Steve here—founder of Personal Warehouse and someone who’s spent a few decades watching the micro flex market evolve (and sometimes repeat itself).

Lately, commercial real estate has been doing what it does best: keeping everyone on their toes. The market’s doing that thing where it acts unpredictably, but if you squint hard enough, you realize it’s following the same old script.

Here’s the short version:
If you’re leasing your space, you may want to ask a few more questions.

Let’s break it down.

Lease Rates Are Climbing—Fast

Landlords are increasing rents as fast as they can —and you’re stuck with the tab. Rent hikes, ballooning triple nets… that “deal” from two years ago? Not so sweet anymore.

Lesson: Read the fine print—or better yet, be the landlord.

Micro Flex Space Is the Real Unicorn

Need 1,200 sq ft with decent power and a working roll-up door? Good luck. Developers are chasing whales while small biz owners fight over scraps.

Lesson: Scarcity’s real. Plan ahead and know your options.

Tenant Improvements = Landlord Wins

Upgraded power, new lighting, a slick office build-out… all on your dime—and you don’t get to take it with you.

Lesson: If you’re doing the heavy lifting, maybe ownership makes more sense.

Zoning Whiplash Is Real

Light industrial space near people? Good luck. Zoning maps are changing faster than your Netflix suggestions. Not all spaces are equal, and not all are for business.

Lesson: What works now might not work next year. Secure your future.

SO, WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?

Look—I’m not here to tell you to buy a Personal Warehouse (unless you want one, then by all means… 😎). But I am saying it’s time to get smart about your space.

Here’s your homework:

  • Pull your lease and read it (yes, the whole thing).
  • Map out what your space needs to do for you over the next 3–5 years.
  • Ask yourself: If my rent doubled, what would I do?

If your answer is “Panic,” it might be time for a new plan.

I’ll keep calling out what’s happening in this space—because someone’s gotta say it. If you’re thinking about your next step, whether it’s leasing smarter or planning for ownership, feel free to reach out.

Stay sharp out there.

— Steve Garrison
Founder, Personal Warehouse