Office Fit Out Finance

Add a header to begin generating the table of contents

A well-designed office space can improve productivity, enhance company culture, and make a lasting impression on clients. However, office fit outs can be expensive, making financing a practical option for many businesses. Whether you’re relocating, expanding, or refurbishing your existing space, securing the right financing can help manage costs while maintaining cash flow.

In this guide, we’ll explore office fit out finance, typical costs, available funding options, and how you can access the right financial solution for your business.

Add a header to begin generating the table of contents

What is an office ‘fit out’?

An office fit-out is the process of stocking an office space with the necessary tools, materials, and furniture needed to operate your business. For example, when first starting out you may want to purchase some large desks for your meeting rooms, cubicles for employees, and laptops for them to work from. The issue then stands– how will you pay for this? Many opt for financing.

What is fit out finance?

Office fit out finance refers to obtaining the funding needed to help businesses cover the cost of refurbishing, renovating, or equipping their office space. This financing allows businesses to spread the cost over time rather than making a large upfront payment, preserving working capital for other (more pressing) business needs.

What does office fit out finance cover?

Depending on your individual needs fit out finance can be used for various office-related expenses, including:

Furniture & fixtures – Desks, chairs, meeting tables, storage units, and ergonomic setups.
Technology & equipment – Computers, servers, telephony systems, and security installations.
Lighting & electrical Work – Wiring, lighting installation, and energy-efficient upgrades.
Partitioning & interior design – Walls, doors, flooring, and decorative elements.
Air Conditioning & ventilation – Climate control systems to ensure a comfortable working environment.
Compliance & safety upgrades – Fire safety, disability access improvements, and soundproofing.

What many new businesses may not know upfront is that many office buildings don’t come ‘operation ready’. Some office locations may not even have HVAC, electrical, or walls installed yet. It depends on the commercial property.

How much does an office fit out typically cost?

The cost is generally per square foot and varies depending on location, office size, quality of materials, and level of customization. For example, a high rise in the city will likely cost you more to develop than a strip center outside of the city limits. On the other hand, that high rise may be less expensive if it’s already been outfitted by the previous lessee. Here’s are some rough estimates depending on the industry:

Basic Office Space: $51 to $61 per square foot
Mid-Range Office Space: $65 to $80 per square foot
Executive Office Space: $96 to $157 per square foot
Furniture: $28 to $80 per square foot
Fitness Facility: $155 to $210 per square foot
Conference Center: $150 to $205 per square foot
Employee Dining Facility, kitchen: $162 to $241 per square foot

What finance options are available for office fit outs?

Like many other business needs you have plenty of financing options for office fit outs, each suited to different needs and financial strategies. Here are our top 5 choices.

1. Business loans

Term loans – A lump sum with fixed repayments over a set term. Suitable for businesses that need full project funding upfront.
SBA loans – Government-backed loans with competitive rates, ideal for SMEs with strong financials.

2. Leasing and hire purchase

Equipment leasing – Spread the cost of office furniture, IT equipment, and other essentials without ownership responsibility.
Hire purchase – Own the assets at the end of the payment term while spreading costs over time.

3. Business line of credit

You have the option to use a business line of credit to purchase the equipment your need. This will provide flexible access to funds for fit out expenses as needed, with interest paid only on the amount used.

4. Asset-based financing

If you have the option you can use your existing business assets (e.g., real estate, inventory) as collateral to secure asset-based funding. Exercise caution here as you don’t want to risk a vital piece of machinery for new chairs. If you worry about not being able to pay your monthly dues you may want to hold off for another option.

5. Commercial property loans

If the office fit out is part of a property purchase, businesses can integrate costs into a commercial mortgage. This means you can include this in your loan but this also means you will be paying interest on these items for the term of the loan.

What are the benefits of financing an office fit out?

