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Owning vs. Leasing Warehouse Space: Pros and Cons
Are you not sure whether to lease or buy a warehouse space?
With the rapid changes in technology, it’s important to understand each option’s pros and cons before making such a decision – especially when it comes to the economics.
While the traditional option for many companies is usually to lease warehouse space, times are changing and there has been an increase of interest recently in buying and managing warehouses on their own.
Whether you’re a director, realtor, property owner, manager or CEO looking for a new storage solution – this blog will be invaluable as we explore the potential benefits and downsides of both options.
A Brief Explanation of Warehouse Leasing and Ownership
As companies grow, their need for storage space increases. This is where warehouse leasing and ownership come into play.
Warehouse leasing allows businesses to rent a storage facility at a fixed rate, with a typical term of 5-10 years. On the other hand, warehouse ownership provides a long-term solution for companies that require a larger storage space, or simply looking to avoid supply shortages, as demonstrated by the Pandemic .
Pros and Cons of Owning a Warehouse
With the ever-evolving landscape of business, it’s important for companies to be innovative in their approach to warehousing solutions. By understanding the benefits and drawbacks of both leasing and ownership, you can make an informed decision that best suits your business needs.
Let’s explore the benefits and drawbacks of owning a warehouse a little deeper.
Pros
Owning a warehouse can offer businesses a number of unique benefits such as:
- Control,
- Customization,
- Investment,
- Equity,
- Tax benefits.
Having control over a warehouse allows businesses to take ownership and management decisions that are tailored specifically to their needs. By owning the warehouse, businesses can also invest in their property and build equity for it which provides them with an additional financial asset.
Control and customization, investment and equity opportunities, as well as tax benefits can make owning a warehouse an ideal option for many business owners looking to boost efficiency in their operations.
Cons
Ownership may come with some significant disadvantages:
- To begin, many warehouses require large upfront costs as they often involve expensive leases and permit fees. In addition, owning a warehouse means that you are responsible for maintaining it which can be an expensive process involving costly repairs and upkeep.
- Depending on the condition of the warehouse and the type of real estate owning a warehouse may pose some risk of depreciation in value over time. Ultimately owning a warehouse is not suitable for everyone due to these potential drawbacks.
Pros and Cons of Leasing Warehouse Space
Pros
- Leasing warehouse space can provide a number of valuable benefits for businesses looking to expand their current operations or enter into a new market.
- The flexibility leasing provides in terms of leasing lengths, locations, and sizes allows for companies to engage in dynamic strategies with minimal costs and resources. Low upfront costs remove the burden of having to make large payments at the beginning of a leasing agreement, ensuring that businesses have the capital necessary for day-to-day operations.
- Leasing warehouse space allows companies to share maintenance costs and repairs responsibly between both leasing parties, reducing overhead expenses. When leveraged properly, leasing warehouse space can be an invaluable tool to businesses seeking cost-effective solutions while increasing their presence.
Cons
Leasing warehouse space can have some drawbacks:
- When leasing, a business often lacks total control over their space. Renters may not have freedom to make significant modifications or improvements. As a result, leasing provides no equity or investment opportunity like owning the warehouse would.
- It’s important for businesses to evaluate their needs carefully before making a decision on leasing vs. buying. There should be a balance between finding an affordable, flexible solution and creating an ownership opportunity that generates return on investment for their business.
Discover Our Available Warehouse Spaces
3421 Hollis St
Oakland, CAFlexible warehouse spaces. Sizes range from 407 RSF - 18,945 RSF.
Deciding Between Ownership and Leasing
Ownership or leasing of warehouse space is an important decision for businesses. It requires examination of the business needs, financial resources, future growth and market conditions.
Ownership may provide more flexibility with regards to modifications and design but leasing is typically more economical in the short term. Before deciding between the two, business owners should compare their ability to finance ownership versus leasing costs, estimate how long they will occupy a warehouse and consider whether they need a large enough space to accommodate potential future growth.
You must look at the current market prices of leasing and owning warehousing space to make an informed decision. Leasing can be beneficial if mobility or a low-cost option is desired while ownership ensures that no restrictions on usage are imposed by landlords leasing out their space.
Conclusion
In today’s business climate, it’s more important than ever to have a reliable and affordable storage solution for your company. Whether you choose to buy or lease warehouse space, be sure to do your research and consider all of the pros and cons before making a decision.
A trusted partner like IPG can help you find the perfect solution for your business needs. Contact us today to get started!
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