Quickly supply alternative strategic theme areas vis-a-vis B2C mindshare. Objectively repurpose stand-alone synergy via user-centric architectures.
Years Experiences in Occupier Services
There are low standards in commercial real estate brokerage for knowledge and performance. As a result, solutions tabled for companies in need of laboratory space are often created by sales representatives with little to no life sciences experience. This leads to a risk of Frankensteined plans and budgets that expose tenants to significant financial surprises—often discovered only after they occupy the space.
The Lab Occupier team is e a contract real estate organization that works solely on behalf of tenants in need of specialized laboratory space. Thanks to our deep market knowledge, transaction experience, and focused process, we consistently generate more value from fewer square feet..
It is important to note that because we advocate only for tenants, the Lab Occupier Team is uniquely positioned to execute assignments without concern for real or perceived conflicts of interest.
With a strong appreciation for science-driven innovation, the Lab Occupier Team brings specialized real estate insight to every client interaction. From early-stage startups to established biotech firms, we provide tailored strategies that align with your growth. More than brokers, we are tenant advocates, ensuring your scientific goals are never hindered by real estate complexity.
Senior Vice President | Sales Representative
Like many of his clients, Jim challenges the status quo and approaches real estate differently. Since 1989, he has focused on occupier services and now leads the only Lab Occupier Team in the Ontario Life Sciences Corridor. Thanks to his extensive experience and market knowledge, Jim consistently delivers real estate strategies that drive client value.
Associate Vice President | Sales Representative
Pat specializes in financial analysis and simplifies complex projections with ease. Previously a leasing manager, he brings a unique perspective on both tenant retention and landlord negotiations. As a result, clients benefit from strategies that bridge occupier services with balanced real estate decisions.
Sales Representative
John graduated from the University of Toronto in 2023 with a double major in history and political science. Shortly after, he joined the Lab Occupier Team at Lennard Commercial Realty. By applying his research and sales skills, he contributes meaningfully to the team’s mission of helping clients grow within the life sciences space.
Business Liaison
Xenia is a life sciences professional with a passion for problem-solving in regulated environments. By combining her scientific background with strong organizational and communication skills, she delivers tailored solutions for lab tenants. Ultimately, her goal is to ensure every client feels supported throughout their real estate journey.
Mitigating risk, removing uncertainty, and reducing real estate costs are top priorities for every tenant. However, achieving these goals has historically been difficult due to listing brokers focusing only on what is available and affordable, rather than on what is ideal. As a result, rent increases have often seemed inevitable. Therefore, Occupier Services takes a fresh approach by using innovative strategies to explore what is truly possible in a negotiation—making every step of the process transparent and tenant-focused.
Building or renting wet lab space is extraordinarily expensive. Therefore, reducing real estate expenses begins with a thorough understanding of what is actually required. We analyze the number and size of research teams, the type of research, equipment and facilities needed, lab support services, and how each element ties into the space. This proactive approach ensures the right solution is identified from the outset.
Demand for wet lab space continues to increase across Canada. However, supply often lags behind, especially in key markets. Thanks to our deep focus on life sciences, we know of lab spaces that are available for lease but not yet listed publicly. As a result, our clients gain access to a wider range of options. This access is critical to finding the best space for consideration.
Tenants frequently sign leases without knowing the true cost of building out and occupying their space. Therefore, we developed the Lab Occupier process to create an initial space plan that enables accurate construction budgeting. Completing these steps before lease signing empowers tenants to make informed decisions and significantly reduce financial risk.
Life Sciences real estate transactions are more complex than standard commercial deals. As a result, having specialized experience is crucial. We guide tenants through which terms to address and how to position them during negotiations. This strategic support plays a key role in reducing risk and increasing the chances of success.
Measuring value in commercial real estate depends on perspective. Most tenants focus on Gross Rent. However, landlords often base value on Net Effective Rent, which includes amortized costs like permits, architectural fees, and construction charges. That’s why we help tenants understand both perspectives. By identifying all disclosed and undisclosed costs, we ensure tenants make confident decisions using the best available information.
Whether our clients operate a single facility or manage multiple locations across Canada, the Lab Occupier team acts as an in-house real estate department. As a result, we proactively identify market opportunities and reduce occupancy costs before they escalate.
For more information, contact Lennard Commercial Realty
The LabOccupier team is a contract real estate organization that works solely on behalf of tenants in need of specialized laboratory space.
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