A practical guide from the ground.

Mumbal's commercial real estate is some of the most premium in the country. But premium doesn't have to mean overpriced. Whether you're setting up in Lower Parel, BKC, or elsewhere in the city, there are smart, often overlooked ways to stretch your leasing budget-without compromising on quality or address.

Here's how we advise our clients to approach it

Understand the Full Cost-Not Just the Quoted Rent

The actual cost of your lease extends far beyond the per sq.ft number. Factor in:

• CAM (Common Area Maintenance)

• Electricity and air-conditioning charges

• Property tax, GST

• Parking (often quoted separately)

• Fit-out costs (especially in warm shells)

In areas like BKC and Worll, these can increase your outlay by 15-25%. Knowing this early lets you negotiate better - or walk away faster

Negotiate on Structure, Not Just Price

Landlords in premium micro-markets don't usually drop rent - but there's often flexibility elsewhere.

Ask for:

• Rent-free fit-out period (30-60 days is fair)

• Capped annual escalation (5% or lower)

• Flexible lock-in periods (especially post Year 3)

• Inclusions like AC units, ducting, or washroom completion

Room & Roof routinely negotiates these elements to unlock better value for our clients.

Serviced Office vs Traditional Lease: Know the Trade-offs

Here's how we frame it with clients:

For startups, VC offices, or flexible teams - serviced works. For established firms with a longer horizon - traditional wins on control and long-term cost.

Look Beyond the Obvious Floors & Towers

You don't always need the top floor or newest tower to make an impact. Some of the best value sits in:

• Older Grade A buildings with strong management

• Warm shells with partial fit-outs

• 0 Mid-level floors with views but lower rental slabs

• Off-market or developer-held units open to negotiation

This is where local knowledge-and discretion-make a difference.

Plan for Growth Without Overcommitting

Your space should serve you now and next. We advise clients to:

• Leave room to expand without doubling rent

• Consider hybrid layouts to optimise seat costs

• Avoid overcommitting on lease duration if the team size is fluid

• Think about access, visibility, and client-facing usability (if relevant)

  
  

Final Word

Getting a good deal isn't about getting a cheap one. It's about understanding the real numbers, the market rhythm, and where value hides.

At Room & Roof, we work closely with our clients to navigate that equation - strategically, discreetly, and always with their long-term interests in mind