Commercial Lease Review & Negotiation Services
The most critical phase of any commercial tenancy happens before the keys are handed over.
Paul H. Appel brings over four decades of legal experience in real estate law, giving business owners the insight needed to identify hidden liabilities before committing to a lease. Whether you are opening a retail storefront in Red Bank, securing warehouse space in Monroe Township, or renewing an office lease, we ensure every clause aligns with your profit margins and operational goals.
Why "Standard" Leases Are Dangerous
Commercial leases are not consumer contracts; they are complex financial instruments often drafted heavily in favor of the property owner. Without a strategic legal review, commercial tenants risk agreeing to:
- ⚠ Uncapped CAM Charges: Open-ended maintenance fees that can double your monthly overhead.
- ⚠ Personal Guarantees: Clauses that put your personal home and assets at risk if the business fails.
- ⚠ Strict Use Clauses: Zoning restrictions that prevent you from expanding your service offerings later.
- ⚠ Relocation Clauses: Rights allowing the landlord to move your store to a less desirable part of the mall.
Our Lease Negotiation Process
1. Letter of Intent (LOI) Strategy
Negotiation starts before the lease is written. We advise on the LOI to lock in key business terms—like Rent Abatement and Tenant Improvement (TI) Allowances—before the landlord's attorneys get involved.
2. Deep-Dive Legal Review
We dissect the agreement to identify "pass-through" expenses and unfavorable renewal terms. We ensure the language protects your exit strategy, including assignment and subletting rights.
3. Aggressive Negotiation
We act as your buffer and advocate. We push back on aggressive holdover penalties and insurance requirements, ensuring a fair balance between the Commercial Lessor and your business.
4. Landlord Representation
For property owners, we draft robust lease templates that protect your asset value, ensure specific maintenance obligations, and provide clear remedies for non-monetary defaults.
Serving Commercial Hubs Across New Jersey
Zoning laws and commercial rental markets vary by township. We provide localized counsel for businesses operating in major commercial corridors.
FAQs: Commercial Lease Review
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Need Legal Help? Contact The Law Offices of Paul H. Appel Today.
- 11 Crestwood Drive Freehold, NJ 07728
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Draft and review agreements for your business locations, addressing rent, zoning, and usage rights for commercial properties.
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Strategic negotiation of lease terms to secure favorable CAM charges, renewal options, and minimize liabilities for your business.
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