Signing a commercial lease is a major commitment for an independent business, even when the storefront seems like a perfect fit.

Owners in Ballard, Greenwood and Lake City should examine the real cost of a space before making promises they cannot easily reverse.

The Seattle Office of Economic Development offers a Commercial Space Consulting Program for eligible for-profit businesses based in Seattle.

The city describes up to ten hours of no-cost consulting on issues that can include landlord advocacy and development budgets.

Published program information also lists kitchen operations among possible consulting areas.

That support can matter for a small retailer, café or service provider planning to open or expand.

A promising rent quote may not account for renovation work, accessibility needs, utilities or required permits.

Before contacting a landlord, list the activities that must happen in the space and the equipment they require.

Ask which improvements are the tenant's responsibility and which are the property owner's.

Review whether the location can legally accommodate the intended use.

The city prioritizes applicants evaluating an identified space, negotiating with a landlord or preparing tenant improvements after signing a lease.

Eligibility conditions include a Seattle business license, no more than two locations, no more than fifty full-time-equivalent employees and annual revenue at or below the program's stated limit.

Business owners should review the current application page for complete criteria and availability.

Ten free consulting hours cannot eliminate every lease risk or replace qualified legal advice.

They may, however, help an owner identify questions before spending money on construction or deposits.

Bring a draft lease, basic floor plan, proposed budget and a list of uncertainties to the initial conversation when appropriate.

Ask what work needs professional permits and what costs could change after inspections.

For a Wallingford shop owner, the right question may be whether the business can survive slower months at the proposed rent.

Compare realistic sales projections with all fixed monthly costs, including insurance, payroll and maintenance.

Consider the cash needed for opening delays as well as the first month's rent.

The goal is not simply to occupy a storefront; it is to keep the business viable after the doors open.

The city's Commercial Space Consulting Program page explains how eligible businesses can request assistance.