Commercial build out / improvements cost estimate (tenant, square foot, agent, insurance)

[KatyTigers]

Hi all, first time posting here.

Can anyone tell me the best way or best person to speak with in estimating the cost of a commercial build out?

We are looking at improving and leasing a 6,000 sqfoot gray shell space (unfinished interior) in a strip center. We have a good idea on the floor plan and the types of materials/finishes we want.

What little I have found suggests around $45 to $50 per square foot, but of course that depends on materials and cost of labor (I am in the West Houston area).

Any help pointing me in the right direction would be greatly appreciated.

[MrRational]

Originally Posted by KatyTigers

We are looking at improving and leasing a 6,000 sq foot gray shell space (unfinished interior)
in a strip center. We have a good idea on the floor plan and the types of materials/finishes we want.

Can anyone tell me the best way or best person to speak with in estimating the cost of a commercial build out?

Start with the qualified and experienced leasing agent who KNOWS the facility and market.

Often in a commercial space there are OTHER factors that come into play that you might never think of until it's too late.
Things like time of day access in/through common areas, more strict insurance and bonding requirements for the contractors,
specific design & construction details the owner requires be included (so that WHEN you go broke and leave the next tenant
doesn't have to undo something) ... it goes on.

[Sherifftruman]

Electrical, mechanical and plumbing are going to be your major cost drivers unless you have some super high end finishes. Since terminology varies a bit from place to place, it's going to be hard to get great advice here. I've never heard the term gray shell, so I'm not sure what you'll need. If the HVAC unit is there and a bathroom plumbed in at the back of the bay and the electrical service and main panel are in, that's going to help your cost out quite a bit. Where I'm from if none of that was there we would call it a cold dark shell. Is there a slab? What kind of improvements? Straight retail with one cash wrap up front or a restaurant?

It is best to start with the leasing agent as mentioned and then talk to a couple of general contractors in your area.