Miami Commercial Real Estate News June 5, 2024: 3,200-Unit Live Local Act Project Proposed for West Little River; Wynwood 48-Story MXU Planned; More….

Live Local Project With 3,233 Residential Units Proposed in North Part of Miami-Dade

Plans have been submitted to Miami-Dade reviewers for a massive Live Local project. The project is named The HueHub or Holland Park. It is planned to include: 3,233 residential units 57,260 square feet of retail 4,249 parking spaces Multiple towers are planned, with the tallest topping off at 37 stories. The property currently has one-story buildings with residential, office…

3,200-unit project in West Little River marks Miami-Dade’s biggest Live Local Act proposal

A developer wants to build a 3,233-unit Live Local Act project in West Little River, marking the largest proposal under the affordable housing legislation in Miami-Dade County and likely all of South Florida. The proposal is for six towers reaching up to 37 stories on an 11.7-acre site at 8400 Northwest 25th Avenue in unincorporated Miami-Dade County, according…

Civic Center Metrorail Station Could Be Renamed UHealth Jackson Station Under Marketing Deal

A proposed naming rights deal would see a Metrorail station renamed for decades to come. The station currently known as Civic Center would become UHealth Jackson Station. UHealth would pay $120,000 per year for the naming rights, with increases of 2% per year. They would also be required to cover the costs of updated wayfinding throughout the Metrorail system. The deal…

Condos Now Being Proposed At Jungle Island, Along With Park

The leaseholders of Jungle Island are proposing to build condos on the property, according to a statement released to the Herald. The land is owned by the City of Miami, and leased to the operator of Jungle Island for a theme park. ESJ Capital Partners and Terra are in talks with the city to allow the condo project on five acres of the property. ESJ took over the lease from…

North Corridor rapid rail transit still a 12-year wait

Don’t plan to ride North Corridor rapid rail to Hard Rock Stadium until 10 years after World Cup games are played there in 2026. The long-awaited North Corridor is expected to open in 2036, Nilia Cartaya of the Florida Department of Transportation told the Citizens’ Independent Transportation Trust last week. The trust oversees county transportation tax receipts…

Miami-Dade taxable property values rise in double digits again

As evidence of Miami-Dade’s real estate strength, estimated taxable values of county properties rose by double digits again this year, the third consecutive year of 10% or more gains. This year’s June 1 estimate of annual growth of taxable values was exactly 10%, following last year’s estimate of 12.3% and a 10.2% estimated rise in 2023. Totals are likely to change when official figures…

Miami Beach moves to speed construction of convention hotel

The Grand Hyatt Miami Beach Convention Center Hotel continues to be atop Miami Beach’s project list as plans for the long-awaited hotel advance. Commissioners passed at first reading last month a resolution amending the city code to “authorize the review and approval of certain requests for funding from the Redevelopment Trust Fund of the Miami Beach Redevelopment…

Miami Beach ponders a homeless drop-in center

Miami Beach is mulling options to provide a nighttime drop-in center for homeless and vulnerable populations. A referral to the Public Safety and Neighborhood Quality of Life Committee passed unanimously in this month’s city commission meeting for the “administration to explore and provide options for establishing a nighttime drop-in center in Miami Beach,” says the item’s…

South Dade bus rapid transit coming ‘sometime’ in 2025

The trust that approves transportation tax spending and is one of three funders of the first new Miami-Dade rapid transit corridor asked last week when South Dade’s bus rapid transit will finally open and was told only sometime “in the first part of 2025.” County transportation head Eulois Cleckley could not be pinned down to a narrower time range when passengers…

Blackstone Proposes 128,000-SF Warehouse In Miami Airport West Distribution Area

Amid an ongoing shortage of industrial space, investment giant Blackstone (BX) plans to build a 127,655-square-foot distribution center in Miami-Dade County’s Airport West distribution area. Link Logistics, Blackstone’s industrial unit, has asked county officials to build the warehouse in an unincorporated area near Miami Springs and Medley, areas northwest of Miami International…

Morabito’s Wynwood office-retail project lands $35M construction loan, as office market slows

Morabito Properties advanced its Wynwood office-retail project with a $35 million construction loan, as looming doubts over the neighborhood’s office market viability persist. The Miami Beach-based development firm dropped $14.6 million for the Wyncatcher II project development site at 2150 Northwest Miami Court in Miami, according to Morabito’s spokesperson.

WeWork out: Co-working giant closing outpost in Miami Beach in bankruptcy restructuring

WeWork wants to scrap its South Beach co-working space. The firm, which filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy restructuring in November, put the branch at 429 Lenox Avenue in Miami Beach on the chopping block, according to a notice WeWork filed in court on Thursday. The closing would be the first Miami-Dade County outpost WeWork wants to scrap as part of its restructuring plan.

Back to the voters: Jungle Island owner proposing condo project with Terra

David Martin’s Terra is partnering with the owner of Jungle Island to redevelop part of the city-owned site into a residential project, The Real Deal has learned. The proposal hinges on voters approving the deal, possibly later this year. Jungle Island, a waterfront eco-adventure park on Miami’s Watson Island, would close if the project moves forward, sources told TRD.

Project Peach Four-Story MXU Breaks Ground In Overtown

A groundbreaking ceremony has been held for Overtown’s Project Peach, and construction is underway. According to a 2021 presentation, the four-story project was estimated to cost $2.6 million. The developer was requesting $1.3 million in financing from the Omni Community Redevelopment Association to help make it happen. The 2021 filing showed that Project Peach…

Photos: Construction Progress At Overtown’s Block 55

Overtown’s largest mixed-use project in decades is moving closer to completion, a photo shows. Across the street, the 36-story Atlantic Station tower is near top off. The first project is known as Sawyer’s Walk (previously Block 55). It is planned to include: 578 housing units, predominantly for low income seniors; 130,000 square feet of office space; 175,000 square feet of retail…

7410 LLC Proposes Two Projects for 7401 to 7425 Harding Ave and 7410 Collins Avenue in Miami Beach

Miami Beach’s Planning Board is scheduled to hear a proposal for a five-story, mixed-use project. Our sources indicate that, presently, the 30,000-square-foot site in question serves as a parking lot for the adjacent CVS. Yet, if approved by city officials, the new venture would require 60,000 square feet of new construction, with 38,805 square feet (64.7 percent) serving as office space….

Tri-Rail’s New One-Seat Express Service From Downtown Miami Begins July 1

Tri-Rail has announced the start date of a new express service from MiamiCentral that won’t require a change of trains. Service will begin July 1, 2024. The train will stop at just five stations: West Palm Beach Station Boca Raton Station Fort Lauderdale/Hollywood International Airport Station at Dania Beach Metrorail Transfer Station MiamiCentral Station Departure…

Community Meeting Planned To Discuss $83M The Underdeck

A community meeting to discuss The Underdeck is planned by the City of Miami tomorrow. The $83M project includes public park space underneath the new Signature Bridge in downtown Miami. A $60M grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation was recently awarded, the largest such award in Miami’s history. Miami commissioners voted recently to recommend…

Quest Expands Miami Coworking Footprint. Again.

Quest’s new Doral location has fully equipped board rooms. Image courtesy of Quest Workspaces Quest Workspaces has opened its second coworking space in Doral, Fla. The company leased 23,454 square feet of office space at Doral Center in December 2022. CBRE represented the owner, Banyan Street Capital, while Newmark represented the tenant in the negotiations.

31-Story Midtown 7 Gets FAA Approval To Rise 352 Feet Above Ground In Midtown Miami

Midtown 7, a 31-story mixed-use building planned at  3001 Northeast 1st Avenue in Midtown Miami, has recently received height approval from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and is progressing in the permitting process. According to a determination letter issued on May 22, the tower is approved to rise to a maximum height of 352 feet above ground…

Plans Filed for Wynwood’s Tallest Tower: 48-Story Mixed-Use Development at 2101 NW Miami Court

Plans for Wynwood’s tallest-ever tower have been filed. Currently known by its address, 2101 NW Miami Ct, the proposed mixed-use development, designed by Arquitectonica and developed by Wynwood Interest LLC, managed by Isaac, Jacobo, Simon, John, and Rosa Bazbaz, is set to rise 48 stories, or 490 feet above ground and 506 feet above sea level. The project would yield…

Juvia to open rooftop restaurant at Standard Residences in Midtown

Juvia Group inked a 15-year lease to open a rooftop restaurant at the Standard Residences, Midtown Miami, The Real Deal has learned. Carlos Rosso’s Rosso Development, Standard International and Alex Vadia’s Midtown Development are developing the 12-story, 228-unit building at 3100 Northeast First Avenue. It’s under construction and is expected to be completed…

Driftwood Capital Provides $34.8M Mezzanine Loan for Marriott-Branded Hotel Complex near Miami International Airport

Driftwood Capital has provided a $34.8 million mezzanine loan for the refinancing of Miami Airport Marriott Connection, a complex comprising three Marriott-branded hotels near Miami International Airport. Driftwood Capital provided a two-year loan with three one-year extension options on behalf of the borrowers, an affiliate of Cerberus Capital Management and Highgate…

Miami Design District billboard ban could have bigger implications for CRE

A billboard ban in Miami’s Design District did not cause a single-story office building in the chic neighborhood to lose millions of dollars in value, according to a recent court ruling. On May 20, six months after a week-long bench trial, Miami-Dade Circuit Court Judge Migna Sanchez-Llorens ruled that the city of Miami was not liable for property owner Karenza Apartments…

Digital Billboard Battle Just Getting Started; Fights still pending in court and at Miami-Dade County

What was thought to be a victory for the Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM) and the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts in a monthslong digital billboard debate has since turned into something quite different. Rather, the real battle has only just begun. In a recent reversal by the Miami City Commission at its May 23 meeting, the body voted to completely repeal…

Moderate Industrial Growth Can’t Stop Miami’s Enduring Appeal

In 2023 and continuing into 2024, Miami’s industrial sector experienced moderate growth due to reduced lease turnover, accelerating interest rates and economic uncertainty. However, the market’s strong industrial fundamentals and international connectivity via Miami International Airport and PortMiami continue to demonstrate its enduring strength and resilience.

