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Finding the right office starts before you ever step inside a building. Use this checklist to make your office search more focused, efficient and productive. Whether you’re relocating, expanding or simply realizing your current office no longer fits your business, searching for office space can quickly become overwhelming. There are countless properties, locations, floor plans and lease options to consider. And while touring properties is an important part of the process, the most successful office searches start with a little preparation. Before you schedule your first tour, take the time to answer these 10 questions. 1. How Much Space Do You Actually Need? Start with your current headcount, but don’t stop there. Consider how many employees regularly work in the office, how many work remotely, and whether you expect your team to grow during the next few years. Think beyond individual workstations, too. Do you need: The goal isn’t to find the largest office you can afford. It’s to find a space that works for the way your business operates today while giving you reasonable room to grow. 2. Where Should Your Office Be Located? Location is about much more than an address. Think about where your employees live, where your clients are located and how easily people can get to your office. For businesses in Houston and San Antonio, convenient access to major highways can be especially important. A location that is easy for employees to reach can make a meaningful difference in the daily experience of your team. Consider: The best location is the one that makes sense for the people who use your office most. 3. What’s Your Realistic Budget? Before you start touring, establish a budget, but make sure you understand what that budget actually includes. The advertised rental rate is only one part of the cost of occupying office space. Depending on the property and lease structure, you may also need to account for operating expenses, utilities, parking, tenant improvements, furniture, moving costs and other expenses. Understanding your total occupancy budget early will make it much easier to compare properties accurately. 4. When Does Your Current Lease End? This is one of the most important questions to answer before beginning your search. Don’t wait until your lease is about to expire to start looking. Give yourself enough time to: Starting early gives you more choices and puts you in a stronger position throughout the process. 5. What Does Your Team Actually Need? Your office should support how your employees work, not simply provide desks. Think about how your team uses the office on a typical day. Do employees need quiet spaces for focused work? Conference rooms for meetings? Areas for collaboration? A comfortable place to take a break? If your workplace model has changed in recent years, your office requirements may have changed with it. Before touring, identify the features that are must-haves, nice-to-haves and not necessary. That simple exercise can save a lot of time. 6. What Do Your Clients Expect? Your office is also part of your customer experience. If clients regularly visit your office, consider what impression the property and surrounding area create. Ask yourself: You don’t necessarily need the most expensive building to create a professional client experience. A well-maintained office in a convenient location can accomplish a great deal. 7. How Important Are Building Amenities? Amenities can make an office more convenient and enjoyable, but they shouldn’t become a checklist of things you don’t actually need. Consider which amenities would genuinely benefit your employees and clients. Depending on the property, these might include: Prioritize the amenities your team will actually use. 8. Who Will Manage the Property? This is easy to overlook when you’re focused on the space itself. But once you move in, your relationship with the property management team can have a significant impact on your experience. Ask: A great office isn’t just about what you see during a tour. It’s also about how the property is operated after you sign the lease. 9. What Will You Need to Change? Once you find a property you like, think about what needs to happen before you can move in. Will the space need: Understanding these requirements early can help you evaluate properties more realistically and avoid surprises later in the process. 10. What Do You Want Your Office to Look Like Three Years From Now? This may be the most important question on the list. An office lease is a long-term commitment. Your business shouldn’t choose space based solely on what it needs today. Think about where you expect your company to be several years from now. Are you hiring? Expanding into new markets? Bringing more employees back into the office? Changing how your team works? Your future plans should influence the size, layout, location and flexibility of the space you choose. Turn Your Checklist Into a Shortlist Once you’ve answered these questions, you should have a much clearer picture of what you’re looking for. Create three categories: Must-HavesThe things your office absolutely needs. Nice-to-HavesFeatures that would improve the workplace but aren’t deal breakers. Deal BreakersThings that would immediately eliminate a property from consideration. Then use your list consistently when you tour. Instead of asking, “Do I like this office?”, ask, “Does this office meet the needs we identified?” That shift can make your search much more productive. The Right Office Is About More Than Square Feet The best office space isn’t necessarily the biggest, newest or most expensive option. It’s the space that works for your employees, your clients, your budget and your business goals. Whether you’re searching for office space in Houston, San Antonio or another Texas market, taking the time to define your needs before you start touring can help you make a more confident decision. Ready to start your search? Hartman Properties offers office space in established Houston and San Antonio locations, with professional property management and amenities designed to support today’s businesses. Explore available office space or contact Hartman Properties at 713-400-1000 to find a space that works for

