Meeting #1 with Space Owner

Yesterday, we meet with the owner of the space we are hoping to rent for Cafe Evoke. As we have said, this space is in need of some major reconstruction to give it some atmosphere so we have been trying to figure out just what that would all cost and how we could afford a space that was almost 1000 square feet bigger than what we really wanted to have (the space is 2400 and we wanted between 1500-1800) In all honesty, I was a bit nervous going into this meeting not know what he would say when we told him we would not be ready before September to take over the lease and I didnt' want to lead on that we still have not talked with any banks about lending. (although our financials have been sent to our banker on our board of advisors). The owner was very helpful and even said he would love to split the space for us if he can figure out how to do it correctly, giving us 1400 square feet of space and the patio area that we hope to build. THis was great news for us because this will be the perfect size and will be cheaper rent than what we had planned for. Construction costs will also be cut in half based on our projections. (more on some of these numbers as we go forward) Joe, the owner, told us he would probably extend us two free months of rent for construction if he goes with us in the space. There is another business that is interested but we are confident that the space will work for us if it is supposed to. We are going to continue finding other locations until we hear back. Things are looking up for us here in Bozeman, Montana and we are running ahead with our plans. ~~be bold