Higher end interiors, outdoor space, basically any upgrade raises the costs.  

There are still hard money lenders that are active, but there has been a huge push over the past few years as more and more people flocked into this space.

Although places like WeWork and such may have not gone about the flexible work environment model in the correct way there is certainly something to be said for still wanting an office space, but a more shared or less permanents lease model would certainly be attractive to many startups....including myself! 

Yes, reaching out via email/text/phone is nice, but I find it very easy to get buried in day to day life once things relax. 

When searching for a rental, I am typically only looking at properties with at least 3 bedrooms or enough space for a 3rd bedroom.

I would say, from a leasing perspective, unless you're in a downtown core type area, the retail space is harder to lease.

However, many fail to recognize much less understand how a small confined or even large space without adequate ventilation/dilution air can result in death of people subjected to elevated levels of carbon monoxide in the air they breathe.

I believe I provide the most value in the 5-50 unit multifamily space, so it's my goal to move clients into that arena as quickly as possible.

I'd love to connect you if you need help getting to know folks in the investing or lending space. 

@Colin Smith and Brent Bowers usually host an excellent meetup at third space.