When you sign a lease, your company takes on a contract to pay rent and, potentially, CAM charges. You also agree to pay any number of hidden occupancy costs. If you don't know what they are, you could be in for a large and expensive surprise. Here are some of the hidden costs that are in your lease -- whether or not you know it.

Recent developments in the commercial real estate world could make it seem like leasing is becoming a less attractive choice. An ongoing climate of low interest rates make purchasing less expensive while skyrocketing property values in some markets could make it seem like if you don't own, you're missing out on an opportunity to participate in appreciation. At the same time, changes in lease accounting standards are removing some of the financial benefits of leasing.

Commercial real estate is a game that rewards companies that have strategic visions and that look beyond the near term market and their near-term conditions. In this industry, the right perspective isn't a luxury. It's a bankable commodity that can save you thousands -- or millions of dollars per year. Here are four tips that give you both sides of important issues in leasing and that can help to clarify your vision.

The choice between owning and renting commercial real estate might seem to be a daunting one. However, it comes down to three factors -- what it costs up front, what it costs over time and the suitability of the space and the occupancy structure over the long term.