How to Attract Commercial Tenants

Simple steps to fill your commercial space and keep tenants long-term

Attracting the right commercial tenants takes more than just putting up a “To Let” sign. In today’s competitive market, landlords and property owners need a clear strategy to stand out, and to keep tenants for the long term.

Whether you own a shopfront, office building, or mixed-use space, here are practical tips for attracting commercial tenants and improving retention.

1. Understand What Tenants Need

The first step to attracting commercial tenants is knowing your audience. Are you marketing to independent retailers? Flexible office users? National brands?

Each tenant type has different priorities:

Retailers may want footfall and signage visibility.
Office tenants may look for parking, connectivity, or flexible layouts.
Food and beverage operators may need kitchen-ready units and late-use permissions.

Tailor your property features and marketing messages to meet these expectations.

2. Make a Great First Impression

The external appearance of your commercial space is key.

Fresh paint and clear signage on the exterior.
Tidy and inviting entrance.
Improved lighting, fresh flooring, and modern communal areas inside.
A clean, well-maintained space overall.

Inside, even small upgrades like improved lighting, fresh flooring, or modern communal areas can make a unit feel more inviting. A clean, well-maintained space signals professionalism and care—something tenants value.

3. Price Realistically

Overpricing a commercial unit is one of the most common reasons it remains empty. Do your research and compare similar properties in your area.

Working with a commercial agent like Jacobs Steel can give you accurate, up-to-date insight into what local tenants are willing to pay, helping you price competitively without underselling your asset.

Unsure about your property’s market value? A commercial agent can provide a tailored assessment.

4. Be Flexible with Lease Terms

In a changing economy, many businesses are cautious about long-term commitments. If you can offer flexible leasing options—like shorter lease lengths, break clauses, or fit-out contributions—you may appeal to a wider pool of tenants.

This flexibility doesn’t mean compromising on returns; it means creating a structure that meets current market demand.

This helps businesses reduce upfront costs and tailor the space to their specific needs without a huge initial investment.

5. Use Strategic Marketing Channels

Marketing commercial spaces effectively means going beyond property portals. Consider:

Targeted digital campaigns (LinkedIn, local business groups)
Professional photography and floorplans
Clear signage at the property itself
Local commercial agents with a strong network (like our team at Jacobs Steel)

Don’t underestimate the power of word of mouth and local relationships when it comes to commercial tenant leads.

Networking with local business associations and participating in community events can generate valuable leads.

6. Keep Existing Tenants Happy

Attracting new tenants is important—but commercial tenant retention is just as crucial. Happy tenants are more likely to renew, recommend your property, or expand within your building.

Good communication, fair maintenance, and timely issue resolution go a long way. Regular check-ins show that you’re proactive and invested in their success.

7. Showcase the Local Area

Tenants aren’t just leasing a unit, they’re joining a local business ecosystem. Promote the benefits of the area: foot traffic, nearby transport links, local events, or regeneration projects.

In areas like Worthing, Lancing, and Shoreham, there’s strong community investment and business support, which can be a key selling point for incoming tenants.

Speak to the Experts

At Jacobs Steel Commercial, we support landlords across Sussex and the South East with sourcing quality tenants and marketing commercial spaces effectively. Our local insight and dedicated commercial team can help position your property for success—both now and for the long term.

Looking to attract commercial tenants or boost retention?
Get in touch with our team today for a free, no-obligation consultation.