Common area maintenance charges are a part of occupying leased commercial real estate space. However, while the landlord is generally in the driver's seat, there could still be room for you to strategically manage your CAM expenditures and potentially save some money. Here are some tips to keep in mind both when you're negotiating a lease and when you're occupying space.

There are three things to remember CAMs -- alternatively referred to as common area maintenance or common area management charges. First, they're really a form of rent. Second, they don't only apply to common areas. Third, they can be a significant part of your total occupancy cost. Read on to learn more about the CAM, how it impacts you and how to manage it.