Build-to-Suit
Build-to-Suit is a type of real estate arrangement where a property developer constructs a building specifically designed for one tenant's needs. Think of it like having a custom suit made instead of buying one off the rack - the building is tailored to exactly what the tenant needs. This is common in commercial real estate, especially for businesses like retail stores, warehouses, or office buildings that have specific requirements. The tenant typically commits to a long-term lease before construction begins, which helps secure financing for the project.
Examples in Resumes
Managed Build-to-Suit development projects worth $50M for national retail chains
Negotiated Build-to-Suit lease agreements for distribution centers
Led site selection and planning for BTS projects in the Southeast region
Typical job title: "Build-to-Suit Development Managers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Build-to-Suit Development Managers
Professional Organizations
Job Boards
Networking Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: Can you walk me through your most complex Build-to-Suit project and how you handled challenges?
Expected Answer: Look for answers that demonstrate experience managing large projects from start to finish, including site selection, tenant negotiations, construction oversight, and problem-solving abilities. They should mention budget management, timeline adherence, and stakeholder communication.
Q: How do you evaluate the financial viability of a Build-to-Suit project?
Expected Answer: Strong answers should cover assessment of tenant creditworthiness, lease terms, construction costs, land costs, market conditions, and return on investment calculations. They should also mention risk management strategies.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What are the key elements of a Build-to-Suit lease agreement?
Expected Answer: Candidate should mention lease length (typically 10-20 years), rent structure, maintenance responsibilities, tenant improvement allowances, and construction specifications. Understanding of both tenant and landlord perspectives is important.
Q: How do you coordinate between tenants, contractors, and architects in a Build-to-Suit project?
Expected Answer: Look for experience in project management, communication skills, and ability to balance different stakeholder needs. Should mention regular meetings, progress tracking, and problem resolution processes.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is the difference between Build-to-Suit and speculative development?
Expected Answer: Should explain that Build-to-Suit is custom-designed for a specific tenant who commits before construction, while speculative development is built without a committed tenant in hopes of finding one later.
Q: What are the basic steps in a Build-to-Suit project?
Expected Answer: Should mention site selection, tenant requirements gathering, design phase, construction bidding, project timeline creation, construction management, and move-in coordination.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-3 years)
- Basic understanding of commercial real estate development
- Project coordination assistance
- Document management
- Site visit coordination
Mid (3-7 years)
- Project management
- Lease agreement negotiation
- Contractor coordination
- Budget management
Senior (7+ years)
- Complex project leadership
- Strategic planning
- Risk management
- Team management
Red Flags to Watch For
- No experience with commercial real estate development
- Lack of knowledge about construction processes
- Poor understanding of lease structures
- Limited project management experience
- No experience working with corporate tenants
Related Terms
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