Should you sign an office lease before christmas or wait until the New year?
Many companies looking for new office space face the same question every winter: is it smarter to close a deal before Christmas, or wait until January?
The office leasing market has seasonal variations that can give you both advantages and disadvantages depending on your timing. In this article, we’ll explore how the market develops towards the end of the year, and what you should consider before signing a lease agreement.
What Does the Office Market Look Like Before Christmas?
Slower activity gives you better negotiating power
November and December are often marked by slower activity in the leasing market. Many decision-makers are busy with year-end closing, budgets, and holidays. This gives you, as a tenant, a stronger position to negotiate. Landlords often want to finalize agreements before year-end and may be more open to flexible terms.
Campaigns on coworking and flexible solutions
Coworking operators and serviced offices often run campaigns at the end of the year to fill available spaces. Here you can secure discounts or shorter lease terms – perfect if you want to test a flexible solution before committing long term.
What About the Market After New Year?
Higher demand in January and February
When the calendar flips, many companies start new budgets and plans. This typically drives a noticeable increase in demand for office space in January and February. Competition for the most attractive spaces is therefore stronger.
Popular offices disappear quickly
Whether you’re looking for coworking, sublease options, or traditional offices, centrally located and cost-efficient spaces are the first to go. If you wait until after Christmas, you should have a clear plan: how many desks you need, what your budget is, and the level of standard you require. That way you can act quickly when the right office becomes available.
So, What Should You Do?
Sign an office before Christmas if:
- You already know how much space you need
- Your budget for next year is finalized
- You want to take advantage of year-end campaigns and stronger negotiation terms
Wait until after New Year if:
- You need more time to clarify your needs
- You want to explore a wider range of office options
- You are prepared for increased competition in the new year
Conclusion: Planning Is Key
Whether you sign before Christmas or wait until January, the key is planning. With the right preparation, you can save both time and money, and secure an office that matches your company’s needs – whether it’s a traditional office, flexible coworking, or a sublease.
At Spacefinder, we help companies:
- Compare office spaces across locations and price points
- Narrow down options that fit your budget and requirements
- Negotiate favorable terms with landlords
 Try our platform for free at www.spacefinder.no and find the office space that fits your business.
About the Author
This article is written by Lauritz Kittelsen, advisor at Spacefinder. Lauritz specializes in the office leasing market and helps small and medium-sized businesses find, compare, and negotiate the right office solution – whether traditional offices, coworking, or sublease.