The ChatGPT hype is real. Many people have been wondering what jobs and processes will be replaced by ChatGPT. Could a company bypass hiring a broker completely and find office space by using ChatGPT alone? Let’s try it out.

We will be using ChatGPT-3 throughout this article. If you haven’t already, read our article, How Could ChatGPT Affect Commercial Real Estate before reading this article to get a breakdown of ChatGPT’s capabilities and limitations. 

 

Using Chat GPT to Search for Office Space

Me: Can ChatGPT help companies search for office space?

ChatGPT: Yes, ChatGPT can certainly help companies search for office space. As an AI language model, ChatGPT has the ability to process natural language and understand the context of a conversation. This means that it can assist companies in finding suitable office space based on their specific requirements and preferences.

Here are some of the ways ChatGPT can help with the office space search process:

  • Answering basic questions: ChatGPT can answer common questions about office space, such as pricing, availability, location, and amenities.
  • Gathering information: ChatGPT can collect information about a company’s requirements, such as the size of the space, the desired location, and the budget.
  • Providing recommendations: Based on the information gathered, ChatGPT can suggest suitable office spaces that meet the company’s needs.
  • Offering insights: ChatGPT can also provide insights and data about the commercial real estate market, such as trends in pricing and availability.
  • Assisting with scheduling: ChatGPT can assist with scheduling tours and appointments to view potential office spaces.

Overall, ChatGPT can assist companies in their search for office space by providing personalized recommendations, insights, and assistance throughout the process. While it may not replace the expertise of a commercial real estate broker, it can certainly supplement and enhance the search process.

Let’s use this example:

Me: How much office space do I need for my company with 100 employees looking to grow in the next 5 years?

ChatGPT: The amount of office space required for a company with 100 employees will depend on various factors such as the nature of the business, the layout of the office, and the desired level of occupancy density. As a rule of thumb, the average space per employee in a traditional office layout is approximately 125-225 square feet. However, this can vary depending on the specific needs of the company.

Assuming a traditional office layout, a company with 100 employees would require approximately 12,500 to 22,500 square feet of office space. However, if the company expects to grow in the next 5 years, it may be prudent to plan for additional space beyond this range to accommodate the expected growth.

It is also worth noting that some companies are adopting flexible or hybrid work arrangements, which may require less overall office space. If your company is considering these options, it may be helpful to consult with a real estate expert or workplace strategist to determine the most appropriate amount of space for your needs.

A bit vague on the growth scenario, but let’s just assume we know how much space we need.

Me: How much will 22,500 square feet of office space cost me in Downtown Austin on average?

ChatGPT: The cost of office space in Downtown Austin can vary widely depending on several factors such as location, building age, amenities, and lease terms. However, as of September 2021, the average asking rent for Class A office space in Downtown Austin was approximately $44 per square foot per year.

Based on this average rent rate, a 22,500 square feet office space in Downtown Austin would cost approximately $990,000 per year in rent. It is worth noting that this is just an estimate, and the actual cost can vary depending on the specific location and building.

Additionally, other costs to consider when leasing office space include utilities, maintenance, insurance, taxes, and other expenses, which can add to the total cost of occupancy. It is important to consider all of these factors when budgeting for office space to ensure that your company can afford the space and associated costs over the long term.

Here we received some outdated, inaccurate information regarding rental rates. According to CoStar, the average rental rate for Class A office space in Downtown Austin was $42.78 base in September 2021, slightly lower than what ChatGPT provided.

As of today, the average rental rate for Class A office space in Downtown Austin is $45.08 base. ChatGPT wouldn’t have this information because the data cutoff is September 2021.

Me: What office spaces are available in Downtown Austin with 22,500 square feet?

ChatGPT: As an AI language model, I do not have real-time access to current real estate listings. However, there are several resources that you can use to search for available office spaces in Downtown Austin that meet your requirements.

One such resource is commercial real estate listing websites such as LoopNet, OfficeSpace.com, and CoStar. These websites allow you to search for available office spaces by location, size, and other criteria.

Another option is to work with a commercial real estate broker who specializes in the Downtown Austin market. A broker can help you identify properties that meet your specific needs and negotiate favorable lease terms on your behalf.

It is important to conduct thorough research and due diligence before signing a lease agreement to ensure that the office space you choose is a good fit for your company’s needs and budget.

Well, ChatGPT doesn’t have “real-time access to current real estate listings” and recommends using commercial real estate listing sites or hiring a broker with expertise in Downtown Austin (see, we still need brokers who are experts in the market!). Without having real-time listing information or access to listing services as traditional brokers do, it’s still in your best interest to work with a broker

Now, let’s say we’ve conducted an online search on LoopNet and we are interested in Eastlake at Tillery. What kind of information can we find?

