Before renting an office, in addition to knowing the market price, you must know the maintenance fee, as it can significantly increase the cost of the office you plan to occupy. According to SiiLA Market Analytics, the average maintenance fee increases the cost of offices by 16% in the leading real estate markets nationwide, including Mexico City, Guadalajara, Monterrey, and Queretaro.

The maintenance fee is a regular payment that tenants make to cover the conservation and administration expenses of private and/or common areas. These payments are used to keep the facilities in good condition, such as the building's exterior, parking lots, and elevators, and they cover services such as repairs, cleaning, supplies, and maintenance staff wages. However, the maintenance fee may vary depending on the size and location of the property, as well as the services and amenities offered. Generally, it is established based on projected maintenance and management costs and is divided among all tenants in monthly, quarterly, or annual payments.

In Class B offices, for example, the average maintenance fee increases the rental cost by 17%. In comparison, according to SiiLA, Class A+ and Class A offices result in 16% and 15% variations, respectively. These differences are due to two main factors. On the one hand, maintaining a Class B office can be more expensive because these properties tend to be older or less modern, requiring more repairs and adjustments. On the other hand, sustaining Class A+ offices can be more costly because they have more features and services, raising maintenance and administration costs.

Among the analyzed markets, Mexico City and Guadalajara have the highest cost increases (17%) due to the maintenance fee, followed by Queretaro (15%) and Monterrey (14%). Additionally, SiiLA Market Analytics data indicate that in Mexico City's North submarket – which stretches from Miguel Hidalgo Borough to Atizapan de Zaragoza, Cuautitlan Izcalli, and Tlalnepantla – is where the highest cost increases occur, averaging 25%. In contrast, the Valley submarket in Monterrey – which covers a large part of the San Pedro Garza Garcia municipality – shows lower variations, with an average of 9%.

It is important to emphasize that although the tenant pays the monthly maintenance fee, it should not be considered an additional income source for the landlord. Property owners who strive to maintain proper business practices often provide their tenants with an annual report that outlines how the collected money has been utilized. If there is any discrepancy between the funds collected and the funds used, typically, that amount is refunded to the tenant.

Even though maintenance fees can increase the rental cost, they also guarantee proper conservation and management of properties, ensuring an optimal working environment for occupants. Therefore, when evaluating your rental options, it is crucial to consider both the market price and the maintenance fee to make an informed decision and avoid financial surprises in the future. For more information on this and other topics, visit REsource or contact us at contacto@siila.com.mx.