The right office location isn’t about choosing the “best” Texas market. It’s about choosing the market that best fits the way your business works. For Texas businesses looking for office space, Houston and San Antonio both offer compelling opportunities. But they are very different markets, and the right choice depends on more than rental rates or the size of the available space. For many small and mid-sized businesses, the decision also isn’t about choosing between downtown high-rises. Class B office properties in established business corridors and suburban locations can offer the professional environment, accessibility, amenities and value that businesses actually need, while not without paying for space or features they don’t. So, should your next office be in Houston or San Antonio? The answer depends on your business. Start With Your Business, Not the Building It can be tempting to begin an office search by looking at available properties. A better approach is to first understand what your business needs from its location. Consider: Once you know the answers, Houston and San Antonio become much easier to compare. Houston: More Choices Across a Large, Diverse Market Houston offers businesses an enormous range of office locations, from established suburban business corridors to major employment centers throughout the metropolitan area. For companies that want access to a large and diverse workforce, clients across multiple parts of the region, or a particular business ecosystem, Houston can offer significant flexibility. But Houston’s size is also something businesses need to consider. Choosing the right submarket can make a major difference in the day-to-day experience of an office. A location that looks attractive on a map may not be convenient for employees or clients coming from the other side of the metro area. That’s why, for a Houston office search, the question isn’t simply “Where in Houston?” It’s “Where in Houston makes the most sense for our people and our business?” Class B space can be particularly attractive for businesses that want to prioritize location, functionality and value. This can give businesses an opportunity to put their office budget toward the things that matter most to them. San Antonio: Accessibility, Growth and Value San Antonio offers a different kind of opportunity. The market is more compact than Houston, and businesses can find office locations throughout established commercial corridors that provide convenient access to employees, clients and major transportation routes. For businesses that don’t need a downtown address, suburban and non-CBD office locations can provide a strong combination of accessibility and value. San Antonio’s office market also demonstrates why businesses shouldn’t assume that the most expensive space is automatically the best space. In Q2 2026, Class B properties had a lower vacancy rate than Class A properties across the overall San Antonio market—15.6% compared with 18.5%. For a growing business, professional services firm or established company looking to make its office dollars work harder, that can make Class B an attractive option. Houston vs. San Antonio: What Matters Most? Rather than asking which market is better, consider which one aligns with your priorities. If workforce access is your biggest consideration Houston’s size can be an advantage if your employees are distributed across a broad area and you need to choose a location near a particular concentration of workers. San Antonio’s more compact geography may appeal to businesses that want to serve a concentrated local workforce without navigating the scale of a market like Houston. If client accessibility is critical Think about where your clients actually are. A prestigious address isn’t necessarily the most convenient address. For businesses that rely on frequent client meetings, a well-located office with convenient highway access and parking may be more valuable than a downtown location. If value is a priority Class B office space can provide an opportunity to balance cost with the professional environment your business needs. The goal isn’t simply to find the lowest rental rate. It’s to find the best overall value, which is a property that gives you the location, space, amenities and service that support your business without paying for things you don’t need. If you’re planning for growth Don’t choose an office based solely on today’s headcount. Think about where your company expects to be two, three or five years from now. You may need additional offices, more conference space, a different layout or simply more flexibility. The right property should be able to support your business as it changes. Don’t Overlook What Comes With the Building Two properties with similar rental rates can offer very different experiences. When comparing office space, look beyond the square footage and ask: These factors can have a much greater impact on your day-to-day experience than whether an office is technically Class A or Class B. For many businesses, a well-maintained Class B property in the right location can be a better fit than a more expensive Class A building in the wrong one. Houston or San Antonio? There Isn’t One Right Answer. Houston and San Antonio are both strong Texas markets. The right choice comes down to what your business needs from its office. If Houston puts you closer to your employees, clients and business opportunities, Houston may be the right choice. If San Antonio offers the accessibility, workforce and value that better align with your business, it may be the better fit. And within either market, the right submarket and the right property can be just as important as the city itself. The best office isn’t necessarily in the biggest market, the most prestigious building or the most expensive location. It’s the one that works best for your business. Ready to Find the Right Office? Hartman Properties offers Class B office space in established Houston and San Antonio locations, with a focus on providing businesses with professional, well-maintained properties and responsive property management. Whether you’re relocating, expanding or simply reconsidering your current space, start by identifying what your business actually needs, and then find the property that delivers it. Explore available office space in Houston and San Antonio, or contact Hartman Properties at

