offer-to-lease-expert

What is an Offer to Lease?

Offer to Lease = Preliminary agreement documenting key business terms BEFORE drafting the full formal lease. Sets framework for negotiations and lease preparation.

Purpose:

• Lock in key deal terms early
• Create exclusivity period for tenant
• Document understanding before incurring legal costs
• Provide framework for landlord's form lease

Alternative names: Letter of Intent (LOI), Term Sheet, Heads of Agreement, Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)

Binding vs Non-Binding

CRITICAL DISTINCTION: Most offers to lease are non-binding on the business terms but binding on specific provisions (confidentiality, exclusivity, good faith negotiation, deposit).

Standard Structure