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The city says that it is trying to make it easier to do business in Saratoga. With that in mind, it has started an online available-lease directory on its website. At the click of a button, people wanting to start businesses or those looking for available properties can have information at their fingertips.
"We decided that we could really utilize the No. 1 tool for most people [the web]. We wanted all of our commercial properties highlighted and contact information readily accessible to make the search for a new business owner all the much easier," said Danielle Surdin, the city's economic development coordinator.
The website gives a general overview of properties available in the city. A click on a map showing the commercial areas in the city gives details like the area available, leasing details, contact information for the property owner and photographs of the property.
"Many people call daily looking for commercial space, whether it be office, retail or service. I refer to our online service daily, and prospective business owners are able to get an overview of Saratoga and all the different commercial centers that might meet their needs," said Surdin. "Should they find a particular site they are interested in, they can find leasing information as well as directions."
Matt Abrams, who owns commercial property around Cox and Saratoga avenues, said he endorsed the idea of the listing of opportunities available on the city website. "It is a good idea. It won't hurt the city," said Abrams. He said the idea would be more successful if the Saratoga Chamber of Commerce website had a link to the page.
Abrams said that many business owners who are looking for commercial property in cities sometimes contact the Chamber of Commerce first. He said that he was looking to build some more buildings as soon as the rents had recovered. Abrams said that he looked forward to using the site.
Surdin said that there had been no move so far to link the site to the Saratoga Chamber of Commerce website.
As of now, the site will be updated quarterly. Once a property becomes fully leased, it is removed. Commercial brokers would notify the city once a particular commercial space is filled. "Some prefer to leave the information on the web even if it is fully leased because some space may become available," said Surdin.
To check the online available lease directory, visit www.saratoga.ca.us and click on the business section.
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