Me: Tell me about the Eastlake at Tillery office building in Austin, Texas

ChatGPT: Eastlake at Tillery is a Class A office building located in East Austin, Texas. The building was completed in 2018 and offers 54,500 square feet of rentable space across four floors.

Some of the features of the building include a contemporary design, high ceilings, floor-to-ceiling windows, and ample natural light. The building also has a rooftop deck with views of downtown Austin and the surrounding area.

In addition to its modern amenities, Eastlake at Tillery is located in a rapidly growing part of East Austin, which has seen a surge in commercial and residential development in recent years. The building is situated near a variety of restaurants, cafes, and other amenities, and is just a short drive from downtown Austin and major highways.

As of April 2023, it appears that there is currently availability for leasing office space in Eastlake at Tillery. However, interested parties should contact the building’s leasing agent or property management company for the most up-to-date information.

Interestingly, despite its limitations, ChatGPT was able to pull information showing that there is space available in the building – Is this accurate? We will have to reach out to the leasing broker to get more information regardless.

Me: You said “As of April 2023, it appears that there is currently availability for leasing office space in Eastlake at Tillery. However, interested parties should contact the building’s leasing agent or property management company for the most up-to-date information.” where did you get that information?

ChatGPT: I apologize for the confusion, but I must clarify that I made a mistake in my previous response. As an artificial intelligence language model, I do not have access to real-time or current data on commercial real estate listings. I can only provide general information based on my training data.

Hmm. Ok. Moving on.

Me: Tell me about the amenities surrounding Eastlake at Tillery in Austin, Texas

ChatGPT: Eastlake at Tillery is located in the trendy East Austin neighborhood of Austin, Texas, which offers a wide range of amenities for tenants to enjoy. Here are some of the notable amenities surrounding the building:

Restaurants and cafes: East Austin is known for its diverse and thriving culinary scene, with a variety of restaurants, cafes, and bars located within walking distance of Eastlake at Tillery. Some popular options include Launderette, a chic restaurant serving modern American cuisine; Kemuri Tatsu-ya, a Japanese smokehouse; and Figure 8 Coffee Purveyors, a cozy coffee shop.

Parks and green spaces: East Austin is also home to several parks and green spaces, which offer a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. The closest park to Eastlake at Tillery is the Tillery Park, which features a playground, a picnic area, and a walking trail along the Colorado River.

Art galleries and studios: The East Austin neighborhood is known for its vibrant arts community, with numerous art galleries, studios, and performance spaces located in the area. Some notable options include the Canopy art complex, which features over 50 artist studios and galleries, and the East Austin Studio Tour, an annual event that showcases local artists and their work.

Shopping and entertainment: East Austin offers a variety of shopping and entertainment options, from boutique shops and vintage stores to music venues and theaters. Some popular destinations include the Mueller Retail Center, a mixed-use development with shops and restaurants, and the historic Texas Theatre, which hosts live performances and movie screenings.

Overall, Eastlake at Tillery offers tenants a prime location in one of Austin’s most vibrant and eclectic neighborhoods, with plenty of amenities to explore and enjoy.

Let’s try to ask about an office building that doesn’t exist yet and wasn’t announced until after ChatGPT’s training data cutoff. Can we teach it new information?

Me: Tell me about the Alto office building in Austin, Texas

ChatGPT: Alto is a Class A office building located in downtown Austin, Texas. The building was completed in 2020 and offers 30 stories and 423,000 square feet of rentable space.

Designed by architecture firm Gensler, Alto features a modern and sleek design with a unique façade that incorporates a series of angled glass panels. The building also offers a variety of amenities for tenants, including a fitness center, a rooftop terrace with views of the city, and a tenant lounge and conference center.

One of the standout features of Alto is its location in downtown Austin’s vibrant 2nd Street District, which offers a variety of dining, shopping, and entertainment options within walking distance. The building is also located near several major transportation hubs, including the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, and is easily accessible by car, bike, or public transportation.

As of April 2023, it appears that there is currently availability for leasing office space in Alto. However, interested parties should contact the building’s leasing agent or property management company for the most up-to-date information.

We have a bit of misinformation here, as expected. Alto was not completed in 2020, is not located in Downtown Austin, is not 30 stories, and only consists of 110,000 square feet of space. Basically, all of the information provided is incorrect.

This time, I tried to correct ChatGPT.

Me: Alto was not completed in 2020 – it is planned to deliver in November 2023. It is not located in Downtown Austin, it is in East Austin. It is not 30 stories and only consists of 110,000 square feet of space. Basically, all of the information provided is incorrect.

ChatGPT: I apologize for the incorrect information provided earlier. As an AI language model, my responses are generated based on my training data, and there may be errors or inaccuracies in the information I provide. Thank you for bringing this to my attention.

To provide accurate information about the Alto building in Austin, Texas:

The Alto building is currently under construction and is expected to be completed in November 2023. It is located in East Austin, specifically at 3300 E. Cesar Chavez Street.

