Secure the Right Location, Terms & Costs for Long-Term Success
Choosing a great location is half the battle — but negotiating the lease is where many new burger franchisees lose money, flexibility, or control. A poorly negotiated lease can eat into your profits, restrict your growth, or tie you to a space that limits your brand experience.
At BurgerFranchiseMaster.com, powered by Star Brands Consulting Group, we guide franchisees through one of the most critical steps of launching a burger business: lease negotiation.
Here’s how to approach your lease like a seasoned operator — even if it’s your first time.
🧭 1. Start with Market Research
Before you sit at the table with a landlord, understand the local market:
- Compare rental rates in the area
- Study foot traffic patterns and competitor proximity
- Consider growth forecasts for the neighborhood (new malls, transport links, etc.)
Tip: Landlords respect tenants who know the numbers.
🗣️ 2. Bring in a Tenant Rep or Lease Consultant
Hiring a commercial real estate agent or franchise lease consultant can:
- Help you avoid legal traps
- Secure better rates and terms
- Give you leverage as an informed negotiator
Star Brands Consulting Group offers advisory services specifically for franchisees.
📄 3. Key Lease Clauses to Watch
Here are the top terms that can make or break your burger franchise location:
✅ Rent and Escalation
Negotiate a competitive base rent and limit annual increases (no more than 3–5%).
✅ Lease Term and Renewal
Aim for a 5–10 year lease with renewal options to protect your location investment.
✅ Exclusivity Clause
Ensure your landlord can’t lease nearby units to a competing burger or fast-food brand.
✅ CAM (Common Area Maintenance) Fees
Make sure shared maintenance costs are clearly defined — and fair.
✅ Exit Clause or “Good Guy” Clause
In case things don’t go as planned, this clause allows you to exit responsibly without severe penalties.
✅ Build-Out Allowance
Negotiate for the landlord to cover part of your renovation/build-out costs — often called a tenant improvement (TI) allowance.
🔒 4. Negotiate for Flexibility
Ask for:
- Rent abatement (free rent during construction/startup months)
- Subletting options in case you want to relocate or sell
- Signage rights to increase your visibility
📈 5. Think Long-Term
Don’t just negotiate for opening — think about:
- Future expansion
- Adding a ghost kitchen or delivery hub
- The impact of renovations or area redevelopment
Every clause should support your 5–10 year business plan.
🧠 Final Thoughts
A burger franchise lease isn’t just a contract — it’s a foundation for profitability and operational control. Rushing through negotiations or accepting boilerplate terms can lead to long-term regret.
Need Expert Help with Your Franchise Lease?
At BurgerFranchiseMaster.com, powered by Star Brands Consulting Group, we help franchisees:
- Analyze location opportunities
- Review and negotiate lease terms
- Connect with experienced franchise tenant lawyers
- Maximize build-out and financial support
📞 Schedule a Lease Advisory Call Today
📥 Download Our Franchise Lease Negotiation Checklist (PDF)