Subleasing office space can be a quick and efficient process – or take time, depending on several key factors. In this article, you’ll get an overview of what influences the timeline, how to increase your chances of success, and how Spacefinder can help.
What Affects the Timeline?
The time it takes to find a subtenant depends on a combination of location, standard, size, and how the space is marketed. Here are some of the most important factors:
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Location: Offices in central areas, such as downtown Oslo, typically have higher demand – especially smaller spaces. In less central areas, traffic tends to be lower, and finding a tenant often requires more proactive effort.
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Size: Smaller office units are usually subleased faster than larger ones, which can take more time to place.
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Standard and flexibility: Modern, flexible office solutions are more attractive and easier to sublease than outdated or highly specialized spaces.
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Marketing and exposure: The way you present the space – visually and descriptively – has a big impact on how quickly it gains attention.
Use Spacefinder to Find a Subtenant Faster
Spacefinder is a search platform for vacant office space in and around Oslo. It’s an effective tool for both sublessors and potential tenants. Here’s how you can use it:
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Reach active office seekers: Listing your space on Spacefinder makes it visible to businesses actively looking for office solutions – from startups to growing companies.
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Smart filtering tools: Tenants can search based on size, location, price, and amenities, which helps match your listing with relevant leads.
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Support and guidance: We help with listing creation, pricing advice, and promotional strategies – so you get professional assistance without necessarily involving a traditional broker.
Whether you prefer to handle it yourself or want expert help, Spacefinder offers a low-threshold way to get started with subleasing.
Should You Use a Commercial Real Estate Broker?
While some companies manage to find subtenants on their own, most will benefit from working with a professional broker. Here’s why:
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Market insight and network: Brokers know the local market and are connected to businesses actively searching for space.
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Proactive outreach: A skilled broker doesn’t just wait for responses – they proactively contact relevant tenant groups.
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Reliable agreements: A professional ensures that the sublease agreement is robust and legally sound.
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Broader exposure: Brokers can promote your space through channels you might not otherwise reach.
If your company has experience and a solid network, you might manage the process yourself. But even then, you may miss opportunities without professional support.
Typical Lead Times
Based on experience, the time it takes to secure a subtenant is typically:
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Small spaces: 1–3 months
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Larger spaces: 3–6 months
These are general estimates, but they offer a helpful time frame for planning purposes.
Frequently Asked Questions About Subleasing
When should we start looking for a subtenant?
Start 3–6 months before your desired transfer date. The earlier you begin, the better your chances of finding the right tenant – especially for larger spaces.
What’s the difference between subleasing and regular leasing?
With subleasing, the current tenant rents out the space to a new user, usually with the landlord’s approval and within the terms of the original lease.
Do we need approval from the landlord to sublease?
Yes. Most lease agreements require written permission from the landlord before a sublease can take place.
How can we make our space more attractive for subleasing?
High-quality photos, clear information, competitive pricing, and clean, flexible spaces are key. Professional marketing also makes a big difference.
Does it cost anything to use a commercial broker for subleasing?
Yes, typically you pay a commission based on the rental value. However, many find that the investment results in faster deals and better agreements.
About the Author
This article was written by Lauritz Kittelsen, advisor at Spacefinder. He specializes in helping small and medium-sized businesses find or sublease office space.