The market shift nobody’s talking about and what it means for your next lease If you follow commercial real estate headlines, you’d think the Texas office market is in crisis. Vacancy rates are climbing in downtown towers. Class A landlords are offering record concessions. Remote work has “killed the office.” Except that’s not the whole story. While Class A properties in major business districts are adjusting to a new reality, Class B office buildings, especially in suburban markets, are holding steady. In many cases, they’re thriving. At Hartman Properties, we manage one of Texas’s largest privately held Class B portfolios. We’re not seeing a crisis. We’re seeing a market correction that’s been a long time coming and it’s working in favor of smart tenants. The Flight to Value Is Real Let’s talk about what’s actually happening in the market. For years, Class A office space was the default choice for any company that could afford it. High-rise views, marble lobbies, premium finishes, and it signaled success, even if the rent strained the budget. But post-2020, something shifted. Hybrid work became permanent. Companies realized they didn’t need as much space. CFOs started asking harder questions about real estate costs. And suddenly, the calculus changed. Class B office properties offer something Class A towers can’t: value without compromise. You still get professional-grade space, modern amenities, and well-maintained buildings. But you’re paying 30-40% less per square foot. For a 10,000-square-foot office, that difference could be $5,000-7,000 per month. That is real money that goes back into hiring, technology, or growth. Across Houston, Dallas, Austin, and San Antonio, we’re seeing businesses of all sizes make this shift: They’re not “settling” for Class B. They’re choosing it because it makes better business sense. The Suburban Advantage Here’s another trend that’s not going away: people want to work closer to where they live. For decades, the career playbook was simple: move downtown, fight traffic, pay for parking, repeat. But hybrid work changed the equation. If your team is only in the office 2-3 days a week, why should the office be 45 minutes away? Suburban markets across Texas are seeing steady absorption for exactly this reason. These aren’t tertiary markets. They’re established submarkets with infrastructure, amenities, and the kind of quality of life that matters when you’re trying to attract and retain talent. And Class B office buildings in these areas? They’re exactly what tenants are looking for, which is being accessible, affordable, and professional. What the Numbers Actually Say Let’s cut through the noise and look at the data. Class A vacancy rates in major Texas metros are hovering around 20-25%. Some downtown towers are offering 6-12 months of free rent just to fill space. Landlords are negotiating from a position of weakness. Class B vacancy rates have stabilized in the 12-18% range, healthy enough to give tenants options, but tight enough that quality buildings aren’t sitting empty. Rental rates for Class B space have remained relatively flat, which in an inflationary environment is actually a win for tenants. You’re getting predictable costs in an unpredictable economy. And here’s the kicker: Texas is still growing. Population is up. Jobs are up. Companies are relocating here from higher-cost states. That sustained demand isn’t going to Class A towers, it’s flowing into practical, well-located Class B office properties. What This Means for Your Business If you’re renewing a lease or looking for new space, this market is working in your favor if you know where to look. Class B office doesn’t mean outdated or poorly maintained. It means: The companies making smart real estate decisions right now aren’t chasing prestige, but they’re chasing value, flexibility, and common sense. Why Hartman Properties Gets It We’ve been in the Class B office game for decades, and we’re not going anywhere. While other landlords chase the next big development or try to retrofit aging Class A towers, we’re focused on what actually matters: maintaining great buildings, responding to tenant needs, and providing space that works for how businesses operate today. Our portfolio spans the best suburban and secondary markets across Texas. We’re not trying to be everything to everyone, but we’re focused on being the best option for businesses that value quality, service, and smart financial decisions. The Bottom Line The Texas office market isn’t dying, but it’s evolving. And the evolution is favoring tenants who are willing to think beyond the traditional playbook. Class B properties aren’t the “budget option” anymore. They’re the smart option. And if you’re planning your next move, this is the market you want to be in. Looking for the right space in Houston, Dallas, Austin, or San Antonio? Explore Hartman’s available offices and see why so many Texas businesses are making the move to Class B office space. Let’s find the space that works for how you actually work.

