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How do I pick a location for my business?
Commercial real estate brokers are fond of saying that the three most
important factors in establishing a business are location, location and
location. While true for some businesses, for others, locating in a popular,
high-cost area may be a mistake. To make sure your space will suit the
financial and physical needs of your business, ask yourself these questions:
- Is location important for the success of your business?
- What type of location is best for your business?
- How much rent can you afford?
- Is your proposed location appropriate for what you plan to do there?
How do I determine if the location I want is properly zoned for my
business?
First, you'll need to check your local zoning ordinances. These laws
allow certain types of businesses to occupy different districts of a city or
county -- most cities have residential, commercial, industrial and mixed-use
areas. Next you'll need to find out whether any other legal restrictions
will affect your operations. For example, some cities limit the number of
certain types of business -- such as fast food restaurants or coffee bars --
in certain areas, and others require that a business provide off-street
parking, close early on week nights and keep advertising signs to a minimum.
Fortunately, many cities have business development offices that help small
business owners understand and cope with the various restrictions.
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