Should I Stay or Should I Go?

Arguments & Reasons for Moving Office or Re-Negotiating Your Current Office Lease Agreement

At Office Freedom, we've helped thousands of businesses find their ideal workspace - from startups to global enterprises. One common driver we get from our clients for why they are looking for our help is “Should I stay, or should I go?”. It seems the reason they ask this question may be down to many reasons including rising costs, expansion plans, flexibility needs or simply looking for a change.

It's not a simple decision. The landscape of work has shifted dramatically. Flexible working, rising operational costs, and the need for high-performance spaces has redefined what businesses look for in an office. That’s why now, more than ever, this question is becoming more common and needs deeper analysis.

In this blog, we'll break down the key considerations to help you determine whether it's time to move - or if renegotiating your current agreement could give you everything you need, right where you are.

The Office Market Has Changed - Have You?

Before we dive into pros and cons, let's look at the broader context.

The global shift toward flexible working has accelerated since 2020. Traditional long leases are becoming less attractive. More companies are opting for serviced, managed, and hybrid spaces that adapt with them as they grow and move forward.

At Office Freedom, we see this trend play out daily of clients looking for more flexibility than their current provider is offering, whether that's around costs or the space itself...and office providers know that's what potential clients are now looking for. What does this mean for you? Simply put: you have more leverage, more options, and more negotiating power than ever before.

So, should you stay or go? Let’s weigh the arguments for both sides.

The Case for Moving Office: Fresh Start, Fresh Gains

Sometimes, a move is the smartest move. Staying put might feel comfortable, but relocating can open the door to better space, improved terms, and fresh opportunities for your business. When approached strategically, moving can be a powerful way to level up - and yes, Office Freedom can help make it happen.

1. Better Value for Money

One of the most common reasons businesses move is cost. If you've been in your current office space for a few years, chances are the market has shifted. There may be better deals, improved amenities, and higher-quality environments available nearby.

At Office Freedom, we often help clients cut costs by 20-40% just by relocating to a newer, more flexible office arrangement - without sacrificing on location or quality. It’s always worth reviewing the market (benchmarking) to at least check if you’re paying fair market value. Why not, our service is free!

2. Flexibility That Matches How You Work Today

Your team's needs have likely changed. Maybe you're hybrid, or maybe you're growing rapidly. A move can allow you to:

• Downsize and save if your team is remote
• Upsize without being locked into long-term leases
• Choose a layout that reflects modern collaboration styles

Many newer buildings offer plug-and-play setups, ultra-fast Wi-Fi, breakout zones, wellness rooms, and more - all included into the monthly price. It’s best to first get an understanding of what works best for you, then look into the market for that solution.

3. Enhanced Culture & Talent Attraction

Let’s face it: where you work says a lot about who you are. An inspiring, modern office can boost morale, attract top-tier talent, and communicate your brand’s values better than a dated workspace tucked away in a second-rate building.

If you’re fighting for top candidates, a move to a well-designed, central office could be the edge you need. Higher cost usually comes along with a more premium product, so it’s worth considering this cost vs. benefit for your business before you go hunting for an office in The Shard.

4. Tech & Sustainability Upgrades

Older offices may lack energy efficiency, smart access systems, or modern IT infrastructure. Newer spaces are more likely to offer:

• Green certifications (BREEAM, LEED)
• Air quality monitoring
• Biophilic design elements
• Touchless entry systems

For many businesses, moving isn’t just a practical upgrade—it’s a statement about values. The Tech industry is the biggest user of flexible office solutions, along with financial services, so if you’re within either sector it is definitely worth exploring the market as many office providers deliberately cater to your specific needs.

The Case for Staying in your Existing Office: Leverage What You’ve Got

Moving isn't right for everyone. In fact, staying and renegotiating your current agreement can be an incredibly smart play - if done strategically. And yes, Office Freedom can also help you with this too.

1. Negotiation Power

If your lease is ending soon, you’re in a strong position to renegotiate. Landlords would rather retain a good tenant than face a vacant unit in a competitive market. At Office Freedom, we help clients use market data to push for:

• Reduced rent
• Break clauses or shorter commitments
• Added services (cleaning, furniture, utilities)
• Refurbishments or layout changes

It’s amazing what becomes possible when you introduce real-time market comparisons into the conversation. The provider knows you’ve got expert representation and you’re reviewing their competitors, so they have extra motivation to retain your signature.

2. Business Continuity

Moving takes time and money. Staying where you are eliminates disruption and keeps your team focused on what matters most - serving your clients and growing your business.

If your current location ticks the boxes for location, commute, and client proximity, staying may be the most efficient path forward, if not the most cost effective.

3. Sentimental or Strategic Value

Some offices hold more than desks—they hold memories, milestones, and meaning. Perhaps you’re in a historic building, near an important partner, or in a postcode that adds cachet.

If your address carries strategic value, moving for small cost savings might be penny wise but pound foolish.

4. Possibility to Refurb & Reimagine

Staying doesn’t have to mean settling. You can work with your landlord (or a design firm) to refresh your current space:

• New fit-outs
• Open-plan transformations
• Adding more collaborative or wellness areas

With the right support, you can breathe new life into your space—without the box-packing hassle.

Red Flags That Suggest It’s Time to Move

If you're still undecided, here are a few signs your current space might be holding you back:

• You're paying for space that goes unused
• Employees are disengaged or skipping the office
• The building lacks modern facilities
• The rent is above market value
• You’re planning growth but the space can’t adapt
• If you nodded along to any of the above, it’s time to explore your options.

How Office Freedom Can Help (Whether You Stay or Go)

We aren't just here to help you move - we're here to help you make the right decision. Our expert consultants work with businesses every day to audit current needs, compare market opportunities, and negotiate on your behalf.

Here’s how we support both paths:

If You're Thinking of Moving:

• Market Search: We give you access to 15,000+ flexible offices worldwide
• Shortlisting & Tours: We arrange viewings and filter options by your priorities
• Negotiation: We get you the best price and terms—period
• Zero Cost: Our service is completely free to our clients.

If You’re Thinking of Staying:

• Lease Review: We help you understand your contract
• Benchmarking: We compare your current deal to similar spaces nearby
• Negotiation Support: We arm you with facts to help secure better terms
• Refit Recommendations: We connect you with design partners if needed

Final Thoughts: Don’t Wait for your Office Lease to End

One of the biggest mistakes we see? Businesses waiting until the final weeks of their office lease to make a move. In reality, your negotiating power 4-6 months before your contract end date.

Even if you’re just curious, starting the conversation early ensures you’re informed, prepared, and in control.

Let’s Talk

At Office Freedom, we don’t push you to move - we empower you to decide.

Whether you’re looking to reduce costs, boost flexibility, or find a better cultural fit, we can help. We’ve brokered over 40,000 office deals in more than 1000 cities, and we’re here to do the heavy lifting for you.

So, should you stay or should you go? Let’s find out which works best for you: Book a consultation