Ira Giller planning mixed-use mid-rise in Miami Beach

Ira Giller wants in on his home city’s burgeoning office market. Gateway Group, the family-owned firm led by the Miami Beach architect and real estate investor, is planning a new $21.6 million mixed-use building with three floors of offices in the city’s Mid-Beach neighborhood. On Thursday, the Miami Beach Design Review Board approved Giller Tower, a seven-story…

‘Urbania NoMi 6th Ave’ Proposed for 12830 Northeast Sixth Avenue and 575 Northeast 127th Street in North Miami

North Miami’s Planning Commission will review a proposal for Urbania NoMi 6th Ave, a mixed-use development. Proposed by NoMi Holdings Group 2, the 11-story venture would feature 240 apartments, measuring about 695 to 1,070 square feet each. According to Colombia-based Continua Developments’ website, there would be 97 one-bedroom homes and 143…

Developer Sets Eyes on Imperial Club; $60M sought for rehab of Aventura retirement home

Developers are looking to soon purchase a 14-story senior living facility in Aventura known as Imperial Club. Located at 2751 NE 183rd St., Imperial Club is an assisted living facility that also offers accommodations for independent living. Darren Smith, president of Smith & Henzy Advisory Group, says the real estate development firm plans to convert the building to a completely…

Developer Plans 6-Story Hotel Tailored For Pilots At 4849 NW 36th Street Near Miami International Airport

A developer has proposed a new hotel for pilots just north of Miami International Airport in Miami Springs. The city’s Planning and Zoning Board was scheduled to review the site plan for the Pilot House Suites by Sucre LLC on the evening of May 28. The proposed development encompasses 1.13 acres of vacant land at 4849 Northwest 36th Street, 673 La Villa Drive…

Plans Unveiled For 28-Story Mixed-Use Development ‘Shoma 88’ In Kendall

Miami-based developer Shoma Group has announced plans for Shoma 88, a mixed-use development in Kendall. Designed by PPK Architects, this 28-story project will feature 405 rental units, each offering approximately 920 square feet of space. In alignment with Florida’s Live Local Act, at least 40 percent of the units will be designated for workforce housing.

Shoma plans 404-unit rental tower in Kendall, amid a Live Local Act bonanza

Shoma Group wants to build a 404-unit apartment tower with workforce housing in Kendall, amid a torrent of Live Local Act project proposals. The Coral Gables-based firm, led by married couple Masoud and Stephanie Shojaee, proposes a 31-story tower on a 1.9-acre site at 9525 North Kendall Drive in unincorporated Miami-Dade County, according to an application Shoma…

Construction Starts on ‘Wyn Ave’ and ‘W35’ in Miami’s Wynwood Arts District

South Florida-based ABH Developer Group has announced construction on two mid-rise buildings in Miami’s Wynwood Arts District. Here’s what we know. The larger of the two buildings is Wyn Ave, a six-story structure comprising 44 apartments, measuring about 425 to 875 square feet each. Our sources indicate that rent will start at $2,400 a month. Communal amenities…

Miami-Dade could lease 10 acres to Terra for workforce housing

Terra is seeking a deal to build up to 675 workforce apartments around South Dade Government Center through a ground lease with Miami-Dade County. The Miami-Dade Housing, Recreation, Culture and Community Development Committee will consider the ground lease for two sites for a combined 10.74 acres surrounding the government complex at 10740 S.W. 211th Street…

Affinius Capital Originates $70M Refinancing for Multifamily Community Modera Skylar in Miami

Affinius Capital LLC has originated a $70 million loan for the refinancing of Modera Skylar, a 263-unit apartment community in Miami. The borrower is a joint venture between Rockwood Capital and Mill Creek Residential. The property includes a 20-story building comprising 166 units and a 10-story building spanning 97 units. Modera Skylar features a mix of studio…

Caroline Weiss’ mother-daughter Blue Lagoon dev site feud ends

Caroline Weiss’ legal battle with her eldest daughter for control of a 7-acre development site in Miami’s Blue Lagoon district appears to be over. On May 29, the Third District Court Of Appeals affirmed a 2022 lower court ruling that dismissed Adeena Weiss-Ortiz’s 10-year-old lawsuit against her mother and entities that own the three-property waterfront assemblage on Northwest 7th St…

April 2024 Industrial Report: Miami Takes Lead in Rent Growth

At the same time, the U.S. industrial market maintained its upward trend in rent prices. In March 2024, national in-place rents averaged $7.85 per square foot, reflecting a robust 7.3% year-over-year increase. Notably, new leases signed in the last year commanded a premium by averaging $10.43 per square foot. However, the biggest story lies in Miami’s rise: After two years of dominance…

Plans for Live Local towers popping up across Miami-Dade

Bazbaz Development plans a 48-story building in Wynwood. These are just the latest development applications filed under the Live Local Act. The new state law, which incentivizes developers that incorporate workforce housing into their projects, was recently enhanced by the passage of Senate Bill 328. In exchange for setting aside at least 40 percent of the residential units in a project…

Miami-Dade OKs $182M for new county government building after controversy over previous above-market price

After residents raised concerns last year with Miami-Dade County’s plan to pay well-above market-value for a new government center, the commission approved a tweaked deal that dropped the price by around 11 percent. Miami-Dade plans to buy the six-story Flagler Corporate Center at 9250 West Flagler Street in the Fontainebleau neighborhood in an unincorporated…

Teachers Could Live Where They Work; New Brickell school going up to house school staff

There’s a new kind of development going up in Brickell. With granite countertops and a balcony, this building’s 600-square foot units will go for no more than $1,700 a month – not bad for a one-bedroom apartment in Miami these days. Just blocks away from a Metro station and Brickell City Center, this is just the kind of place where many of South Florida’s young professionals…

Marion to Close After Nearly a Decade in Brickell, Will Reopen as New Venue

After nearly a decade of throwing Thursday night soirées, iconic ladies’ nights with French flare, and serving America-Asian fusion cuisine to a crowd looking for an elevated night out, Marion in Brickell will close this summer. The dining and nightlife destination, which opened its doors in 2015 and paved the way for elevated Brickell restaurants to come, has announced it will close…

How 2 Miami Neighborhoods Have Grown To Outshine Its Urban Core

Executives at FIFA, international soccer’s governing body, were torn. They wanted to open a Miami office last year but couldn’t decide between a location in Coral Gables or at the Waterford Business District, a 250-acre office park near Miami International Airport. “If you’re trying to do something world-class and connect yourself to the city in preparation for the 2026 World Cup…

The Magic City’s Rise; An interview with Miami mayor Francis Suarez

Miami began styling itself “The Magic City” just a month after its incorporation in 1896. In recent years, it has lived up to the name, topping lists of the world’s most successful urban centers. As its staggering real estate prices, heavy traffic, stunning beauty, and aura of prosperity testify, Miami has been integral to Florida’s rise to the forefront of American life. As many cities…

BH partners with Prime on Hallandale Beach condo-hotel project

BH Group is partnering with Prime Group to develop a condo-hotel project in Hallandale Beach. The joint venture is now shopping for a hotel brand to reside in the proposed 14-story building at 804 South Federal Highway, according to Isaac Toledano, who along with his wife, Liat, leads Aventura-based BH. A site plan application for the development, which includes 138…

Cortland drops $63M for 240-unit Pembroke Pines rental complex, amid muted investment sales market

A Morgan Stanley asset manager sold the Harbour Cove apartment complex in Pembroke Pines for $62.6 million, despite cooling South Florida investment sales. Atlanta-based Cortland bought the 240-unit community at 1601 South Hiatus Road from Boston-based Eaton Vance, according to records and real estate database Vizzda. The buyer took out a $47.5 million Freddie…