The way people work has changed, but the need for a professional business environment hasn’t. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, consultant, remote professional, or growing company, having the right workspace can directly impact productivity, credibility, and business growth. That’s where BIZSUITES executive suites by Hartman come in. Designed specifically for small businesses and professionals, BIZSUITES executive suites offer flexible, move-in-ready office space without the expense and commitment of a traditional office lease.  A Professional Image That Builds Trust First impressions matter. Meeting clients at a coffee shop or conducting important calls from a spare bedroom can limit how your business is perceived. A professional office creates confidence and reinforces your brand. With BIZSUITES executive suites, businesses benefit from: These features help create a polished experience for both clients and employees.  Escape the Distractions of Working From Home While remote work offers flexibility, it often comes with interruptions, blurred boundaries, and reduced productivity. A dedicated office provides: BIZSUITES executive suites was created to help professionals move beyond the challenges of working from home while maintaining the flexibility modern businesses need.  Flexible Space That Grows With Your Business Many businesses don’t need thousands of square feet or a long-term lease commitment. They need a professional workspace that can adapt as they grow. BIZSUITES executive suites offers: Whether you’re launching a startup, expanding your team, or establishing a new market presence, BIZSUITES provides the flexibility to grow at your own pace.  All-Inclusive Amenities That Simplify Business Operations One of the biggest advantages of BIZSUITES executive suites is that many of the essentials are already included. Depending on the location, tenants may enjoy: Instead of managing office logistics, business owners can focus on serving clients and growing their companies.  Built for Entrepreneurs and Small Businesses BIZSUITES was created with entrepreneurs, startups, consultants, and small business owners in mind. The concept is designed to provide an affordable and professional office solution for businesses that need more than a coworking space but less than a traditional office lease.  The result is a workspace that combines professionalism, convenience, and flexibility—all in one package. Find a BIZSUITES Location Hartman Properties currently offers BIZSUITES locations within several premier office properties, including: These locations provide convenient access to major business corridors while delivering the professional environment growing companies need.  Learn More About BIZSUITES Explore available office suites, amenities, and locations: BIZSUITES by Hartman Whether you’re ready to leave the home office behind, need a professional place to meet clients, or want a flexible workspace that can grow alongside your business, BIZSUITES offers a practical solution designed for today’s entrepreneurs and business leaders.

At Hartman, we believe work is more than a job and buildings are more than walls. For us, commercial real estate is a calling to create environments where people, businesses, and communities can thrive. We call it a purpose driven workplace, and it is the foundation of how we lead, build, and serve. In an industry that often focuses on square footage and specifications, we focus on something deeper: people. Building More Than Offices When a tenant signs a lease, they are not just looking for a space. They are looking for a partner in their success. They need a reliable landlord, a clean and safe environment, and a place that reflects their values. We meet those needs with integrity, but we also go further. Every Hartman property is managed with intention. From day one, we invest in relationships with tenants, asking what matters most to their teams. Whether it is improving shared spaces, organizing tenant events, or providing extra touches of hospitality, we believe small actions build strong communities. Leading with Faith and Stewardship Our team operates with a deep sense of stewardship. We view every building, every employee, and every tenant as a trust—something we are called to manage with care, humility, and wisdom. That perspective shapes how we lead. We teach our teams that excellence is a form of worship and that how we treat people reflects who we are. That means being present, being responsive, and being accountable every day. It means showing up for others even when it is inconvenient. It means doing the right thing when no one is watching. Investing in People, Not Just Properties A purpose driven workplace does not happen by accident. It is built by leaders who believe that people are the true asset. We invest in our team’s growth, in their faith, and in their future. Our internal leadership development programs and weekly Bible studies are not side projects. They are part of our culture. When our employees thrive, our tenants feel it. When our tenants thrive, our buildings succeed. That is the long term view we have taken for over 40 years, and it is why we continue to grow while staying grounded. Creating Spaces That Uplift Our goal is simple. We want every tenant who walks into a Hartman building to feel the difference. Not just in the maintenance or the customer service, but in the atmosphere. We want our properties to be spaces where In a world that increasingly separates profit from purpose, we believe the two belong together. At Hartman, commercial real estate is not just about assets. It is about people. And when people feel seen, supported, and inspired, real growth happens. We are proud to create more than spaces. We create purpose driven workplaces where businesses do more than succeed—they flourish. If that resonates with you, we invite you to experience the Hartman difference.

