Lease or buy a commercial space?

[Account Closed]

Hello. I have an idea for my community that is needed. I want to create a co-working space like @work for business people to collaborate, network, rent private offices, have a short term lease (part time), coffee bar, printers, WIFI, conference room, etc. 

I have a few buildings that can suit this idea. What would you suggest in regards to bring the building or start small and rent? A few building I would need to build to suit. Others may really work well but need cosmetic work.

Which ever way I choose I am looking for financial backing to accomplish this goal. Thank you for your time answering. 

[Ronald Rohde]

I'd lease first. Unless you can get commitments and deposits from people, you need a lot of tenants to cover the nut of overhead. if you lease, you make a narrower spread, but much less risk. Proof of concept, second location you can buy or you can look for a building instead of renewing.

These businesses often fail, you don't want an empty office that you own...