designer who specializes in small-to-medium sized businesses Your Office Should Work As Hard As You Do Don’t just think about how your office looks — think about how it functions. The best office space is one that scales with you, supports your team, and fits your budget. Whether you’re building out your first HQ or upgrading from a coworking space, use this guide (and calculator) to make smart, flexible decisions. Quick-Use Office Space Estimator Team Size Open Layout (Min) Hybrid Layout (Mid) Traditional Layout (Max) 5 500–750 sq ft 750–1,000 sq ft 1,000–1,250 sq ft 10 1,000–1,500 sq ft 1,500–2,000 sq ft 2,000–2,500 sq ft 20 2,000–3,000 sq ft 3,000–4,000 sq ft 4,000–5,000 sq ft 30+ Plan modular space or flexible options that allow for growth, meeting rooms, and support areas     Choosing the right office space is more than a numbers game — it’s about creating an environment that supports your team, fits your workflow, and sets you up for future success. Whether you’re building out your first space or looking to scale up, taking the time to think through your real needs (not just square footage) can save you time, money, and headaches down the road. Need help figuring out what’s right for your business? We’re happy to walk you through your options and help you find a space that works now — and grows with you later. Give us a call at 713-400-1000. Let’s find your perfect space together.

How Much Office Space Do You Really Need? A Smart Guide for Small to Mid-Sized Businesses Read More »

Ashford on the Bayou Houston

Hartman Properties Secures Major Lease Renewal with BD Energy Systems

BD Energy Systems Renews 15,000-Square-Foot Lease at Ashford on the Bayou in Houston, Reaffirming Its Commitment to Energy Innovation and Operational Excellence in the Petrochemical and Refining Industry Houston, TX – Hartman Ashford Bayou SPE, LLC, a subsidiary of Hartman Properties, proudly announces the long-term lease renewal with BD Energy Systems, LLC at Ashford on the Bayou, located at 1001 S. Dairy Ashford in Houston, Texas. The renewed lease encompasses 15,200 square feet of premier office space, solidifying the continued partnership between the two organizations and highlighting Hartman Properties’ strong performance in what has been a banner year of growth and success. The new lease term, effective January 1, 2025, extends through April 30, 2030, and ensures BD Energy Systems maintains its operations in Suite 410 of the Ashford on the Bayou property. The engineering firm will continue to utilize the space for a variety of business functions including administrative operations, training, and technical support. BD Energy Systems LLC is a world leading engineering company operating in the petrochemical, fertilizer, refining, and gas processing industry specializing in projects covering efficiency & energy Improvement, modernization & revamp Methane reformers, and engineering, design and supply of FCCU Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) systems. “We are proud to continue our relationship with BD Energy Systems, a respected global leader in engineering and innovation,” said Al Hartman, President and CEO of Hartman Properties. “This renewal is a testament to the trust we’ve built, the strength of the Energy Corridor, and our commitment to providing quality office environments that support long-term business growth. As we celebrate one of the strongest years in our company’s history, partnerships like this reinforce our vision for enduring success in Texas’ most vital industries.” The Trump administration’s policies, such as deregulation and tax cuts, are beneficial to the oil and gas industry. These moves create an environment of increased production and profitability, particularly in the Energy Corridor of Houston, which is a central hub for oil and gas companies. As a result, companies like BD Energy are encouraged to renew their leases, investing in long-term operations and maintaining a strong foothold in a region critical to the U.S. energy landscape. Ashford on the Bayou is a thoughtfully designed office building situated in Houston’s energy corridor, featuring natural light-filled spaces, beautiful exterior landscaping, and convenient access to major freeways and amenities. The lease renewal includes 67 parking spaces, 13 of which are reserved, and reflects Hartman’s standard for tenant-focused service, fair cost structures, and flexible terms. This lease marks yet another milestone in a record-setting year for Hartman Properties, which has demonstrated outstanding resilience and performance across major Texas markets. The company has reported strong leasing activity, high tenant retention, and successful repositioning of assets to meet evolving market demands—including an increased focus on medical and high-tech tenants. “This renewal with BD Energy Systems reflects the overall strength and momentum of the Hartman portfolio,” said Margaret Hartman, Chief Operating Officer of Hartman Properties. “As we continue to grow across key Texas markets, long-term tenant commitments like this speak to the quality of our assets, the consistency of our service, and our proven ability to deliver spaces that support our tenants’ success year after year.” With BD Energy Systems’ recommitment, Hartman continues to build upon its mission to provide exceptional real estate solutions in strategically located, high-quality office, retail, and industrial properties. About Hartman Properties Hartman Properties is a premier commercial real estate investment company headquartered in Houston, Texas. With more than 60 commercial properties across major Texas cities, Hartman delivers value-driven leasing, superior asset management, and unwavering dedication to tenants. Learn more at www.hartman-properties.com..

Hartman Properties Secures Major Lease Renewal with BD Energy Systems Read More »