Developer Advances With 620-Unit Residential Development Across 30.6 Acres At 1600 S. Park Road In Hollywood

Developer Park Road Development LLC is advancing with detailed plans for 30.6 acres of city-owned land in Hollywood five years after securing the bid for the property. The city’s Technical Advisory Committee is set to review the residential and commercial components proposed for 1600 South Park Road on June 3. Additionally, a concurrent land use amendment will require…

Trinity, Credit Suisse secure $575M refi for Hollywood’s Diplomat

Trinity Real Estate Investments and Credit Suisse Asset Management lined up a $575 million refinancing of the Diplomat Beach Resort in Hollywood. The joint venture is expected to close on a $452 million first-lien mortgage from Citi Real Estate Funding and German American Capital Corp. next week, according to a Kroll Bond Rating Agency report. TD Miami Beach Mezz…

R&B’s Gateway at Wynwood heads to foreclosure

Three years after completing Gateway at Wynwood, R&B Realty could lose the 14-story mixed-use building at a foreclosure sale set for next month. On May 28, Miami-Dade Circuit Court Judge Pedro Echarte Jr. granted final judgment in favor of Wilmington Trust NA as trustee for Boise-based A10 Capital, court records show. Two months ago, Wilmington Trust filed a foreclosure…

$84.4M Loan Secured For The Arcadian Mixed-Use Affordable Housing Project In Fort Lauderdale

Centennial Bank has provided an $84.4 million loan for The Arcadian, an 8-story mixed-use affordable housing project at 640 Northwest 7th Avenue in Fort Lauderdale. Designed by Behar Font & Partners and developed by Fuse Group in collaboration with Boca Paila led by Grupo Krea, the project will include 478 residential units, 15,000 square feet of retail space, and a 212,000 sf…

Fuse and Boca Paila land $84M loan to build Fort Lauderdale project

Fuse Group and Boca Paila recently broke ground on a Fort Lauderdale mixed-use project after scoring a $84.4 million construction loan. Centennial Bank provided the financing for The Arcadian, a planned $153 million complex of two eight-story buildings at 640 Northwest Seventh Avenue, according to a press release. The development consists of 480 apartments…

Church redevelopment is gospel in South Florida: 160-unit apartment project planned in Fort Lauderdale

Developers plan a 160-unit apartment project on an assemblage that includes the Shaw Temple AME Zion Church in Fort Lauderdale, as redevelopment of religious sites soars across South Florida. Tal Levinson and Eric Malinasky want to build a six-story building on a 1.3-acre property at 500, 506, 510, 522, 530 and 534 Northwest Ninth Avenue in the Dorsey-Riverbend neighborhood…

BBX Logistics, PCCP Break Ground on Delray Beach Industrial Park

The Park at Delray groundbreaking ceremony. Image by Marco Bell Photo, courtesy of BBX Logistics Properties BBX Logistics Properties and joint venture partner PCCP LLC have broken ground on The Park at Delray, a 40-acre campus in Delray Beach, Fla. Phase one of the project includes the development of a 200,000-square-foot building. The Park at Delray is taking shape…

Financial firms magnet? Here’s who leased at Steve Ross’ downtown West Palm office towers

South Florida’s office market prospered from an influx of companies over the past four years, pushing up rents to record rates and prompting developers to jump on projects. But now, as tenants pause expansion plans due to elevated interest rates and more expensive financing, some office owners and developers are feeling the sting of higher vacancies and a lack of preleasing.

The Pros and Cons of a Strong Economy for CRE 

In CRE, good and bad news come hand-in-hand. What’s bad for the retail sector might be good for warehouse performance; trends that put major metros at a disadvantage may be supporting success in suburbs or smaller cities.   The strong economy that we’ve seen over the last few quarters presents a similar scenario. Market conditions have no doubt been great for rents…

Video: RXR CEO Scott Rechler; There’s Been A Day Of Reckoning For Commercial Real Estate Nationally

The Conversation: Navigating the Financial Landscapel A Conversation on the Challenges and Opportunities Ahead In a revealing conversation, Scott Rechler, CEO and Chairman of RXR, joins Bloomberg Intelligence to delve into the evolving landscape of interest rates, debt, and real estate, painting a complex picture of the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

Industrial Property Trends For 2024

The likes of manufacturing facilities, warehouses, and distribution hubs have all been influenced by developments in technology, sustainability, and customer expectations. Insider looks at some of the trends that are shaping the industrial property space for 2024 and beyond. Smart warehousing. Isra Akhter is the senior consultant in the digital advisory team at CBRE.

Riding Out the Storm in Some Office Markets, Potential Opportunities

Across the United States, cities are grappling with an unprecedented crisis in the office sector, underscored by staggering drops in commercial real estate values. Recent reports have painted a grim picture, with total losses potentially reaching as high as $1 trillion. This downturn has been felt in many areas, including the California market, where large defaults in cities…

Video: Costar National Director of Office Analytics Phil Mobley Provides Office Real Estate Forecast, Discusses Performance & Cap Rates

An In-Depth Discussion on the Future of the Office Market: Insights from Phil Mobley, National Director of Office Analytics at CoStar Introduction In a recent conversation with Phil Mobley, the National Director of Office Analytics at CoStar, the host of America’s Commercial Real Estate Show delved into the complexities and current state of the office market.

More Pain to Come for Regional Banks Nationally

Regional banks and commercial real estate are inevitably linked. As commercial properties, most notably office space, work through the current crisis of sliding valuations and high interest rates, it is important for brokers to understand how intertwined these two sectors are in the current economy. The following are a few different ways of looking at the connection between…

Will RealPage face a long line of court cases?

Judging by the news these days, you might think that RealPage CEO Dana Jones is commercial real estate’s Public Enemy No. 1. Her company has certainly garnered plenty of negative publicity for its YieldStar Revenue Management software that collects data about rental units and then tells landlords how much they can charge for an apartment. I first wrote about the Texas-based…

Put It on Ice: Climate-controlled storage facilities are heating up the market

Modern climate-controlled facilities play an ever-greater role in the nation’s supply chain. America’s food processing, pharmaceutical and cold storage warehousing infrastructure continues to grow with a larger emphasis on just-in-time logistics and last-mile delivery. Brokers seeking financing for these projects, which can include new construction, retrofits, expansions and facility…

Debt service coverage ratios warn of office distress in some metros

The good news thus far for the beleaguered office real estate sector is that the surge of distress that many observers have predicted has yet to be actualized. The bad news, though, is that according to research from Yardi Matrix, many markets remain at risk of distress from offices that don’t have the income to cover their debt obligations. Debt costs for commercial real estate have…

The Fed’s Beige Book: Cautious Optimism in the Labor Market

The new Beige Book largely describes economic trends holding steady in the Southeast with slow overall growth as price pressures generally continue to ease and employers have a slightly easier time finding labor. This edition of the anecdotal report included a “community perspectives” section on conditions in low- and moderate-income communities that appears…

“Becoming a big issue”: Conflicts at condo, homeowners associations fuel insurance woes

In Pembroke Pines, the Heron Pond condo complex’s property insurer halted coverage in April, and the general liability carrier warned it won’t renew its policy when it expires in June. Near North Miami Beach, the Star Lakes condo complex’s board president said he expects this year’s insurance premiums to be about 45 percent more than the association paid in prior years.

Is Bank OZK overexposed to real estate?

When a Citi analyst downgraded Bank OZK from a buy to a sell, sending the stock price tumbling 17 percent, the news shook the industry. Normally, an analyst’s downgrade is not the center of real estate water cooler conversations. But OZK is arguably the most important bank in commercial real estate. It is watched more closely than any other bank, and for good reason.

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June 5, 2024

Video: RXR CEO Scott Rechler; There’s Been A Day Of Reckoning For Commercial Real Estate Nationally

The Conversation: Navigating the Financial Landscape; A Conversation on the Challenges and Opportunities Ahead

In this interesting, quick-paced, conversation, Scott Rechler, CEO and Chairman of RXR, joins Bloomberg Intelligence to delve into the evolving landscape of interest rates, debt, and real estate, painting a complex picture of the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. The discussion underscores the industry’s transition through the five stages of grief—moving past denial to acceptance—regarding the reality of persistently high interest rates and their far-reaching implications.

Interest Rates and Market Realities

The conversation opens with a reflection on the industry’s initial optimism last year when the Federal Reserve hinted at a more dovish stance. This optimism was soon replaced by a sobering acceptance that lower interest rates are not on the horizon. The industry now faces the daunting task of managing a trillion dollars of debt maturing this year, with another two trillion in the next three years. Much of this debt was financed at historically low interest rates, which are unlikely to return. Rechler uses a term I’ve not heard in a long while as he notes there is going to have to be a re-equitisation, with pain on the equity side and pain on the debt site. Re-equitisation is deleveraging with some debt exchanged for equity. Yeah, surely there will be some of that, particularly in some of the more troubled office markets.

