How to Read a Site Plan

Retail shopping centers take a lot of thought, planning, and development to provide amenities for surrounding communities. Considerations for grocery, restaurants and various conveniences we have all grown accustomed to, such as barbers, salons, clothing stores, and our favorite fast food eateries are just a few of the amenities that are planned for.

As a business owner, you may be seeking space in a shopping center and are looking for a particular space that will provide the amenities you need to run your business. Knowing how to read a site plan can come in handy as you navigate the commercial real estate world with your agent.

A site plan refers to a building or architectural plan in the form of a document or drawing. Site plans usually portray building footprints, foundation, sewer and water lines, lighting, landscaping, and other proposed elements. (source)

Site plans also can show the availability of spaces for lease as well as square footage. A commercial real estate at MWCRE can provide further details such as gap analysis, businesses and communities that surround the shopping center, and negotiations of the property you are interested in leasing, such as NNN.

1. 1. Pad space: A pad space is a freestanding parcel of commercial real estate located in the front of a larger shopping center or strip mall.
   2. In-line spaces: These are buildings that are non-end cap. Typical retail tenants that you will see in-line are nail salons, dentists, small restaurants.
   3. End caps: End caps are located at the far ends of a shopping center or strip mall. These are highly desirable spaces and typically cost anywhere from $5-15 more per square foot. They can be ideal for visibility and signage.
   4. Tenants and Vacancies: Site plans will also show current tenants, vacancies, and parking.

If you have further questions regarding a site plan, leasing or purchasing a retail space we are the experts for you! Contact an agent today! 

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