I started a search for an office. I don't need much space. Something between 400 - 1000 SQFT. I am coming across prices at .75 per/sqft to 2.50 per/sqft. They all seem negotiable. Is that considered cheep? Is it expected to get cheaper with this economy?

For members to answer your question you need to provide more information. What's considered "cheap" space in NYC may be considered grossly inflated in another market. Even within the same market, different factors such as accessibility and the quality of the space will affect the pricing. You might want to consider speaking with a local realtor.

If I were you, I would look for co-working space or something similar to "launchpad nola" (Google it) in your area. You could potentially find a business incubator or something that has some free space.

.75 to 2.5 per/sqft sounds reasonable depending on the amenities available.

Do you have a Loopnet account? I did a quick search on Loopnet for Fullerton using 400-1000 sf/offic space and quickly found 33 properties. When you expand to the surrouding area, 100 properties come up showing availability bet. 400-1000 sf.

As far as the rent goes, 0.75/sf/mo - 2.50/sf/mo is a pretty big spread. In my market, we quote rates as price/sf/year, and if you convert the numbers it translates as $9/sf/yr - $30/sf/yr, which I think illustrates the spread better.

Also, I'm in Philly so I can't really tell you what a good rate is, you'll need someone local. Also, the rate will be higher or lower based on the location, the size of the space, the quality of building (class A, B, C), quality of tenants, occupancy rate, how the space will be delivered (turn key, vanilla shell, etc.), and the type of lease (net, gross, etc.).

Good luck...