When you’re researching office space for your company, it can be difficult to narrow down what features you’re looking for. There are so many types of layouts and sizes that it can be overwhelming. To help you narrow the options, here are some things to think about as you conduct your research.

1. The Setup

The perfect space is going to look different for every business. The general layout and features of the one you choose should be conducive to your industry and the needs of your organization, rather than trying to keep up with the current trends. If your team focuses on creative projects that take a lot of collaboration, you might lean more toward an open concept. If your employees handle a lot of sensitive data and have regular private meetings, investing in a space with a larger number of closed offices may be a better plan.

2. The Space

It’s important to know that your new office space will be able to comfortably handle all of your employees and clients. Before you begin your research, calculate how much space each cubicle, office, break room and work area will need, as well as reception and waiting spaces. If you need conference space that will fit the entire staff, make sure that you have a room large enough. Also remember that you’re probably going to be signing a lease for this space for a few years, so make sure you leave room for expanding your workforce.

3. The Cost

A fast way to figure out what you really need in an office versus what you want is to find out how much it costs per square foot. If you find a location that you really like, find this out and then use that to determine if you can afford the amount of space you’d need to make it a good investment. Now isn’t the time to be cheap, though. It’s a much better idea to keep your employees happy and allow for room to grow than to have to try to move again and get out of your lease early, which can be a costly endeavor.

Moving to a new office space can be exciting, but it’s also a lot of pressure if you’re the one who is choosing where to set up shop for the foreseeable future. If you are in this position, investing time in good research will save you both money and effort down the road.