Q4 is around the corner. If you’re not already planning, you’re behind.

Now is the time to set your real estate strategy before year-end. Whether you’re preparing for an acquisition, facing a lease renewal, or considering a relocation, the window to act is already narrowing. Waiting until December limits your options. September gives you time to move with focus.

Here’s how to use September as your planning springboard.

1. Evaluate Your Lease Timeline

If your lease is set to expire in the next 12 to 24 months, now is the time to start evaluating your options. Landlords are making budget decisions, planning improvements, and finalizing their own year-end strategies. That means you may have more leverage—or fewer options—depending on your timing.

A proactive approach gives you flexibility to renegotiate on favorable terms, explore alternative properties, or plan a buildout without rushing.

2. Identify Gaps in Your Real Estate Portfolio

For growing practices or multi-site operators, September is the right time to assess how well your current locations serve your long-term goals. Are there geographic gaps? Is patient demand shifting toward different neighborhoods? Have staffing patterns or referral sources changed?

By analyzing performance across sites, you can determine where to double down—and where to make adjustments. If acquisition or disposition is on the table, Q4 can be a smart window to prepare for a spring transaction cycle.

3. Set Clear Capital Goals

Whether you’re planning to invest, expand, or restructure, aligning your real estate strategy with your capital plan is critical. Are there opportunities to free up cash through a sale-leaseback? Will a lease renewal require significant tenant improvement funding? Should you budget for permitting or design services in Q1?

September is when those numbers need to come into focus.

4. Prepare for Provider and Patient Shifts

Healthcare delivery is becoming more decentralized. Outpatient volumes continue to rise, and many providers are seeking space that supports specialty care, better parking, or upgraded patient amenities. If your space no longer reflects how you deliver care, or what your patients expect, it may be time to consider a relocation or interior upgrade.

Planning now ensures you have enough lead time to evaluate buildout options, zoning issues, and fit-out timelines.

5. Get Expert Insight Early

Real estate decisions rarely exist in a vacuum. They affect staffing, patient experience, and long-term financial health. If you’re weighing a move or renegotiation, bring in your real estate advisors early. A strong partner will help you understand the market, avoid costly surprises, and develop a strategy that aligns with your clinical and business goals.

Ready to plan for 2025? September is your window to set a strong foundation. Let’s talk strategy before the year closes.

👉 Contact Healthcare Realty Group to start the conversation.