The Impact on Banks and Commercial Real Estate

As institutions adjust to this new normal, they are busy taking appropriate marks and reserves. The discussion highlights the significant impact on banks, particularly concerning commercial real estate. U.S. pensions are already taking write-offs on commercial properties, and more banks are expected to face similar issues. The current scenario is starkly different from the 2008 crisis, where an injection of capital helped lift all values. Today, structural issues between interest rates and property values present a more complex challenge.

The Future of Office Buildings

The fate of office buildings, especially in the post-pandemic world, is a focal point of concern. Office spaces are undergoing revaluation due to interest rates and changing usage patterns. Some buildings are becoming competitively obsolete, necessitating careful selection and strategic adjustments. Banks need to reconfigure loans, equity holders must inject new capital, and properties must be chosen for their potential success in the new environment.

The Multifamily Sector: An Achilles’ Heel

The multifamily sector emerges as a critical concern, particularly for regional banks with heavy concentrations of such loans. Even if the credit quality remains good, many of these loans are underwater due to interest rate increases. Additionally, new supply entering the market exacerbates the situation, creating significant headwinds for the next few years.

Opportunities Amid Distress

Despite these challenges, the discussion also points to potential opportunities. This period could represent a generational moment to be a buyer in the market, provided one is selective and strategic. The key is not just having capital but also the capability to identify properties that can succeed. The approach should focus on creating value rather than relying on a return to lower interest rates.

Addressing the Housing Shortage

A critical issue highlighted is the housing shortage in the country, exacerbated by the financial crisis of the last decade. Conservative building practices post-crisis and the pandemic-driven home-buying frenzy have left the market with an estimated shortage of six million units. This shortage, coupled with less new construction, is expected to continue putting pressure on housing availability and prices.

Strategic Investment: The Digital vs. Film Analogy

In identifying investment opportunities, the conversation introduces the analogy of “digital” versus “film” buildings. “Digital” buildings are those designed for the modern era, fostering collaboration, accessibility, and engagement—qualities necessary for attracting tenants and ensuring success. The strategy involves investing in these digital properties, even if they have broken capital structures, and then fixing those structures to unlock value.

Conclusion

The conversation concludes with a nuanced view of the future. While there are significant challenges ahead, particularly with high interest rates and a looming debt crisis, there are also strategic opportunities for those willing to navigate the complexities. The key lies in selective investment, understanding the evolving market dynamics, and focusing on long-term value creation. As the industry continues to adapt, these insights provide a roadmap for navigating the financial landscape in the coming years.

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June 3, 2024

Video: Lynn McKee, Matt Delicata Discuss Commercial Real Estate Education at Georgia State University

The Discussion: Exploring Excellence in Commercial Real Estate Education at Georgia State University

In a recent episode of “America’s Commercial Real Estate Show,” host Michael Bull delved into the intricacies of commercial real estate education with two distinguished guests from Georgia State University (GSU): Lynn McKee, Director of the Master’s Commercial Real Estate Program, and Matt Delicata, Lecturer at the Robinson College of Business. This enlightening discussion highlighted the longstanding tradition and innovative approaches that make GSU a leader in real estate education.

A Legacy of Excellence

GSU’s commercial real estate program boasts a rich history dating back to the post-World War II era, making it one of the oldest in the nation. Initially part of Georgia Tech’s night school, GSU has grown into a significant educational institution, offering a variety of degrees in real estate. The program’s strength lies in its comprehensive curriculum, which includes a Bachelor’s in Business Administration with a real estate major, a Master’s of Science in Commercial Real Estate, and a PhD program focused on academic research and teaching. Additionally, the MBA program offers a concentration in real estate, catering to students pursuing broader business studies.

Bridging Academia and Industry

One of the standout features of GSU’s real estate program is its integration of academic rigor with practical industry experience. The program employs a hybrid teaching model, where students benefit from the expertise of seasoned real estate professionals alongside esteemed academic faculty. This combination ensures that students receive both theoretical knowledge and real-world insights. McKee and Delicata, with their extensive backgrounds in banking and development respectively, exemplify this approach. Their real-world experiences enrich classroom discussions, providing students with practical perspectives on industry challenges and opportunities.

Flexible and Accessible Learning

The Master’s in Commercial Real Estate program at GSU is particularly noted for its flexibility and accessibility. The hybrid format allows students to attend classes either in person or online, catering to those in different locations or with varying schedules. This flexibility has enabled the program to attract a diverse cohort of students, including international participants from South Korea and Nigeria. The structure of the program, which follows a cohort model, ensures that students progress through the curriculum together, fostering a collaborative learning environment.

Preparing for a Dynamic Job Market

The current real estate job market presents challenges, but also unique opportunities for growth and innovation. McKee emphasized the cyclical nature of the real estate market, noting that downturns, like the current one, are often followed by periods of recovery and growth. This cyclical understanding is crucial for students as they prepare to enter the workforce. The program’s curriculum is designed to equip students with essential skills, such as proficiency in Argus and Excel modeling, which are highly valued by employers. Additionally, courses in investment, development, and entrepreneurship prepare students to navigate and capitalize on market fluctuations.

A Strong Network and Support System

GSU’s location in Atlanta, a major hub for real estate, offers students unparalleled access to industry professionals and opportunities. The university’s extensive alumni network further enhances job prospects for graduates, providing valuable connections and mentorship. The program also emphasizes practical experience through internships and real-world projects, ensuring that students are well-prepared to transition into their careers.

Looking Ahead

With a commitment to expanding its programs and adapting to industry needs, GSU is poised for continued growth. The addition of new faculty members and the emphasis on hybrid learning formats are strategic moves to accommodate more students and enhance the learning experience. McKee and Delicata are optimistic about the future, aiming to increase the cohort size and further integrate industry expertise into the curriculum.

In conclusion, Georgia State University’s commercial real estate program stands out for its blend of historical significance, academic excellence, and practical industry engagement. For those seeking a robust education in commercial real estate, GSU offers a compelling and comprehensive pathway to success.

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June 2, 2024

Video: BOMA President & COO Henry Chamberlain on the History of BOMA International

A Conversation: The Evolution of BOMA: A Century-Long Journey in Building Management

Henry Chamberlain, a notable figure in the building management sector, recently shared an insightful historical overview of the Building Owners and Managers Association (BOMA). Founded in 1907 as the National Association of Building Owners and Managers (NABOM), BOMA has grown into an international powerhouse within the commercial real estate industry. Chamberlain serves as its President and COO and has been with the organization for nearly a third of its existence from 1907 to today.

The origins of BOMA are rooted in the early 20th century, a time when local associations in the Midwest sought to collaborate on building operations. These associations aimed to share knowledge on various aspects of building management, such as elevator maintenance costs and optimal staffing levels. This collaborative spirit led to the establishment of several foundational standards. By 1915-1916, BOMA had developed a standard method for floor measurement and introduced the Experienced Exchange Report in 1920 to capture vital operating data.

BOMA’s advocacy efforts have been a cornerstone of its mission since its inception. Early on, the organization tackled significant issues like federal energy policy and tax regulations. While headquartered in Chicago for many years, BOMA’s federal advocacy efforts took on a new dimension when the organization moved to Washington, D.C. in 1975. This relocation enabled BOMA to engage more directly and personally with federal policymakers, enhancing its influence and effectiveness.

In 1968, recognizing its growing international reach, BOMA rebranded from NABOM to BOMA International. This change reflected the organization’s expanding footprint, which included the establishment of BOMA Canada, BOMA Japan, and other global entities like the Property Council of Australia. This international growth has been a testament to BOMA’s enduring commitment to the global commercial real estate sector.

BOMA’s influence extends beyond advocacy into recognizing and promoting excellence within the industry. The creation of the TOBY (The Outstanding Building of the Year) Awards in 1985 marked a significant milestone in highlighting industry best practices. This initiative was further bolstered by the BOMA 360 program in 1999, which focuses on high-performance buildings. Recently, BOMA has integrated the BOMA BEST program from Canada into the U.S. market, underscoring its leadership in sustainability. For 17 of the past 18 years, BOMA has been recognized with the Energy Star Partner of the Year award, a clear indicator of its commitment to sustainable building practices.

BOMA’s organizational history is also marked by strategic evolutions and acquisitions. About 80 years ago, BOMA spun off the National Apartment Association, a move that allowed it to focus more sharply on commercial real estate. Some local groups, like AOBA in Washington and BOMA Wisconsin, continue to manage both commercial and residential properties. Recently, BOMA acquired BOMI International, an organization it had collaborated with for 54 years, to enhance its educational and training platforms further.

Chamberlain, who has served as BOMA’s president for a significant portion of its history, expressed pride in the organization’s growth and its pivotal role in the commercial real estate industry. As BOMA continues to evolve, it remains dedicated to advocacy, education, and providing essential business tools, solidifying its position as a leader in the field.

