There are many issues to consider when choosing a location for your party center, and since there is no universal rule, its important for you to figure out how the location will contribute to the future success of your business.

One of the most frequently asked questions is about the minimum height requirement in order to house the inflatable moonwalks. The reply is always the same: as high as you can get in a good location, for a good lease price. Do not increase your rent cost just to gain 2 feet of ceiling space. There are many centers that are successful with only a 16 foot max height. If you can find 18-20 foot height, it makes your choice of inflatables to use easier. Locations vary for jump centers. Most centers tend to be located in flex space or light industrial. These spaces tend to have a lower rent with higher ceilings in the back. You can find them near warehouse areas and even a street or two behind large shopping centers like Wal-Mart. I see more and more jump centers appearing in malls and prime retail areas. If you choose this type of area, verify it’s in your budget; the rent will be much more expensive.

The ultimate building choice is to buy or build verses leasing. If this is your goal, try to buy/build a building with extra space to lease. Let a tenant help you pay the mortgage.

Below are 24 questions you should answer for each of the sites you’re considering to help you decide on the best location for your jump center:

1. Is the facility in a visible location?
2. Is the facility large enough for your center? Does it offer room for all the retail, office, storage, jump rooms or party rooms you need?
3. Does it meet your layout requirements?
4. What is the zoning? Check & double check this!
5. Does the building need any repairs or upgrades? The fewer the better!
6. Will it meet your local requirements for ADA Accessibility Guidelines?
7. Is it insulated to help control heating/cooling expense?
8. Do the existing utilities-lighting, heating and cooling-meet your needs or will you have to do any rewiring or plumbing work? Is ventilation adequate?
9. What utilities are included? Will sewer be an issue?
10. Are the lease terms and rent favorable?
11. Is the location convenient to where you live?
12. Can you find a number of qualified employees in the area in which the facility is located?
13. Do people you want for customers live nearby?
14. Is the area heavily dependent on seasonal business?
15. Is the facility consistent with the image you’d like to maintain? What was it used for before?
16. Is the facility located in a safe neighborhood with a low crime rate?
17. Is exterior lighting in the area adequate to make parents and children feel safe?
18. Will insurance be prohibitively expensive?
19. Are neighboring businesses likely to attract customers who will also patronize your business?
20. Are there any competitors located close to the facility? If so, can you compete with them successfully?
21. Is the facility easily accessible to your potential customers?
22. Is parking space available and adequate? Is it easy to enter and exit?
23. Can suppliers or vendors make deliveries conveniently at this location?
24. If your business expands in the future, will the facility be able to accommodate this growth?