Moving into a new office is an exciting milestone. It signals growth, opportunity, and a fresh start for your business. But between coordinating movers, setting up technology, and ensuring your team is productive from day one, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. That’s where having a clear office move-in checklist comes in. At Hartman, we’ve helped thousands of tenants transition into new spaces smoothly. This 30-day office move-in checklist will keep you organized and help you settle in with confidence. Week 1: Essential Setup Your first week is all about making the space operational so work can begin right away. The property management team will be vital in working through most of these essentials to setup your office. Week 2: Tech & Infrastructure Now that the basics are in place, focus on your technology and office systems. Week 3: Branding & Comfort Your office should reflect your company culture and make employees feel at home. Week 4: Optimize & Launch By the final week, you should be ready to put the finishing touches on your move. Your New Office, Made Easy with Hartman A successful office move starts with the right space and the right property partner and we hope this office move-in checklist helps make it easier. At Hartman, we offer professionally managed, move-in-ready commercial office spaces across Texas, with flexible leasing and dedicated property management to support your success from day one. Ready to find your perfect office?Contact Hartman today to schedule a tour and see how we make moving in easier for growing businesses like yours.

At Hartman, we do not outsource property management. We manage our buildings with an experienced in-house property management team that understands our properties inside and out, and more importantly, puts tenant satisfaction first. When searching for commercial real estate, most tenants focus on square footage, location, and lease terms. But there is one factor that often gets overlooked and it can make or break your day-to-day experience: in-house property management. Here is why that matters. 1. Faster Response Times and Fewer Headaches When property management is handled in-house, there is no middleman. That means faster response times for maintenance requests, better communication, and real-time updates. At Hartman, our on-site and regional property teams are empowered to take action quickly, often resolving issues the same day. Your business should not have to wait to get back to work. 2. Consistent Service Across Every Building With third-party managers, service can be hit or miss. In contrast, Hartman’s in-house team follows a consistent standard of excellence across our entire portfolio. We train every team member in our Hartman Standard of Performance, ensuring every tenant, whether in Houston, Dallas, or San Antonio, receives the same high level of care. 3. Proactive Building Maintenance Our team is not just reactive; they are proactive. Because we manage our own buildings, we know them inside and out. We anticipate needs before they become problems, extending the life of building systems and minimizing downtime for our tenants. Regular HVAC checkups, preventative plumbing maintenance, and up-to-date safety inspections are all part of the Hartman approach. 4. Direct Communication with Decision Makers When you lease from Hartman, you are not dealing with a faceless property management firm. You are working directly with the owners and operators of the building. This creates a level of accountability you will not find elsewhere. If you have a concern, you can pick up the phone and talk to someone empowered to fix it. 5. Better Building Communities In-house management teams help create stronger tenant communities. Our property managers often organize networking events, tenant appreciation days, and seasonal celebrations that build connections among tenants. It is all part of our mission to create exceptional work environments, not just buildings. Experience the Hartman Difference Choosing a landlord with in-house property management is not just a nice-to-have. It is a strategic advantage. It means fewer surprises, more support, and a landlord who is as invested in your success as you are. Ready to find a space where you can thrive? Contact Hartman today to schedule a tour or speak with a leasing agent.

If you’re looking for commercial space for your business, you’ve probably come across terms like Class A, Class B,and Class C buildings. While these labels may be confusing, they can actually tell you a lot about what to expect. They can give you information from the look and feel of the property to the type of lease and monthly rent. Here’s a breakdown to help you choose the right fit for your business needs and budget. Class A: High-End, High-Visibility What It Means:Class A properties are top-tier spaces. Think sleek lobbies, modern design, energy-efficient systems, and a location in a major business or retail hub. These buildings tend to attract big-name tenants and national brands but also very large price tags. What You Can Expect: Is It Right for You?Class A is a great fit if image, amenities, or client-facing presence are top priorities—especially for law firms, medical practices, or corporate offices. Class B: Practical and Professional What It Means:Class B buildings are a step below Class A in terms of age, design, or finishes, but they remain highly functional and professional. Typically located in established business districts with strong accessibility, these buildings may be a bit older. However, landlords often enhance their appeal with attractive amenities and attentive property management, making them a solid choice for many tenants. What You Can Expect: Is It Right for You?If you’re looking for a balance between value and professionalism, Class B space can be ideal, especially for growing businesses that want room to expand without overpaying. Class C: Budget-Friendly and Flexible What It Means:Class C buildings are typically older and located in less central areas. They may need cosmetic updates, but they often offer the most affordable leasing options. What You Can Expect: Is It Right for You?For warehouse users, small retailers, creative businesses, or startups watching every dollar, Class C can be a smart entry point. You just need to be sure to budget for any build-out you may need. Why It Matters to You Choosing the right property class isn’t just about looks or price but it can affect: Why Hartman is the Smart Choice for Your Commercial Space With more than 40 years of experience owning and operating commercial real estate in Texas, Hartman specializes in high-quality, thoughtfully managed Class B properties that deliver value without compromise. Our portfolio includes office, retail, and flex spaces designed to support growing businesses with the right mix of professionalism, flexibility, and affordability. When you lease with Hartman, you get: Whether you’re opening your first location, upgrading from a co-working space, or looking to right-size your footprint, Hartman provides a streamlined leasing process and spaces that position your business for success — without the sky-high price tag of Class A. Ready to take the next step? Browse our available spaces online or connect with our leasing team today. We’ll help you tour, compare, and select the right building so you can focus on what matters most — growing your business.