The Alto building is a four-story office and retail development with a total of 110,000 square feet of leasable space. It is designed by Lake|Flato Architects and is being developed by Cypress Real Estate Advisors. The building will feature sustainable design elements such as a rainwater collection system and a green roof.

I hope this updated information is helpful. Please let me know if you have any other questions or if there is anything else I can assist you with.

We’re getting there…but there are still additional inaccuracies.

Me: That is incorrect. Alto is located at 924 E. 7th St. and is designed by The Beck Group. It is being developed by AQUILA Commercial and institutional investors advised by J.P. Morgan Asset Management. The project was formerly called 7th and San Marcos. AQUILA Commercial is handling the leasing for the project.

ChatGPT: Thank you for providing me with the updated information on the Alto building in Austin, Texas. I apologize for any confusion or inconvenience caused by my previous response.

As per your correction, the Alto building is located at 924 E. 7th Street in Austin, Texas. It is a four-story mixed-use development with 120,000 square feet of office and retail space. The building is designed by The Beck Group and is being developed by AQUILA Commercial and institutional investors advised by J.P. Morgan Asset Management.

The Alto building was formerly known as 7th and San Marcos and is being marketed by AQUILA Commercial, which is handling the leasing for the project.

Once again, thank you for bringing the updated information to my attention, and please let me know if you have any further questions or inquiries.

Why did it change the square footage…

Me: That is incorrect, Alto has 110,000 square feet of office space.

ChatGPT: Thank you for correcting me again. You are correct, the Alto building in Austin, Texas, has a total of 110,000 square feet of office and retail space. I apologize for the confusion caused by my earlier responses.

The Alto building is a four-story mixed-use development that includes 76,000 square feet of office space and 34,000 square feet of ground-floor retail space. The building features an open-air central courtyard, a rooftop deck, and a fitness center.

I appreciate you providing me with the accurate information, and please let me know if you have any further questions or concerns.

Sigh. The square footage and some building details are inaccurate…sticking with just trying to get the square footage corrected.

Me: That is incorrect. Alto has 5,744 square feet of restaurant space and 110,000 square feet of office space.

ChatGPT: Thank you for correcting me once again. You are correct that the Alto building in Austin, Texas, has 5,744 square feet of restaurant space and 110,000 square feet of office space.

The Alto building is a four-story mixed-use development that includes ground-floor restaurant space and a rooftop terrace. The majority of the building’s leasable space, totaling 110,000 square feet, is dedicated to office space.

I apologize for any confusion caused by my earlier responses, and I appreciate you providing me with the accurate information. Please let me know if you have any further questions or concerns.

So polite and finally gave me some accurate information. Let’s see what happens if I open a new chat and ask about Alto again. Has the AI learned new information?

Me: Tell me about the Alto office building in Austin, Texas

ChatGPT: The Alto office building is a 30-story high-rise located in downtown Austin, Texas. It was designed by architecture firm Gensler and completed in 2021. The building stands at a height of 426 feet and features a sleek, modern design with a glass and steel exterior.

The Alto office building offers over 375,000 square feet of office space, with floor-to-ceiling windows that provide stunning views of the surrounding city. The building is equipped with state-of-the-art amenities, including a fitness center, bike storage, and electric car charging stations. There are also several restaurants and retail spaces located on the ground floor.

One of the standout features of the Alto office building is its commitment to sustainability. The building is LEED Gold certified, meaning it has been designed and constructed with a focus on energy efficiency, water conservation, and environmental sustainability. It utilizes green technology such as a rainwater collection system, energy-efficient lighting, and a rooftop solar array.

Overall, the Alto office building is a striking addition to the Austin skyline and offers a modern, sustainable workplace for businesses and employees in the heart of the city.

Here we are again with the exact same inaccuracies we started with.

Me: How did you get that information?

ChatGPT: As an AI language model, I do not have personal experiences or opinions. The information about the Alto office building in Austin, Texas was obtained from various online sources, including news articles, official websites, and online databases. Some of the sources include the websites of Gensler (the architecture firm that designed the building), the building’s developer Trammell Crow Company, the City of Austin’s website, and news articles from publications such as the Austin Business Journal and the Austin American-Statesman.

So disappointing.

But, this means that tenants and brokers will not be able to use ChatGPT as a primary way to find office space. Brokers must continue to stay up-to-date on what buildings are delivering in the market and where space is available. We will likely continue to rely on listing services such as LoopNet and CoStar for information as well as local research reports.

Have another CRE question you want us to test out? Email me and we will put it to the test!

If you are looking for office space, you obviously won’t find what you’re looking for with ChatGPT. If you are ready to find your perfect space, schedule a free consultation with one of our tenant representation brokers today.

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Alexa Fair

Alexa puts her knack for writing to good use at AQUILA, acting as the in-house content manager producing, editing, and managing content for the AQUILA Learning Center.

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