Introduction
Start-up business TheraFit London was born from a bold idea – combine fitness and therapy under one roof.
Founders Liliya Korallo, a psychologist, and her sister Irina, a fitness instructor, needed the right space to bring their vision to life – but navigating the complex commercial property market in London proved challenging.
That’s where our Property Advice Services stepped in.
Background
Before launching TheraFit London, Liliya ran City Psychological Services, and Irina led her own brand, Irina Fitness. Together, they envisioned an integrated wellness centre focused on both physical and mental health.
Although experienced in their respective fields, they faced difficulties with:
- Finding and securing an appropriate property in London
- Understanding lease negotiations
- Navigating Business Rates and Rate Relief
- Meeting legal, safety and compliance requirements
They realised expert help would be crucial to move forward confidently and compliantly.
Property Advice Services expert team supported them throughout the process of identifying, evaluating, and securing a suitable business premises, helping turn their vision into a reality!
Enter the Property Advice Services
While pitching at a UCL event, Liliya was introduced to our Property Advice Service through a referral from Grow London (part of the London Mayor’s office). This marked the beginning of a valuable partnership.
“ We gained a much clearer understanding of the practical, legal and safety considerations involved in taking on a business premises. Rather than navigating an unfamiliar process alone, I had access to guidance and specialist support as new challenges arose.”
The outcome
The first promising location, in Highbury & Islington, fell through after a lengthy negotiation process. The landlord ultimately accepted a higher offer. This setback nearly derailed the sisters’ plans—until PAS team helped them regain focus and restart the search.
The outcome
Just a month later, after following the advice, Jeremy secured a reimbursement from the landlord for a year’s rent, and he has been considering trying to secure an additional few months’ worth due to losses incurred by the closure caused by the construction.
As a result of our help and rent refund, the business was able to not just survive, but also create four new jobs at the newly opened New Cross kiosk.
“I learned a lot because, like I said, I had no idea that there were lots of things that we need to take into consideration.”
They were able to progress from finding a potential property to exploring the next steps around safety, heads of terms and lease negotiations — with greater knowledge, confidence and access to the right expertise when they needed it.
If you’d like to work with us to explore how to find a new premises, negotiate heads of terms and learn about safety please reach out to us by clicking the button below.