Commercial lease lawyer focused on clear costs and workable terms
Start Confident, Finish Confident
A fair lease is the backbone of a healthy business or building. As your commercial lease lawyer, we translate fine print into real numbers and timelines so you can plan with confidence. The Law Offices of Jeffrey Sell supports tenants and landlords across Will, DuPage, Kane, and Cook.
Before You Sign, Or Right After
Bring us in to review or draft the lease and set expectations around base rent, CAM and NNN, and delivery. We document build-out scope, TI allowances, and rent commencement tied to permits and inspections. Rights to renew, expand, assign, or sublease are shaped to your growth plan.
Protecting Tenants During The Term
We push for transparency on operating expenses including definitions, exclusions, and audit rights. Guaranties are sized and set to burn off when performance is proven. Clear maintenance and repair obligations prevent finger-pointing when HVAC or roof issues appear.
Protecting Landlords During The Term
Defaults, late fees, cure, and re-entry provisions are written to be enforceable and practical. Operating expense language is consistent across tenants to reduce disputes and simplify reconciliations. We provide playbooks for renewals and build-outs to keep value steady.
Local Leasing Context
Neighborhood storefronts near Northwestern in Evanston, busy strips near Woodfield in Schaumburg, Route 59 retail in Naperville, and medical or office near Fox Valley in Aurora each have their own rhythms. Will, DuPage, Kane, and Cook leasing customs influence security deposits, delivery dates, and signage rules. We help set terms that match the location.
Answers For Commercial Leasing
What is the difference between CAM and NNN
CAM covers shared upkeep and operations for common areas. NNN typically adds taxes and insurance on top of CAM, shifting more cost to tenants. We define and cap these so bills are predictable.
How can a tenant limit surprise expenses
Negotiate caps on controllable costs and secure audit rights with access to backup. Exclude landlord capital improvements and clarify management fees. Sample calculations in the lease reduce disputes later.
What is a reasonable personal guaranty
It depends on tenant strength, build-out, and term. We often negotiate limited or sunset guaranties that burn off after milestones. Tying the cap to months of rent is a common approach.
Why do options and assignment clauses matter
Renewal and expansion options give room to grow or downsize. Assignment and sublease rights help you sell the business or adapt without starting over. These tools protect value and flexibility.
Can you turn around a short lease quickly
Yes, but we still check the big-ticket risk items first. Maintenance, HVAC, roof, parking, and exclusive use often drive real cost. A focused redline delivers speed without missing what matters.
Meet the Team
Our attorneys
New York City, NY
Office
Phone:
45 Rockefeller Plaza, Floor 20
New York, NY 10111
Valencia, Spain
Office
Phone:
Gran Via de Ferran el Católic
Valencia, Spain 46008