Bouldering Rock Gym in Commercial High-rise or Parking Garage
Hello! I’ve never leased any commercial space, but I want to propose the idea of building a climbing gym on a roof top patio or the top floor of a parking garage. I realize this would include getting structural inspections done to ensure the building could handle the weight. Knowing this, what is the best way to approach the property management company/landlord about the possibility of a lease?

Do I share my idea/goal with a broker and let them do the approaching/negotiation? 

Do I see if they open/opposed to the idea first and then approach a broker?

Any suggestions on finding a good broker?
[{"id": "e4lezb1", "text": "I think the properties that would work for this are very limited.  You should be able to identify them and either go directly to the owner or hire a broker at that point to work your list.  This is a pretty half cocked idea right now though and I\u2019d suggest doing more due diligence on your own before approaching anyone. ", "replies": [{"id": "e4ljcoo", "text": "I do have a list of properties that I believe could work, but I see two hold ups. The building would need to agree to do it and if need to have a structural engineer sign off on the added weight. My thought is I need the building onboard first to consider the idea. \n\nI\u2019ve ran the numbers on build out and running the facility (dependent on lease cost/sf) and it all works out. \n\nWhat\u2019s the half-cocked portion that I need to resolve? I realize the idea is \u201cout there\u201d and it\u2019d be a hard pitch to a landlord, but I\u2019m not sure what I haven\u2019t thought of. Help! Haha", "replies": [], "depth": 2}], "depth": 1}, {"id": "e4lkbu5", "text": "Why do you want to make it out door? In indoor space utilizing a warehouse or industrial building in an industrial park with sufficient parking, would probably benefit you more.", "replies": [{"id": "e4ll0w1", "text": "Able to be in a central downtown location, great weather for 9 months a year during operating hours, minimal buildout needs (no HVAC, no additional lighting) the buildings I\u2019m interested in have common restrooms which means I don\u2019t have to build that out. It will also be a unique location/experience. \n\nThe nearest industrial /warehouse buildings are not within the central core which looses a large amount of customers. \n\nCheck out [Dumbo Boulders](https://dumbo.thecliffsclimbing.com) for an idea of what I\u2019m going for!", "replies": [{"id": "e4lmyl0", "text": "What area are you looking at? Do you have the financials?", "replies": [], "depth": 3}, {"id": "e4lndng", "text": "Sure, if you're loaded. Your savings on build out won't matter much as outdoor walls are twice as expensive to maintain cause elements. Do you research.", "replies": [], "depth": 3}], "depth": 2}], "depth": 1}, {"id": "e4lqf0s", "text": "So, i think it\u2019s a crazy idea that most landlords will turn down, but if you were my client I would start by looking at vacant or failed rooftop patio restaurant/bar space.  These will have elevator access, and different load limits.", "replies": [{"id": "e4lw49y", "text": "Thanks for the input! There is an abandoned tennis court space on a 3rd story rooftop that is part of a larger high rise as well as a city owned parking garage with an abandoned tennis court rooftop. I was thinking those might be possibilities. Specifically the parking garage one as it\u2019s rooftop (appears to be) built just like the rest of the floors that hold cars. The challenge there is getting the city to allow a lease, but they are trying very hard to revitalize the downtown area. ", "replies": [], "depth": 2}, {"id": "e4n0vex", "text": "Even some garages with a surplus of extra parking. It would take up the same amount of room if not less than a new bike storage room.", "replies": [], "depth": 2}], "depth": 1}, {"id": "e4n0sgh", "text": "Love the idea. I work in brokerage in Northern Virginia and a group called Earth Treks recently moved into an old Sport &amp; Health location in Crystal City. \n\nI would recommend bringing a broker into the mix. They will have connections with the local landlords and will be able to get a good edge that way. I'd recommend marketing it as a \"tenant experience.\" In my area all the landlords are trying to one up the other by adding new amenities (from rooftop decks to new fitness centers to golf simulators to nitro coffee on tap) and adding a smaller bouldering amenity could be a great add for the right type of landlord. \n\nI could see this being a huge hit somewhere like Denver or another super active area. Would likely get more traction than some of the other major metro areas.\n\nFeel free to PM me if you have any other questions. I think you've got great potential depending on how you implement and market.", "replies": [], "depth": 1}]