This historical perspective not only highlights BOMA’s rich legacy but also sets the stage for its continued influence and leadership in the future.

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June 2, 2024

Video: Costar National Director of Office Analytics Phil Mobley Provides Office Real Estate Forecast, Discusses Performance & Cap Rates

An In-Depth Discussion on the Future of the Office Market: Insights from Phil Mobley, National Director of Office Analytics at CoStar

Introduction

In a recent conversation with Phil Mobley, the National Director of Office Analytics at CoStar, the host of America’s Commercial Real Estate Show delved into the complexities and current state of the office market. The discussion covered various aspects, including market performance, geographical trends, lease dynamics, and future opportunities. Phil Mobley provided a comprehensive analysis of the office market as it stands at the end of the first quarter of 2024, offering valuable insights into what the future might hold.

Conversation is About Office Property Nationally

Note that the conversation was national in scope, thus observations can apply less or even not at all to Miami and other South Florida markets. Most notably, the significant stress in office properties felt in major markets like New York and San Francisco has not been felt in Miami.

Current State of the Office Market Nationally

Phil Mobley began by addressing the overall performance of the office market. He noted that the headline statistics still appear troubling, with vacancy rates continuing to rise. The first quarter of 2024 saw nearly 20 million square feet of negative absorption, pushing the overall vacancy rate to 13.8%, a record high. Mobley emphasized that the challenges are not uniform across the market, as location, quality, and the type of business occupying the space significantly impact performance.

Geographical Trends

Geographically, major markets are experiencing the most strain, primarily due to the nature of the companies occupying these spaces—large Fortune 500 and Fortune 1000 companies with extensive footprints and multiple locations. Central Business Districts (CBDs) have been hit particularly hard, although suburban areas are also feeling the pressure due to a slowdown in employment growth, especially in professional services, banking, finance, and technology sectors.

Lease Dynamics

One of the notable trends Mobley highlighted was the reduction in average lease sizes. Over the past year and a half, new leases have been approximately 15-20% smaller than those in the late 2010s. This reduction reflects companies’ efforts to rationalize their footprints in response to the hybrid work environment. Companies are consolidating into pre-existing locations or moving into owned spaces, driven by the flexibility offered by new technologies that support remote and hybrid work.

Tenant Activity and Market Fragmentation

Despite the overall gloomy picture, tenant activity has shown some signs of recovery. The number of leases signed has remained relatively stable compared to pre-pandemic levels, albeit with smaller space requirements. Mobley pointed out that this increase in activity is encouraging but can be misleading, as many leases are for shorter terms and smaller spaces.

The market is highly fragmented, with significant differences in occupancy rates and tenant behaviors across different types of properties. Smaller suites in less premium buildings often have higher occupancy rates, while larger, more prestigious properties struggle with underutilization.

Opportunities for Investors and Occupiers

Phil Mobley sees several opportunities in the current market conditions. For owner-occupiers, there are favorable conditions to purchase office buildings at attractive prices. The significant reduction in new supply, which Mobley predicts will fall off a cliff in the next 18-24 months, presents a unique opportunity for developers and investors who can identify underserved markets or submarkets with a dearth of premium space.

He also highlighted the potential for distressed asset acquisition. The downward pressure on rents, particularly in markets like San Francisco, San Jose, and Seattle, where early signs of rental market resets are already visible, could offer attractive entry points for investors willing to navigate the complexities of distressed properties.

Office Property Cap Rates and Value Trends

Discussing cap rates, Mobley noted a significant divergence in market behavior. While medical office buildings and single-tenant net lease offices have seen moderate increases in cap rates, institutional-grade properties, particularly those facing distress, are experiencing more pronounced value declines. This divergence underscores the importance of evaluating each property on its merits, considering factors such as future income stream risk and tenant stability.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, Phil Mobley emphasized the importance of understanding the nuances of the office market. While challenges remain, especially for large multi-tenanted buildings in major markets, there are also significant opportunities for savvy investors and occupiers. The key is to navigate the market with a clear understanding of the specific dynamics at play, whether it’s the potential for owner-occupied acquisitions, the strategic development of new supply, or the careful selection of distressed assets.

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May 30, 2024

Miami Commercial Real Estate News May 29, 2024: Wynwood Tallest Ever Planned Under Live Local Act; Elle-Branded Tower Launched in Edgewater; More…

Terreno Realty Completes 186 KSF Industrial Facility in Hialeah

Among Terreno Realty Corp.’s recent additions to its industrial portfolio is this 112,000-square-foot facility in Redondo Beach, Calif., which it acquired last year for $45.7 million. Image courtesy of CommercialEdge Terreno Realty Corp. has completed Countyline Corporate Park Phase IV Building 40, a 186,000-square-foot facility in Hialeah, Fla., a Miami submarket.

Art + Tec, partner pick up Edgewater assemblage, as South Florida dev site purchases continue

Developers picked up a 0.7-acre assemblage in Miami’s Edgewater, as South Florida development site purchases continue, despite elevated interest rates and macroeconomic headwinds. Bay Harbor Islands-based Art + Tec Development, led by Gabriel Boano, and partner Silvio Caprino bought the five adjacent lots at 2650 Biscayne Boulevard and 250 Northeast 27th Street…

‘Century Park Villas Place’ to Yield Homes by Year’s End at SW 332nd Street and Krome Avenue in Homestead

Construction has started on Century Park Villas Place, a townhome development in Miami-Dade County. Our sources indicate that the venture will comprise 45 three-bedroom and four-bedroom townhomes, with square footage ranging from 1,351 to 1,610 square feet each. There are four floorplans named Gabriela, Alexa, Karina, and Isabella. Costing $394,990 to $420,990…

Miami Multifamily Market Holds Steady Despite Challenging Market Conditions

Miami’s multifamily sector was on fire from the end of 2020 through the beginning of 2023 as the market received a wave of newcomers, primarily from affluent Northeastern and Western states. During the height of the pandemic, roughly $1 out of every $6 in income that moved nationwide relocated to Florida, more than any other state. And Miami-Dade County saw the…

Wynwood’s Tallest Ever Tower Planned Under Live Local Act

Plan’s for Wynwood’s tallest-ever tower have been filed with Miami’s Planning & Zoning reviewers. For now, the development is known by its address, 2101 NW Miami Ct. It is proposed to rise 48 stories, or 490 feet above ground and 506 feet above sea level, and include: 544 residential units two floors of amenities on levels 9 and 10 19,292 square feet of ground floor retail 621 on-site…

Bazbaz proposes 48-story Wynwood project –– area’s tallest –– under Live Local Act

Bazbaz Development wants to build a 48-story apartment tower in Wynwood under the Live Local Act, marking the tallest project proposed for the Miami neighborhood. The firm filed an application for a 544-unit project on a 1.5-acre assemblage at 2110, 2118 and 2134 North Miami Avenue, as well as 2101, 2129 and 2135 Northwest Miami Court, according to city records.

Developers launch Elle-branded condo tower in Miami’s Edgewater

Elle Residences Miami would be built on the half-acre site at 3618 Northeast Fifth Avenue, which also fronts Northeast 36th Street and I-195. Urban Network is led by CEO Robert Thorne and Vertical is led by CEO Fernando de Nuñez y Lugones, a former development sales executive at One Sotheby’s International Realty and Fortune International Group. The 25-story, 180-unit…

Biscayne Boulevard hotel-residential tower advances

A new hotel and residential tower, along with office and commercial space, is proposed for busy Biscayne Boulevard in Miami’s Edgewater neighborhood. Owner-developer Green Circle Development LLC plans the new building at 3200 NE Biscayne Blvd. The overall project will have 523,318 square feet of floor area and include 108 lodging units, 110 residential units, about 5,000 sf…

Miami Beach hunts for ways to resurrect Roosevelt Theater

Miami Beach commissioners want the city’s administration to reach out to help resurrect the long-shuttered Roosevelt Theater that opened 75 years ago, either for a movie house or some other use that will spur 41st Street activity. Commissioners have voted unanimously to have a conversation with the property owner of the Roosevelt at 770 Arthur Godfrey Road…

Coastline-Nakash Capital Group Revises Plans for ‘the Eden’ at 3550 NW S River Drive in Miami

A Miami developer has revised plans for a mixed-use venture east of Miami International Airport (MIA). Florida YIMBY first reported on this project in October 2023. Previously, the multi-building “Eden” was to host 720 apartments, along with 7,851 square feet of retail and 821 parking spots. However, after receiving feedback from city officials, the project has been scaled back.

Coral Gables City Commission Approves Ponce Park Residences At 3000 Ponce De Leon Boulevard

The Allen Morris Company, led by Allen and Spencer Morris, has received commission approval for their luxury condominium project, Ponce Park Residences, slated for development in Coral Gables. Located at 3000 Ponce de Leon Boulevard, at the intersection with University Drive, this development is poised to become a significant architectural addition to the city.

