In this article, you'll learn:

• How the COVID-19 pandemic has shifted negotiating power to tenants
• Why commercial landlords are offering flexible lease terms and rent relief
• Opportunities for tenants to negotiate favorable lease terms and perks
• The importance of working with a tenant rep to secure the best deals

During the current COVID-19 pandemic, fewer rents are being paid, and landlords no longer hold the cards. In a recent interview with Scott Simon of NPR, Robert Fransen is taking it easy on his commercial tenants. While the government is slowly reopening the economy, business is slow, especially for companies that are tagged to be non-essentials. Robert Fransen is a commercial landlord who operates a number of retail properties. According to him, only 50% of his tenants were able to pay rent in May. It was even lesser in April when only 30% paid their rents.