Financing an office fit out offers several advantages for SMEs with the main one being retaining your cash flow for other business operations. Here’s the full list:

Preserve cash flow – Avoid large upfront costs and keep working capital available for day-to-day operations.
Tax efficiency – Certain finance agreements, such as leasing, may be tax-deductible, reducing overall liabilities.
Access higher-quality fit-outs – Spread payments to afford a better-designed and more functional workspace.
Flexible repayment terms – Choose financing structures that align with business cash flow cycles.
Avoid asset depreciation – Leasing equipment allows businesses to upgrade without worrying about depreciation.
Improved productivity & employee satisfaction – A well-designed office leads to better employee morale, retention, and efficiency.

What are the disadvantages?

As with all pros, there are some cons to consider including interest charges, debt and limits on the lease options.

Interest costs – Borrowing incurs additional costs over time, making the total expense higher than an outright purchase.
Commitment to repayments – Businesses must ensure they can meet repayment obligations, even in times of economic uncertainty.
Potential for debt accumulation – If not managed properly, taking on multiple financing agreements can impact overall financial stability.
Leasing limitations – Some leasing agreements may include restrictions on modifications or early buyout options.

How to apply for office fit out finance

Applying for office fit out finance requires careful planning to ensure you secure the right funding with terms that suit your business. While the process may seem straightforward, it can take anywhere from two to six weeks depending on the lender, the type of financing, and the complexity of your application. Below is a step-by-step guide to navigating the process efficiently.

Step 1: Find out your fit out needs

Before seeking financing, it’s essential to define the scope of your project, establish a budget, and set a realistic timeline.

Assess your office space requirements – Consider factors like layout, number of employees, meeting rooms, and storage needs.
Break down expected costs – Include expenses such as furniture, technology, partitioning, lighting, and compliance upgrades.
Set a realistic timeline – Ensure that the fit out process aligns with your business operations to minimize disruption.

A clear project plan helps lenders understand how funds will be used and increase your chances of approval.

Step 2: Evaluate your financial position

Lenders will assess your financial health before approving financing. Reviewing your business’s financial standing in advance can help you determine your eligibility and improve your chances of securing funding.

Analyze cash flow and profit margins – Ensure your business can manage monthly repayments.
Check your creditworthiness – A strong credit history can help you secure better terms.
Assess existing debt obligations – High levels of debt may limit your borrowing capacity.
Determine your financing needs – Avoid borrowing more than necessary to keep costs manageable.

If your business has a weaker financial profile, consider improving cash flow and reducing liabilities before applying.

Step 3: Compare financing options

There are multiple funding solutions available, and selecting the right one depends on your business’s needs, repayment preferences, and long-term goals.

Business loans – Provide lump-sum funding with fixed repayment terms.
Leasing & hire purchase – Spread the cost of equipment and furniture while maintaining cash flow.
Business line of credit – Access funds as needed without taking on unnecessary debt.
Asset-based financing – Use existing business assets to secure better terms.

Comparing lenders and their terms, interest rates, and repayment flexibility is crucial to securing the best deal.

Step 4: Gather documentation

To streamline the application process, prepare all necessary documents in advance. Lenders typically require:

Business financial statements – Profit and loss statements, balance sheets, and cash flow reports.
Credit history report – A strong credit score improves approval chances and interest rates.
Fit out project proposal & cost estimates – Detailed breakdown of how the funds will be used.
Business plan (for larger loan amounts) – A solid plan demonstrates growth potential and repayment capability.

Having these documents ready can significantly reduce processing time and avoid delays.

Step 5: Apply for funding

Once you’ve selected a financing option and prepared the necessary documents, submit your application.

Choose a lender or funding platform – A platform like Swoop can match your business with suitable lenders.
Submit your application online or through a financial advisor – Ensure all details are accurate to prevent rejections.
Expect a review process – This can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks, depending on the lender.
Negotiate terms if needed – If approved, you may be able to adjust repayment terms to better fit your cash flow.
Receive funding and start your office fit out – Funds are typically disbursed in a lump sum or installments, depending on the agreement.

Get started with Swoop

Securing office fit out finance doesn’t have to be complicated. At Swoop, we help businesses find the right funding solutions quickly and efficiently.

Ready to upgrade your office space? Register with Swoop today and discover the best office fit out finance options for your business.