Miami An Appealing Apartment Market Despite Challenges

As an apartment investment market, Miami has its pros and cons. Strict building codes, high insurance premiums, and the threat of natural disasters are among the latter. However, a new report from Freddie Mac on the area concludes that many residents and investors believe that the potential after-effects of climate-related disasters are well mitigated to justify that uncertainty…

Taurus Development Proposes 15-Story ‘Valencia Tower’ for 11888 SW 220th St in SW Miami-Dade’s Goulds Neighborhood

Our sources point to a 321,330-square-foot mixed-use venture in Miami’s Goulds neighborhood. The proposed Valencia Tower would measure 15 stories above grade, featuring 159 apartments, with 25 percent (about 40) reserved as workforce housing. The Real Deal reports that to qualify as workforce housing in Miami-Dade County, homes would be targeted at those…

Miami Worldcenter scores $120M refi, as South Florida still bucks nationwide lending slump

Miami Worldcenter landed a $120 million refinancing, showing South Florida continues to buck the nationwide lending slump. Entities tied to the project’s master developer, Miami Worldcenter Associates, obtained the refinancing for six lots at the 10-block development, with Deutsche Bank serving as administrative agent for itself and other lenders, according to records.

60-Story ‘Summit Brickell’ Gets FAA Clearance To Rise 765 Feet Above Ground

Summit Brickell, a planned mixed-use development at 1015 Southwest 1st Avenue in Miami’s Brickell neighborhood, has recently secured Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) approval. Filed on April 5 and swiftly approved on May 21, the tower is approved to rise 765 feet above ground or 769 feet above sea level at its highest point. Designed by Corwil Architects and developed…

Lease roundup: West Palm’s Nora District scores tenants, Coral Gables’ Zucca restaurant moving

Developers of the mixed-use Nora District in downtown West Palm Beach scored four tenants. Cameron Mitchell Restaurants’ Del Mar, which offers Mediterranean cuisine, leased nearly 10,000 square feet of indoor space and a 2,000-square-foot patio; and Sana Skin Studio leased 1,800 square feet, according to the developers’ spokesperson. Women’s clothing and accessories store…

CGI Merchant’s Gabriel hotels in Miami, South Beach head to UCC foreclosure sales

CGI Merchant Group faces a double whammy in Miami-Dade County, with both of its Gabriel-branded hotels headed to foreclosure auctions. The two planned Uniform Commercial Code, or UCC, sales come as the South Florida real estate market is feeling the sting from elevated interest rates and skyrocketing insurance premiums. Yet, CGI Merchant, a Coconut Grove-based…

Blue Suede kicks it up, buys second Miami Beach hotel this month

For the second time this month, Blue Suede Hospitality picked up a small Miami Beach hotel, quadrupling its Art Deco portfolio in the city. An affiliate of New York-based Blue Suede, led by CEO Kenneth Lipschutz, paid $16.6 million for Blue Moon Hotel, a 75-key Art Deco property at 944 Collins Avenue, records and real estate database Vizzda show. The deal breaks down to $221,667…

31-Story Midtown Miami Apartment Tower Gets FAA Approval, Advances In Permitting

The Midtown 7 building planned in Midtown Miami has received height approval from the Federal Aviation Administration while making new advances in the permitting process. According to a May 22 determination letter, the tower is permitted to reach a maximum height of 352 feet above ground, or 367 feet above sea level. The developer is listed on the FAA letter as PPF AMLI…

Census: City Of Miami Population Grew Last Year By 1.3%

Miami’s population grew last year, according to newly released Census Bureau data. As of July 1, 2023, the City of Miami’s estimated population stood at 455,924. That is an increase from the estimate of 450,014 residents on the same date in 2022. According to an Axios analysis, Miami’s 1.31% growth rate in 2023 was one of the top ten for large cities in the U.S. last year.

Manoucheri Brothers boosts South Florida multifamily portfolio

Manoucheri Brothers bulked up its South Florida multifamily portfolio by adding a 153-unit apartment complex in Sunrise. An affiliate of the Los Angeles and Aventura-based family office paid $30.4 million for Summerfield Apartments at 3200 Northwest 84th Avenue, records and real estate database Vizzda show. The buyer also assumed a nine-year $18.3 million Fannie Mae…

Downtown Miami could use more businesses. $1 million in grant money is up for grabs

The Miami Downtown Development Authority wants to make downtown Miami an area where people can live, work and play — and it has one million ways it hopes to do that. With its new $1.1 million business incentive program, the Miami DDA will provide businesses with funding to develop and grow downtown. “We want to help mom-and-pop retailers open their businesses,” said…

Can South Florida Condo Demand Endure? Related Group’s Nick Pérez Weighs In

Condo demand across South Florida remains robust thanks to favorable tax policies, the influx of high-income households and a business-friendly environment. The limited single-family stock available is also pushing buyers toward condominiums, especially in waterfront and urban settings, according to Nick Pérez, president of the condominium division at The Related Group.

Self-checkout: Publix expands South Florida portfolio with $59M purchase of retail site anchored by its store

Publix pumped up its South Florida retail holdings by acquiring a shopping center anchored by one of its supermarkets. The Lakeland, Florida-based grocery chain paid $58.5 million for Ramblewood Square Shopping Center at 1201-1327 North University Drive in Coral Springs, records and real estate database Vizzda show. The seller, an affiliate of New York-based…

Margate solicits bids for downtown-style development with new city hall

Margate is soliciting offers to build a municipal mixed-use development that would include a new city hall and serve as the city’s “downtown” area. The development, called Margate City Center, would unfold on 51.4 acres on the east and west sides of U.S. 441 between Royal Palm Boulevard and Atlantic Boulevard. The developer would lease the largely vacant land, which was…

Joint Venture Plans Mixed-Use Redevelopment of The Quay Shopping Center in Fort Lauderdale

A joint venture between BH Group, PEBB Enterprises and Related Group is set to begin the mixed-use redevelopment of The Quay shopping center in the Harbordale neighborhood of Fort Lauderdale.  The joint venture recently acquired the 73,000-square-foot center for $48.5 million. Located at 1515 SE 17th St., the property currently features restaurants, retail space, a marina…

Related, BH, Pebb continue South Florida commercial shopping spree with Fort Lauderdale Waterfront  MXU Purchase

Continuing their commercial shopping spree that began last year, a partnership between three South Florida firms acquired a waterfront mixed-use property in Fort Lauderdale that is primed for redevelopment. Coconut Grove-based Related Group, Aventura-based BH Group and Boca Raton-based Pebb Enterprises paid $48.5 million for The Quay at 17th Street, a 7-acre site…

Plans Filed For Low-Rise Mixed-Use Development At 1102 NW 6th Street In Dorsey Riverbend, Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale’s Development Review Committee is scheduled to review a new proposal by ILFC Corp, led by Gonzalo Sanchez, for a mixed-use development named DL-Design, located at 1102 NW 6th Street in the Dorsey Riverbend area, on May 28. The project, designed to rise four stories to a height of 49 feet, aims to transform a currently vacant 6,342-square-foot lot into…

Broward City Courts Developers To Remake 50 Acres Of Its Downtown

Cale Curtis left tropical Florida this week to head to the Las Vegas desert. The Margate city manager is on official business, showing up with a pitch to developers at the ICSC conference: remake the downtown core of the city of 58,712 people. Local officials in Margate, located in central Broward County, have put out a request for proposals to redevelop as many as 50…

New York Developer Proposes Cantilevering 22-Story Condo Tower At 2317 N Ocean Boulevard In Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale’s Development Review Committee is set to review a Site Plan Level III application for The Amalfi, a 22-story luxury condominium tower designed by Kobi Karp Architecture and proposed by Baldwin, New York-based Moore Group Corporation. Located at 2317 North Ocean Boulevard, the project will offer 38 residential units and amenities within a 0.84-acre…

Erickson pays $54M for senior living dev site at Ag Reserve, amid nationwide expansion

Erickson Senior Living paid $53.5 million for a development site at the Agricultural Reserve, where it plans to build a large facility amid the firm’s nationwide expansion. The Baltimore, Maryland-based firm bought the 92.5-acre tract at 8344 Boynton Beach Boulevard in unincorporated Palm Beach County from the William Mazzoni Revocable Trust, led by Patricia Mazzoni…

Office Submarkets Around the Country Bucking the Trend

Highlights: As of the first quarter of 2024, our top 82 primary office markets were evaluated based on their year-to-date change in effective revenue.Among our five regions, while the Northeast was the top ranked region for the multifamily sector, its office sector performance ranked last given its effective revenue declined by 87-bps during the quarter. Similarly, while…

Survey finds tighter credit policies, weaker loan demand among banks

Banks reported tighter standards and a downtick in demand for real estate loans over the past three months in the Federal Reserve’s April 2024 Senior Loan Officer Opinion Survey (SLOOS) on Bank Lending Practices. Participating institutions generally indicated a reduced tolerance for risk across the board, broadly impacting both residential and commercial real estate lending…

April figures point to return of sustainable apartment rent growth nationally

April marked the second straight month of solid apartment rent gains, Yardi Matrix’s latest Multifamily National Report revealed. Per the real estate analytics company’s data, the average asking rent nationwide grew 0.3%, or $6, to $1,725 month over month in April. The increase moved rents just $2 below the all-time high set last summer. Year-over-year growth was flat from…

The hospitality industry’s new normal with business travelers

It’s no secret that hotels as an asset class have had a bumpy recovery post-COVID. A large part of the lag has been due to the uneven return of business travel, which has long been a lifeblood of the hospitality sector. The post-pandemic evolution of interactions within and among workplaces, including the universalization of video calls and virtual meetings, has reduced in-person…

New Data and Regulation Show an Insurance Industry in Flux

The Latest Data on Rising Insurance Premiums Insurance premiums have been on the rise in recent years, presenting challenges for borrowers and lenders alike. We assessed rising insurance premiums in detail in a report last summer and have been updating the analysis as 2023 expense data was finalized. Figure 1 shows that average premiums for multifamily…

Is the Distribution Bubble About to Burst? Or Will Industrial Price Gains Nationally Endure?

