EPISODE DESCRIPTION In this episode, Art and Hailee discuss an optometrist in Austin whose construction bids came in far higher than expected—only to discover the landlord’s work letter left out critical components of the space. With no HVAC, no electrical panel, no drywall, and no concrete slab, the tenant was facing tens of thousands in [...]
EPISODE DESCRIPTION Optometry owners often assume that once drawings are complete, their project is ready for construction — but this case study shows how misleading that assumption can be. In a major remodel, an optometrist received drawings that appeared complete but lacked essential engineering, specifications, and phasing details, resulting in contractor bids ranging from $850k [...]
This episode dives into a cautionary tale every optometrist should hear. When a doctor tried to absorb a subleased suite next to his office, he unknowingly triggered a renegotiation of his entire lease—adding years of commitment without securing concessions, build-out improvements, or long-term protection. Antonis breaks down how landlords structure these situations, what most healthcare [...]
Before you sign your loan or construction contract, make sure you know what the bank is really asking for. Art and Antonis unpack how miscommunication between lenders and contractors can cause major budget surprises—and what every optometrist should know to stay in control of their project costs. A must-listen for anyone planning a new optometry [...]
What factors make one optometry practice thrive while another struggles to grow? In this episode, Antonis joins Art and Hailee to unpack the elements that shape ROI — from first impressions and location visibility to patient service and technology. They explore how aesthetics, accessibility, and consistent care all play a role in attracting and retaining [...]
When opening an optometry office, one of the toughest early questions is whether to finalize your lease or your loan first. This episode explores the risks of each option, how lenders view lease commitments, and what sequence sets your practice up for success.
Temperature consistency is key for both patient comfort and equipment performance in an optometry practice. This discussion highlights how incomplete HVAC planning and installation can leave you with persistent hot and cold spots. We unpack the importance of detailed system specifications, the role of third-party verification, and why thorough contractor vetting matters as much as [...]
In this episode of How to Open a Veterinary Practice, host and veterinary startup expert Hailee Hobbs sits down with Artin Safarian, President of Arminco, to talk about the mistakes no one thinks they'll make—until they do. From misleading timelines to hidden costs, Hailee and Artin dive into real-world examples of what can go wrong [...]
Antonis and Art break down one of the most important real estate decisions every new optometry practice owner faces: retail vs. office space. They explore how your business model, revenue goals, and growth plan should guide your choice—and why blindly following industry trends can be a costly mistake. Learn how square footage affects lease terms, [...]
Welcome to the premiere episode of ASK Practices: Optometry Edition — your go-to educational podcast for all things optometry practice development. In this episode, Host Antonis Alexandris and Co-Host Artin Safarian lay the foundation for what it really takes to open a successful optometry practice. From site selection and lease negotiations to design, buildout, and [...]