In one of the nation’s fastest-growing business hubs, leasing office space in Houston can be a smart move for expanding companies. However, navigating the commercial real estate landscape without the right information can lead to costly mistakes. Here we will cover five common mistakes when leasing office space and offer useful Houston commercial real estate tips to help you make a more strategic decision for your business. 1. Not Factoring in Commute and Location Accessibility when Leasing Office Space Mistake: Leasing office space location without considering employee commute times, client access, and public transportation options. Tip: Houston’s traffic can be unpredictable, so location matters more than you might think. Prioritize office spaces near major highways or public transit routes that are convenient for both your team and your clients. Poll your current employees to identify a centralized location that works for the majority. Depending on your business, a suburban office may actually be more practical than a downtown one. And don’t forget your customers — if they visit your office, accessibility and ease of parking should be top considerations. Houston is part of a larger, thriving Texas office market that continues to show strength and adaptability. For a broader look at why Texas remains a resilient and attractive place for businesses, check out this insight from our CEO, Al Hartman: Texas Office Market: Resilient, Diverse, and Poised for Growth. 2. Ignoring Hidden Costs in the Lease Mistake: Focusing only on base rent and overlooking common area maintenance (CAM) fees, utilities, insurance, and escalation clauses. Tip: Always request a full breakdown of all potential costs associated with the lease and clarify what’s included versus what’s considered additional. Depending on the lease structure—such as a triple net (NNN) lease—you may be responsible for extra expenses beyond base rent. These commonly include property taxes, insurance, maintenance, utilities, and janitorial services. These costs can fluctuate year to year, depending on service rates and market conditions. Understanding the total financial commitment upfront will help you avoid surprises and budget more accurately. 3. Overestimating Your Space Needs Mistake: Leasing more space than you actually need “just in case.” Tip: Take time to evaluate both your current team size and projected staffing plans for the near future. Leasing too much space can strain your budget, while leasing too little can limit your growth. To strike the right balance, assess how your business will operate day-to-day — including whether you’ll have remote or hybrid employees, shared desks, or private offices. Need help estimating your office space needs? Use our space planning tool to calculate the right amount of square footage for your business: How Much Office Space Do You Need? 4. Failing to Negotiate Lease Terms Mistake: Some tenants assume lease terms are set in stone and accept agreements “as-is” without asking questions or exploring alternatives. Tip: Don’t hesitate to have a conversation about your specific needs. Many lease terms — such as improvement allowances, rent abatement periods, and lease duration — can be tailored to better support your business. As your landlord, our goal is to create a lease structure that works for both parties and supports long-term success. We’re here to work with you, not against you. By understanding your goals and staying informed on current Houston commercial real estate trends, we can help structure a lease that meets your needs today and into the future. 5. Delaying the Search Until the Last Minute Mistake: Waiting too long to start looking for office space can lead to rushed decisions, limited options, and missed opportunities. Tip: Begin your search at least 6–12 months before your ideal move-in date — especially in a competitive market like Houston. This gives you time to explore the best properties, negotiate favorable terms, and plan for any build-out or customization needs. As a landlord, we’re here to help guide you through the process, answer questions early, and ensure the space you choose is a strong fit for your business now and in the future. Avoiding these five lease office space mistakes can save you time, money, and stress. Whether you’re launching a new business or relocating within Houston, following smart commercial real estate tips will ensure your lease aligns with your goals — not just today, but in the years ahead. Looking for the right office space in Houston? Our team at Hartman is here to help you find a space that fits your business needs and supports your long-term success. Connect with us today to speak with a local expert and explore available options.

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.