Commercial Real Estate Myths

Commercial Real Estate Myth: Asking Rent Is the Rent You’ll Pay

Written by Jack Naasz | Jan 8, 2026 4:20:39 PM

The Myth

The rent listed on a commercial property is the final price.

 

Reality

In most commercial leases, asking rent is just a starting point.

 

Final lease terms are shaped by:

  • market conditions
  • vacancy levels
  • lease length
  • tenant improvements
  • concessions and incentives

Effective rent often looks very different than the headline number.

 

Why This Matters

Tenants who assume asking rent is fixed often leave value on the table.
Negotiation can materially reduce total occupancy costs — especially in tenant-favorable markets.

 

Minnesota Context

Across Minnesota, particularly in office and certain retail segments, tenants often have leverage to negotiate:

  • free rent periods
  • improvement allowances
  • flexible lease terms

Understanding this can change deal outcomes significantly.

 

Bottom Line

Asking rent sets the conversation — negotiation sets the deal.