When Saving Costs You the Lease: Why the Lowest Price Isn’t Always the Best Choice for Commercial Real Estate Signs
In commercial real estate, first impressions matter. For many potential tenants, the first encounter they have with a space is not through a handshake or a brochure—it’s the sign out front. And if that sign is crooked, peeling, or partially torn apart by the wind, what message does that send?
Take a look at the image above. What was meant to be a professional “For Lease” sign promoting warehouse and office space is now a twisted, flapping piece of sharp metal, barely hanging onto its frame, a casualty of Calgary’s wind—and perhaps, a decision driven by price over quality.
The Pitfalls of Chasing the Cheapest Quote
This story is all too familiar in the commercial leasing world. A property manager, under pressure to reduce operating expenses, assigns
their assistant a simple task: “Find the lowest price for a sign.” No questions asked. No specs confirmed. No weather rating discussed. Just a quote and a go-ahead.
Weeks later, that “low-cost” sign is on display—printed on lightweight material, attached to an unreinforced wooden frame, and exposed to unpredictable Alberta weather. Within days, the wind gets the final say.
The result? A sign that doesn’t just fail—it actively repels.
A poor-quality sign is more than an eyesore—it’s a red flag. To passersby, it suggests:
- A lack of professionalism.
- Disregard for maintenance.
- Possible neglect of the property itself.
Commercial real estate signs are marketing tools. When done right, they create interest, trust, and legitimacy. When done wrong, they communicate the opposite—and cost you leads.
The Hidden Costs of Going Cheap
That “bargain” sign may seem like a win on paper, but what happens when:
- You have to replace it in weeks?
- You miss calls because the number is unreadable?
- A serious tenant passes by and dismisses the listing?
These indirect losses can easily outweigh the $100 or $200 you saved upfront.
And consider the bigger risk: a poorly installed or damaged sign can fall, injure someone, or cause property damage—exposing you to liability and legal claims.
Value Over Price
Investing in a durable, professionally built commercial sign means:
- Weather-resistant materials (ACM or coroplast).
- Secure, reinforced installation using a backer sheet of plywood.
- Clear, UV-protected graphics if you want it to last long term.
- A design that reflects your brand’s professionalism.
It means treating your listing with the same care you expect your tenants to show your space.
Conclusion: Cheap Is Expensive
The sign in the photo tells a story most commercial landlords want to avoid. It’s a reminder that in business—especially in commercial real estate—the lowest price often carries the highest risk.
So, before you approve the cheapest quote, ask yourself:
Is this sign going to represent my property, or ruin its first impression? Looking for the best commercial real estate signs, learn more here.