Like an apartment lease, or car lease, you will probably need to pay a deposit or maybe 2 months rent up front. Then it is just month to month.

If you should go out of business, you are still responsible for the remainder of the lease. Make sure you have the right to sub-lease, in case your business fails. If you can sub-lease, then you can find someone with any approved type business to take over your remaining lease period. Generally, you are still responsible, should they default. The leassor has the right to screen the sub-leasee, but cannot withhold approval of a legitimate business that would normally be appropriate for the space.

Sometimes, being incorporated will save you if you go out of business, but most leases for first-time business owners will require a personal guarantee, as well as a corporate signature. Only desperation on the part of the lessor, or stellar negotiating skills on the part of the leasee will avoid a personal guarantee.