Many commercial site owners in Los Angeles have discovered alternative revenue streams through long-term leases with billboard companies like Outfront Media, CBS Media, and Lamar. However,. When it comes time to renegotiate these leases, landlords can face a unique set of hurdles.
In 2001, the City of Los Angeles set a 25-year moratorium on all new billboard licenses. While current signs could remain under a 'grandfather' clause, neither site owners nor billboard operators can construct new commercial signs or replace current ones. This situation creates a high-stakes scenario during lease renegotiation, where if an lease isn't reached, the site owner may lose their monthly income indefinitely.
How Can Landlords Earn from Billboards?
Just like any other tenant, billboard income is generated from the lease payments made by the billboard operator. These operators, often large media companies, own numerous billboards and lease them out to advertisers based on monthly contracts. In addition to the base rent, some leases may also include extra income for the landlord, such as Common Area Upkeep (CAM) payments or excess revenue based on traffic counts.
Finding Rent for Billboard Leases in Los Angeles
Rent for billboard leases is often calculated based on the site's site, traffic counts. Previous ad revenue. Given that billboard leases can last for 20-30 years, it's crucial to negotiate a favorable rental rate. When the option arises.
Knowing Billboard Licenses in Los Angeles
The issuing of new billboard advertising licenses in Los Angeles is a rarity, with only a few narrow gaps. This plan underlines the value of keeping current billboard leases, given the difficulty of replacing them.
Hurdles and Tips for Negotiating Billboard Leases and Extensions
Negotiating with billboard operators can be a delicate step. Push too hard, and they might opt to end the lease. This leads to the loss of a reliable income source. It's key to manage these negotiations carefully, with a clear knowing of realistic pricing, lease terms. Keeping open clear updates.
Before entering negotiations, landlords should:
- Thoroughly review the current lease.
- Find comparable rents for other billboards in the area.
- Update traffic numbers, as this factor heavily influences the rent.
The Value of Due Diligence When Buying a Site with Billboard Income
For those considering purchasing a site with a billboard, due diligence is critical. Review the current lease and all amendments, check the billboard's current license with the city. Check if any rent concessions were given to the operator during events like the COVID-19 pandemic. Be sure to know all terms and states. This includes upside rent increases and duty for utilities and sign upkeep.
Upside Fines for Billboard Ordinance Violations in Los Angeles
It's key to know that any unlicensed or non-aligned sign or billboard can be subject to hefty fines from the City of Los Angeles. Making sure that the sign on your site matches the dimensions provided in the city license is crucial to avoid these fines.
The Value of Hiring Coastline Equity for Billboard Lease Negotiation
Engaging the services of a skilled site team like Coastline Equity can prove invaluable. When it comes to billboard lease negotiations. Our team thoroughly reviews current leases, checks billboard licenses, gives updated historical traffic counts. Presents rent comparables in your area. This full approach makes sure that you have all the key facts at your fingertips. When making critical choices.
By hiring Coastline Equity as your site team, you're not just getting an experienced team to manage your day-to-day work. You're also gaining a smart partner committed to guarding your asset and optimizing your income.
For more facts on how we can assist with your billboard lease negotiation or any other site care needs, please call (310) 373-0602.