Selecting and Building Out Commercial Space

Selecting and Building Out Commercial Space (2026 Guide)

Starting or expanding your business into a commercial space is exciting and complex. From site selection and zoning to design, permitting, budgeting, and construction, there are many moving pieces that can impact your timeline, costs, and overall success.

Selecting and Building Out Commercial Space is a practical, step-by-step guide designed specifically for small business owners navigating the commercial real estate and construction process for the first time or looking to do it better the second time.

This resource was created by the Metro-West Construction Alliance Sector Partnership, which is co-facilitated by the Greater Arvada Chamber of Commerce and Workforce Colorado (serving Jefferson, Clear Creek and Gilpin counties). The guide brings together architects, engineers commercial real estate brokers, general contractors and local government leaders collaborated to create a locally informed guide based on real-world expertise.

What You’ll Learn

This guide walks you through:

• The full project timeline, from pre-lease or pre-purchase considerations to construction completion

• How to select and interview your project team (architects, engineers, brokers, GCs)

• Common mistakes owners should avoid

• Project delivery methods (Design-Bid-Build, Design-Build, CMAR)

• Essential construction and real estate terms you’ll encounter

• General tips that set you up for a successful project

Whether you’re opening your first brick-and-mortar location, expanding operations, or relocating, this guide helps you make informed decisions at every step.