BM Engineering is a rapidly growing all-round engineering firm that designs buildings and infrastructure for the private and public sectors. To expand their activities in the Antwerp region, they were looking for an office for rent close to the center of Antwerp with good accessibility, for around 20 employees. At a networking event, Jan Leye, the COO of BM Engineering, came into contact with one of the March Companions. He promptly referred him to Renée van Turenhout, the March Companion responsible for the Antwerp office market.

Renée was able to quickly map out all possible offices available for rent in downtown Antwerp. In addition, Renée was able to carefully present and discuss all the strengths and weaknesses of the respective options to BM Engineering.

After all, the range of offices for rent or sale in Antwerp is varied:

• the choice of vicinity depends on accessibility by public transport or car (and depends on which regions the office users come from);
• one new building office or a extant building usually has a difference in techniques and price;
• for 20 people, a private office floor is more appropriate, but nevertheless, it is worthwhile to offer coworking to view.

By making a thorough overview of the existing options, Renée, together with the management of BM Engineering, was able to make a shortlist of the eligible locations. Visits were recorded to the most appropriate office spaces. During each visit, Renée was in close contact with the owners of the offices, in order to always provide the most transparent information to both parties.

The final choice fell on the office at the Britselei in Antwerp. A rental proposal was developed with the owner, after which a balanced lease agreement under common law could be signed.