Everyone focuses on the cell tower lease rates when they’re asked to house by the tech giants. It’s an exciting time; you believe this is a viable way to earn extra income and that it’ll not impact your property value too much. Unfortunately, you can easily get wrapped up in the numbers and end up with a pretty poor deal. It’s time to stop and think before you snap up any deal presented to you – even if it’s a renewal lease. So, what five things should you do when a lease is presented to you?
Ask a Cell Tower Consultant to Review Any Lease – Before You Sign It
It really doesn’t matter if you have a basic understanding of cell tower leases or absolutely zero knowledge, you need someone to review every part of the lease. Consultants you contact – not provided by the tech company – can be assets to you as they will review the legal ins and outs of the lease. You might find it far easier to understand and consultants can explain some of the finer points you aren’t familiar with. They might also help you negotiate for better cell tower lease rates.
Don’t Jump at the First Rental Figures
Tech companies are looking to save money, and some may offer well below market value to lease your land. It’s not ideal for you, but it’s so easy to jump at the first figure they offer you. Sometimes, the offer looks good, and you think it’s the best you’ll get. In reality, it’s not the best or most fair offer for your land. If you aren’t sure about figures, talk to a cell tower consultant or research average market values. It’ll help ensure you get a fair offer. Know more here!
Thrash Out the Rental Figures Early On
Let’s be honest, if you cannot agree on a rental amount, there will be no agreement. It doesn’t matter if your property is the ideal candidate for the cell tower, if there is no meeting of the mind, there is no deal. While some tech companies will up their initial rental offer, some just won’t budge, and if you aren’t happy with the figure, it’s a waste to proceed. It’s essential to try and come to an agreement on the rental figures early on so that you don’t waste your time on the deal. Hopefully, the cell tower lease rates will be reasonable for you too.
Think of the Long-Term Consequences
It’s easy to put up with a cell tower on your land for a few years. You might not notice any impact on your day-to-day activities; however, it may impact your property value in ten years’ time. For example, you sign a 99-year lease. You’re in the fifth year of that lease and want to sell your home and property. Unfortunately, the cell tower could have an impact on the value of the home – and on the seller. Some sellers might not want to purchase property with a 99-year lease; while you could speak to a cell tower lease consultant, it might not help any if you have a signed contract.
So, you need to think of the long-term consequences of the lease along with the short-term ones.
Request the Site Plans
Even if you are renewing your cell tower lease, you still need to know what plans the tech companies have. For example, the tech company (the tenant) wants to install a new access road or further utilities. It’s essential you know where they will be installed. If this is your first time of housing a cell tower, you should always request the site plans. You need to know where the utility lines are going to run and where the tower will be installed. Remember, cell tower lease rates always remain the focus, but you have to consider the bigger picture too.
Always Approach a New Contract with Care
Cell tower leases aren’t overly difficult to understand, but there is technical jargon and legal terms hidden within and it’s those things that can cloud the subject. So, it is essential to take a moment and think before you sign a new contract or cell tower lease. You not only want to ensure the price is fair but also that the terms and conditions are suitable too. If in doubt, contact a cell tower consultant as they might be able to help ease your concerns. Click here for more information: https://www.christinalakevillage.com/whats-a-cell-tower-lease-worth/