• Is the site convenient for staff, suppliers and customers? The Government hopes the new towns will have well-thought out transport systems but you still need to think carefully about the geographic fit
• Will the premises enhance your business's reputation? Your customers may not mind visiting a bleak industrial site or they may feel happier dropping in to a trendy waterside loft conversion. Neighbours are equally important to your image
• Which other businesses are moving in? Competition can be healthy - unless it's a giant that can deal you a knock-out blow. There may be some businesses that will fit in well with yours. If you're a picture framer moving next to an antiques warehouse might be helpful, for example
• What are the expected demographics of the new development? Your local authority should be able to tell you their predictions. If there are likely to be families this is vital information if, for example, you run a nursery. The prospect of single people working elsewhere won't be helpful if you run a sandwich shop that relies on lunchtime trade. Remember, though, statisticians can be wrong
• Once you've found a site you think might be suitable visit it several times - preferably at different times in the day. This is particularly important if you're a retailer because you will probably rely on passersby
• Before you invest a lot of time researching an area find out whether there are any restrictions that might stop you trading. Some retail parks, for example, are specific about the type of shops they will allow to open there

What type of property?

Once you've established that the area could be good for your business you need to decide on the type of property you want. Business Link, the Government's one-stop advice shop, suggests you draw up a "spec" of what your workplace should have. Distinguish between "essentials" and "added bonuses".

Your spec might cover:

• size and layout of the premises
• style and image - inside and out
• special structural requirements - such as high ceilings, soundproofing or reinforced floors
• facilities for staff and visitors such as good lighting, toilets, kitchen area and parking (including deliveries)
• power and drainage, and any special requirements - for example, three-phase electricity to drive motors and other machinery
• permission to use the premises for your business
• flexibility to alter the building in the future

You also need to decide whether you will lease the property and whether to share it with one or more other businesses. Buying is more risky because you are tying up cash and ownership brings more red tape and responsibilities.

Circulate the spec to commercial agents or ask local surveyors if they know of suitable properties. Your local authority, Business Link, Chamber of Commerce or your trade association are also worth asking. Keep an eye on local newspapers and specialist trade magazines and papers. Search the internet and be aware of "for sale" and "to let" signs.

Useful links:

Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors
English Partnerships (the national regeneration agency)
Property Managers Association
Valuation Office Agency (for information of business rates)