If you’ve spent time in the coworking world—either as a freelancer, startup, or remote team—you’ve probably heard stories of spaces closing unexpectedly or rates jumping overnight. I’ve learned that one of the best ways to avoid these headaches is to look for owner-occupied coworking spaces—spaces where the operator also owns the building.
Why does that matter? A lot, actually. Here’s why:
1. Flexible Terms & Personalized Service
In an owner-occupied coworking space, you’re not just dealing with a middleman who’s managing a lease—you’re working directly with the person who owns the building. That kind of setup creates room for real flexibility. Whether it’s pricing, contract length, or what type of space you need, there’s often an opportunity to shape things in a way that actually fits your needs. You can have an honest conversation, make adjustments as your schedule or team changes. It feels more human, more collaborative—like the person across the table actually cares about your success. You get to be part of something that’s adaptable and personal. It’s not just about renting a desk; it’s about building a relationship.
2. More Stability, Fewer Shutdowns
One of the biggest risks with traditional coworking spaces is that they lease the building they operate in—so if the rent spikes or the landlord changes plans, the coworking space might shut down with little notice. That instability gets passed down to the members, who suddenly have to scramble for a new office.
At Coworking on 15th Ave, that’s not a worry. Because Eric owns the building, he’s not dealing with unpredictable rent hikes or lease renewals. That ownership creates long-term stability—not just for him, but for all of us working here. I know I’m not going to show up one day to a “closed” sign on the door.
3. Stronger Community Culture
When owners are present and invested in the space, they tend to care more about the people using it. They’re often physically on-site, curating events, listening to member feedback, and building a real sense of community. It’s not just about filling desks or maximizing profit—it’s about creating a place where people want to come to work every day.
Eric isn’t just a name on the lease—he’s in the building, chatting with members, organizing get-togethers, and genuinely checking in on how everyone’s doing. That kind of presence makes a big difference in how connected people feel. When the space feels like a community, not just a workspace, it’s easier to stay motivated, collaborate, and enjoy showing up every day.
4. Better Maintenance & Upgrades
If something breaks, owner-operators are typically quicker to fix it. There’s no third party to get approval from or budget constraints tied to an external lease. Plus, since they’re investing in their own building, improvements tend to be more thoughtful and long-term—like better internet infrastructure, more ergonomic furniture, or eco-friendly upgrades.
5. Locally Owned, Community Focused
Many owner-occupied coworking spaces are locally owned, meaning your rent supports a small business in your community. That’s a huge contrast to big-box coworking brands, where decisions are made in a corporate office miles (or states) away. This often translates to more authentic spaces, better customer service, and a stronger connection to local professionals and events.
At 15th Ave, it’s clear this space was built with Phoenix in mind. Eric knows the neighborhood, supports local businesses, and understands what people here actually need in a workspace. You’re not just renting a desk—you’re working at an office that’s invested in the city and the people in it.
Bottom Line:
Owner-occupied coworking spaces offer more than just a desk—they offer security, flexibility, and a real sense of belonging. If you’re looking for a coworking environment that’s built to last and genuinely cares about its members, look for the ones where the owners are all in—literally.
Coworking on 15th Ave is a perfect example of this in action. Shoutout to Eric for creating a space that just feels right—supportive, consistent, and rooted in the local community.