How much can you expect to pay for an executive suite? One that includes your own office, furnished and equipped with phone lines and internet connection? One that includes a receptionist who meet and greet your clients, and answer the phone in your company name? One with a fully furnished conference rooms at your disposal? How about beverage service, light secretary duties, carwash and parking? If you lease a conventional office space and add all the amenities above, you may end up paying much more than you would like.

In Southern California, the average cost for a one or two-man office is $1000. Of course, there are fully serviced space for less, and if you work with a good consultant, he/she will do all the homework for you. This will get you the best space for the lowest price. The range for a 1-2 man executive office is $500-$2500.

Office consultants, aka brokers, work with at least a dozen office providers in any given area. A great consultant knows his office provider and has good working relationship with the office providers. A great consultant also knows the availabilities and prices of different offices in the area. More importantly, a great consultant follow up with his clients with price quotes, appointments, and contract negotiations for his clients.