Most commercial real estate disputes start with a document someone signed too quickly. A purchase agreement with a vague inspection period. A lease that makes the tenant responsible for a new roof. A personal guarantee nobody read closely. Getting legal advice before you sign usually costs far less than fixing the problem later.
At the Law Offices of Mark Murad, we help business owners, landlords, tenants and investors in Pasadena, Glendale, Los Angeles and Ontario handle commercial property transactions the right way from the start.
Commercial Purchases and Sales
Whether you are buying your first business premises or selling an investment building, we can:
- Draft and negotiate letters of intent and purchase agreements
- Set up clear due diligence periods and conditions
- Review title reports, surveys, easements and zoning
- Review existing tenant leases and estoppel certificates
- Work with your broker, lender and escrow to close on time
- Advise on how to hold the property, such as through an LLC
Commercial Leases
A commercial lease can run for many years and include obligations worth far more than the rent. We draft and review leases for both landlords and tenants, covering:
- Rent, increases and additional rent such as CAM charges
- Repair and maintenance responsibilities
- Permitted use and exclusive use rights
- Tenant improvements and who pays for them
- Assignment, subletting and sale of the business
- Personal guarantees and security deposits
- Default, cure periods and termination rights
Due Diligence: What Buyers Should Not Skip
- Title review for liens, easements and restrictions.
- Zoning and permitted use for your plans.
- Physical inspection and, for some properties, an environmental report.
- Review of existing leases and income.
- Confirmation of permits for past work on the building.
Missing any of these can turn a good deal into a costly one.
When a Deal Goes Wrong
If a transaction falls apart or a lease turns into a dispute, our commercial real estate litigation team can step in. Because we handle both transactions and litigation, we draft documents with a clear view of where disputes usually start.
Who We Represent
- Business owners buying or leasing their premises
- Landlords and property owners
- Real estate investors and partnerships
- Family businesses and closely held companies
Learn more about our business and real estate transactions practice and our wider real estate litigation and transaction work.
Serving the San Gabriel Valley and Greater Los Angeles
Our main office is in Pasadena, with offices in Glendale and Los Angeles. We work with clients across the region.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a lawyer if I already have a broker?
A broker helps you find the property and negotiate business terms. A lawyer protects your legal position in the contract. Most experienced buyers use both.
Can you review a lease the landlord already drafted?
Yes. Most of our lease work involves reviewing and negotiating a landlord’s standard form.
How much does a lease review cost?
It depends on the length and complexity of the lease. We will give you a clear estimate before starting.
Get Advice Before You Sign
Contact the Law Offices of Mark Murad to schedule a consultation about your commercial purchase, sale or lease. See all our practice areas.
This article is general information, not legal advice. Reading it does not create an attorney client relationship.