Suite Opportunity

hello!

an opportunity arise for me about two weeks ago and I accepted the offer. I live in Florida btw. Basically there’s a barbershop that moved into a bigger space and has a separate area (with its own bathroom) and tv. They were looking for hairstylists to join and rent. The first month is free and then slowly they’ll increase the rent to 150, 175.. until about 300. The owner said he’d work with me until I’m settled and comfortably able to pay the rent. He would not put any schedule or take any commission other than rent. He doesn’t have the chair, mirror or anything like that. But he said since he’s a barber and does not know much about long hair, it’s free range for me. He told me he’ll get the chair and the mirror (I’ll help him choose) and the decor is up to me. The shop is on the main busy street of a touristy town. He has mentioned that he’s received many calls regarding if there was a hairstylist in the shop hence his ad on the job website.

About me: I’ve been in the industry for 2 1/2 years and I have not consistently gained a clientele because I have moved areas and jobs. It has taken me a while to find what I enjoy doing within the industry and I realized I rather much be my own boss, create my own schedule etc. this sounds like a dream opportunity because it has a suite feel but inside a shop that I can also take the overflow of male customers, since I enjoy barbering as well. I plan on keeping my current job and starting at the suite on the weekends, and also to fund the investments I’ll make into the suite/area. I will balance the two things until I feel comfortable enough to quit my primary job and be behind the chair full time.

Here are my questions:

what type of contract should be drawn up in order to protect myself? (There’s a set price in rent and a guarantee that the area is mine to rent; without randomly hiring someone else for the space) I would prefer to not share the space at all. At least for the first year. I do not want to invest my time and money for something to fall apart so I’d like to be protected legally.

What things should he provide and what things should I provide (to start)?

These are the questions and concerns I have for now, if there is anything else I need to consider please let me know! This is an exciting opportunity but I want to make sure it’s a smart decision to go on board.