Industrial property prices and rental rates have experienced substantial increases over the last decade. The onset of the pandemic, which propelled the world into lockdown, shifted consumer habits towards increased online shopping and strained supply chains, thereby elevating the demand for warehousing and, in turn, boosting industrial property and rental values.

Not So Roaring Inflation

Highlights: Tuesday’s PPI report seemed like what would be a continuation of the hotter-than-expected economic trend from the first quarter of the year and while the report did come in above consensus, markets overlooked the report buoyed by downward revisions from the previous month and perhaps along with some help from posterchild meme investor, Roaring Kitty.

Video: Moody’s Analytics Senior Economist Ermengarde Jabir Provides Self-Storage Real Estate Update

A Deep-Dive Discussion into the Resilient Self-Storage Market In a recent episode of America’s Commercial Real Estate Show the spotlight was on the self-storage sector. The discussion featured Ermengarde Jabir from Moody’s Analytics, who provided valuable insights into the current trends, challenges, and future projections for the self-storage industry.

Video: Head of Real Estate Strategy & Research at Cohen & Steers Rich Hill on Current State of Commercial Real Estate

The Discussion: Real Estate Trust’s Signal; The Worst Behind in the US? In a recent interview with Bloomberg Television, Rich Hill, Head of Real Estate Strategy & Research at Cohen & Steers, discussed the current state of commercial real estate and the future of office buildings nationally (observations can apply less in Miami). This conversation took place as the Dow Jones…

Video: Morgan Stanley’s Real Estate Investing Co-CEO Lauren Hochfelder discusses firm’s top real estate investing ‘megatrends’

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Video: RealPage Director of Research & Analysis, Market Analytics Presents Multifamily Market Updates & Insights

The Discussion: Navigating the Dynamics of America’s Multifamily Real Estate Market In the realm of real estate, few sectors have captured investor interest and market attention quite like multifamily properties. Offering a blend of stability, demand, and potential for growth, multifamily real estate has been a favored asset class for many investors, particularly in the…

Top 3 commercial real estate valuation methods

Cost, sales comparison and income are the three main commercial real estate valuation approaches. Find out more about these methods and other helpful tools for the valuation of commercial properties. 1. Cost approach. The cost approach is a type of commercial property valuation method that involves separating the cost of the building from the land it’s on. The process looks…

Amazon Plans To Sublet Up To 30 MSF Of Warehouse Space After Over-Expanding

fix link https://ca.movies.yahoo.com/news/amazon-plans-sublet-30-million-072126688.html Amazon plans to sublet between 10 million to 30 million square feet of warehouse space, reports say. It’s also thinking of ending or renegotiating some warehouse leases. The e-commerce giant ramped up capacity during COVID-19, but now has to cope with over-expanding.

“We have to live in the real world”: Lawmaker, experts debate Florida’s condo crisis, looming association deadlines

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Citi analyst slams stock of leading new construction lender Bank OZK with double downgrade

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As Lending Lags, Residential Developers Add More Layers To The Capital Stack

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May 29, 2024

Florida State Sales Tax Rate on Commercial Leases Drops to 2% on June 1

Florida Senate Bill 50 will go into effect on June 1, 2024. This will result in a reduction of more than 50% in the state’s commercial lease tax from 4.5% to 2.0%. However, this decline does not extend to any fees or taxes at the local level. In Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach counties, the total tax rate will be 3.0%, a drop of near half from the prior combined level of 5.5%.

Benefits for Commercial Tenants

Tenants in commercial properties should immediately benefit – found money, if you will – from the reduced lease tax. Lower taxes mean decreased overall leasing costs, which can improve cash flow and financial stability for businesses. This is particularly beneficial for small and medium-sized enterprises that often operate on tighter margins. The reduced tax burden can also enable businesses to allocate more resources to growth initiatives, such as hiring, marketing, and expanding their operations. Furthermore, with the reduced cost of leasing space, Florida may become a more attractive location for new businesses, fostering a more vibrant and diverse commercial ecosystem.

Benefits for Commercial Real Estate Owners

For commercial real estate owners, the substantial reduction in the commercial lease tax is also a positive as presumably this will lead to higher rent growth than might otherwise be achieved. The fuel for this rent growth would be that more money is available for rent and related expenses as less is required by the tax man.  For a property with NOI that is 60% of gross income, if half of that savings over time was realized as additional rent, then NOI should increase by 2.08% (1.25% / 60%). Additionally, the lower tax burden can make Florida properties more competitive, potentially increasing demand and occupancy rates. One way or another, lower tax obligations should enhance the profitability of property investments, making Florida a more attractive market for commercial real estate.

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May 25, 2024

Video: Moody’s Analytics Senior Economist Ermengarde Jabir Provides Self-Storage Real Estate Update

A Deep-Dive Discussion into the Resilient Self-Storage Market

In a recent episode of America’s Commercial Real Estate Show the spotlight was on the self-storage sector. The discussion featured Ermengarde Jabir from Moody’s Analytics, who provided valuable insights into the current trends, challenges, and future projections for the self-storage industry. Moody’s Analytics provides financial intelligence and analytical tools, including for commercial real estate.

Self-Storage: A Sector in Transition

The self-storage industry has shown remarkable resilience, particularly during the early 2020s. It was one of the few property types that thrived during the COVID-19 pandemic, maintaining high occupancy rates and strong demand. However, as the market adjusts to post-pandemic realities, some shifts are becoming evident.

Occupancy Trends: Historically, self-storage exhibits significant seasonality. The first and fourth quarters typically see higher vacancy rates due to lower moving activity during these periods. In the first quarter of 2024, the national vacancy rate for self-storage stood at 13.3%. While this is slightly elevated, it is expected to stabilize around 12.7% by the end of the year, aligning with 2023 figures. Looking ahead, vacancy rates are projected to decrease to the low 12s and high 11s by 2025 and 2026, respectively.

Rental Rates: Both climate-controlled and non-climate-controlled units have experienced a decline in rental rates. The trend started in 2023, with a 3.4% drop in climate-controlled unit rents. This decline continued into the first quarter of 2024 but at a slower pace, indicating that the worst of the rate drops may be behind us. Projections suggest a slight decline of 6% for climate-controlled units by the end of 2024, followed by modest growth in subsequent years.

Supply and Demand Dynamics

One of the critical factors influencing the self-storage market is the supply pipeline. Jabir highlighted a noticeable slowdown in new supply, driven by higher construction costs, labor shortages, and rising interest rates. The number of new units coming online has decreased significantly from previous years. For instance, while 125,000 units were completed in 2023, only 20,000 units were added in the first quarter of 2024. This trend is expected to continue, with completions slowing down to just over 100,000 units by 2025.

Self-Storage Investment and Cap Rates

Despite the challenges, investor demand for self-storage remains robust. Cap rates, although slightly elevated, continue to be attractive, particularly for high-performing properties. The sector’s ability to maintain comparatively low cap rates underscores its perceived stability and long-term viability.

Future Outlook

The future of the self-storage industry appears positive, albeit with moderated growth. As new supply diminishes and demand stabilizes, both occupancy rates and rental rates are expected to improve gradually. The industry’s performance will also benefit from ongoing domestic migration trends, particularly to the Sun Belt regions, and a steady influx of foreign immigrants.

Conclusion

The self-storage sector has demonstrated its resilience and adaptability in the face of economic fluctuations. While the market is currently experiencing a period of recalibration, the long-term outlook remains optimistic. Investors and stakeholders can expect steady, sustainable growth as the sector continues to adapt to changing market conditions.

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May 24, 2024

Video: Head of Real Estate Strategy & Research at Cohen & Steers Rich Hill on Current State of Commercial Real Estate

The Discussion: Real Estate Trust’s Signal; The Worst Behind in the US?

