Young & Co. builds new offices in Ingram Woods

by Steven Diegel

SBJ Contributing Writer

The choice of leasing vs. buying can prove a difficult decision for many smaller businesses, which must weigh losing capital in monthly payments against risking considerably in a purchase which may or may not reap dividends down the road.

Young & Company, a longtime local advertising agency, decided the time had come to make the move and get what it wanted. The result is a new 3,000-square-foot, one-story office building in the Ingram Woods Office Park, at 1615 S. Ingram Mill Road.

Tom Young, owner of the agency, said a number of factors influenced him in making the decision to build a new facility.

"I looked at several existing buildings before I came to the conclusion that I wanted to build my own," Young said. "It was easier getting what I wanted with no wasted space and no compromises."

Other available structures all had one drawback or another, ranging from the overall layout, a less-professional appearance, problems with the structure or equipment, and even the monthly price.

By starting from scratch, Young said, he knows exactly what he is getting from the ground up, settling concerns over problems that might develop in an older building after the purchase.

"I found, looking at existing buildings, that you never know what you are getting ÐÐ problems with heating or air, problems with the roof, problems with other equipment," he said. "This way you are more certain of where you stand and what you are getting."

And since much of the materials and equipment are brand new, warranties should take care of any problems that arise in the near future.

But mainly, Young said, he was simply tired of leasing a structure and not gaining any equity for the future. Most of the materials utilized by the business computers, furniture, and so forth do not retain much of their value, Young said.

"In the advertising business, there is not a lot of opportunity to build equity in anything, which leaves a building as one of the only good investments for the future," he said.

The resulting brick structure will feature a number of modern features and amenities, including vaulted ceilings, skylights and an entry foyer, and 15 spacious rooms, including conference and break rooms for the agency's 10 employees.

"It is secluded, wooded and kind of relaxing," Young said of the new building's setting. "It has a very professional atmosphere without a lot of retail traffic coming and going."

The move is also believed to be the first for an advertising agency in the Springfield area. Traditionally the industry has been located in leased office space, remodeled buildings or even homes.

"I think this is the first time a Springfield advertising agency has built an office building from the ground up," Young said.

Young said he is pleased with the decision, both with the structure and the investment it represents.

"It is just a good investment," he said. "Springfield is a growing area with a healthy economy, and an investment in real estate is a good investment."

The move-in date at the new location was slated for April 1.

PHOTO CAPTION:

Owner Tom Young said he sees building his own facility as an investment.[[In-content Ad]]