In a recent interview with Bloomberg Television, Rich Hill, Head of Real Estate Strategy & Research at Cohen & Steers, discussed the current state of commercial real estate and the future of office buildings nationally (observations can apply less in Miami). This conversation took place as the Dow Jones historically surpassed 40,000.

Current State of Office Spaces

Nationwide office vacancies are at a staggering 20%, with expectations of further increases. Hill noted a disparity in performance among different office categories. New, clean, and green office spaces, especially in prime locations like New York City, are doing exceptionally well. For instance, Hudson Yards and One Vanderbilt have seen high occupancy rates. In contrast, Class B and C properties, typically built in the 1970s and 1980s and lacking significant capital expenditure, are struggling. Hill emphasized that while office spaces are facing challenges, they only constitute 20% of the commercial real estate market and 3% of the US listed real estate market.

Lending Environment and Property Valuations

The lending environment for real estate investors is a critical issue. Commercial real estate is a heavily leveraged asset class, with most properties purchased with substantial debt. This leverage has led to significant pressure on property valuations. Hill pointed out that property valuations have generally declined by around 20%, with office valuations down by about 35%. This decline is driven not by poor fundamentals but by higher financing costs and reduced availability of debt.

The Role of Lenders and Borrowers

Hill explained the complex dynamics between lenders and borrowers, likening it to a “prisoner’s dilemma.” Banks are not keen on owning office spaces, as regulatory capital charges for owning property on balance sheets are higher than modifying loans at a high loan-to-value (LTV) ratio. This has led to modifications and extensions of loans, a practice some might see as “kicking the can down the road,” but Hill views it as a necessary adjustment in a challenging environment.

Private Credit in Real Estate

The growth of private credit in the real estate market has been notable. In 2015, private credit accounted for about 10% of total lending, peaking at around 20%. Although this market share has slightly decreased, private credit remains a significant player. Hill noted that private credit can fill gaps left by traditional banks, particularly in underwriting and working out loans.

Future Outlook

Despite the challenges, Hill suggested that the feared collapse in commercial real estate lending has not materialized. Instead, the market is experiencing a slow adjustment. While property valuations are expected to drop further, reaching a peak-to-trough decline of 25-30%, this might signal a bottoming out. Sellers capitulating and buyers stepping in could indicate a healthy contrarian signal for the market.

In conclusion, while the commercial real estate market, particularly office spaces, faces significant hurdles, there are signs of stabilization. The strategic modifications in lending practices and the role of private credit provide a framework for navigating these challenges. The market’s slow adjustment, rather than a sudden collapse, offers a cautiously optimistic outlook for the future.

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May 24, 2024

Miami Commercial Real Estate News May 22, 2024: Live Local Act Amended; 1,219-Unit 1.8M sf Overtown Development Approved; $200M+ Fisher Island Dev Site Hits Market; More…

Co-Living Community ‘i5 Wynwood’ Reaches Completion At 51 NW 28th Street In Wynwood

i5 Wynwood, a newly completed co-living community in Miami’s Wynwood neighborhood, is now welcoming its first residents. Located at 51 Northwest 28th Street, between North Miami Avenue and Northwest 1st Avenue, this 9-story residential building was designed by Arquitectonica and has interiors by Michael Wolk. Developed by Related Group and W5 Group, i5 Wynwood…

i5 Wynwood Co-Living Community Reaches Completion With 215 Suites

Hundreds of new residents are about to begin moving into a newly completed co-living building known as i5 Wynwood. Leasing and move-ins for i5 Wynwood have now begun, according to a press release. Residents will have their own private bedroom and ensuite bathroom, inside a 3 or 4 bedroom apartment. The living area and kitchen will be shared. Prices start at…

35-Story Domus Brickell Center Announced, With Sales Now Underway

Developers have announced plans and launched sales for a new 35-story tower called Domus Brickell Center. Domus Brickell Center is planned to include 579 fully finished and furnished units allowing short term rentals. Prices range from the $500,000’s to $1.5 million. Brickell’s Metrorail and Metromover stations are a block away from the project site. The Domus concept…

Ricardo Dunin, Peruvian partner launch sales of second Domus-branded Brickell condo project

Ricardo Dunin and his Peruvian partner, Juan Carlos Tassara, are launching sales of their second Domus-branded short-term rental-friendly condo tower in Miami’s Brickell neighborhood. Dunin, CEO of Miami-Based Oak Capital and co-founder of North Development, his joint venture with Tassara, said his aim for Domus Brickell Center, as the project is named, is affordability…

Three Proposers Shortlisted For Downtown Miami 24-Hour Metrocenter Project

Downtown Miami’s Metrocenter development is advancing. The county has now shortlisted three prequalified proposers for the project, according to a memo to commissioners dated last week. Multiple county properties are planned to be redeveloped to make way for Metrocenter. Plans call for around 27 acres in the downtown government center area be redeveloped into…

51-Story Downtown Miami Tower Gale Miami Hotel & Residences Opens Next Week, After 3 Years Of Construction

The Gale Miami Hotel & Residences will open on June 1, according to the Herald. The 51-story tower, formerly known as Natiivo, broke ground in February 2021, so construction took a little over three years. The 160 hotel rooms at The Gale will be offered for both short and long-term stays. The building also includes restaurants (one of which will open in July), 125,000 square feet…

Refinancing for 352-Room EAST Miami Hotel Arranged

Colliers’ Hospitality Practice Group has arranged the refinancing for EAST Miami Hotel, a 352-room hotel located in Miami’s Brickell district. The property is part of Swire Properties’ $1 billion Brickell City Centre development, which features more than 500,000 square feet of shops and restaurants. EAST Miami Hotel opened in 2016 and features meeting rooms, a fitness center…

Wynwood’s tech office boom hits a short circuit

New York-based R&B Realty wrapped a large vinyl sign around the ground-floor windows of Gateway at Wynwood recently. The advertisement is meant to draw the attention of prospective tenants to the 13-story mixed-use building’s 3,500 square feet to 30,000 square feet spaces that are available for lease. Some suites are move-in ready, and an entire floor is available…

Integral Group Breaks Ground on 99-Unit Affordable Seniors Housing Community in Opa-Locka

The Integral Group has broken ground on Wellspring Apartments, an affordable seniors housing community in the Miami suburb of Opa-Locka. Wellspring Apartments will feature 99 units, 67 of which are reserved for residents earning below 50 percent of the area median income (AMI), and the remaining 32 units are for residents earning below 60 percent AMI. The 81,350-square…

Resia nabs $71M construction loan for Golden Glades apartments, as South Florida defies financing slump

Resia scored a $71 million construction loan for a 420-unit apartment complex in Golden Glades, as South Florida continues to defy the nationwide financing slump. The development firm plans four five-story buildings and a 705-space garage on a 7.1-acre site between Northwest 159th Street and Northwest 161st Street, immediately east of I-95 in unincorporated Miami-Dade County…

PortMiami Increases Economic Impact

PortMiami’s economic impact has increased by 48% to US$61.4bn in eight years, according to a study conducted by Martin Associates, which accounts for 4% of the state of Florida’s US$1.6tn Gross Domestic Product (GDP). The study used the same methodology that was carried out in the 2016 report and measured PortMiami’s impact in terms of jobs, business revenue…

Fisher Island potential dev site hits market, bids starting at $200M

Just when it seemed like Fisher Island was tapped out of development sites, a nearly 10-acre fuel depot on the exclusive enclave is now in play. TransMontaigne Partners, a Denver-based energy company that operates fossil fuel storage terminals, is putting its facility at 1 Fisher Island Drive on the market, according to an offering memorandum obtained by The Real Deal. The asking…

MetroCenter development of 17 downtown acres advancing

Miami-Dade County’s $10 billion downtown utopian vision, MetroCenter, had a little more money thrown at it last week. The project, Mayor Daniella Levine Cava said in a presentation last August, is a “transformative redevelopment of the … government center campus.” The county’s Infrastructure, Operations and Innovations Committee voted unanimously to send a resolution…

Miami Downtown Development Authority adds to expansion incentives

Miami’s Downtown Development Authority (DDA) is offering $1.1 million in incentives for businesses to expand operations in the area, stimulate the economy and attract high-quality jobs for local talent. The grant program expands previous incentives and includes funding for ground floor retail, start-up operations and mid-size businesses seeking to move or grow in downtown’s…

South Florida price rises slowing, but still outpace nation

South Florida’s cost of living as measured by the Consumer Price Index is still rising faster than in the nation’s urban areas as a whole, but that pace continues to decline from the soaring inflation of recent years, new federal data reveal. While urban inflation across the nation was 3.4% in April, South Florida inflation grew faster, a 4.5% annual pace, data from the US Bureau of Labor…

FAA Approves Summit at Brickell Tower To be Built At 765 Feet Above Ground

The Federal Aviation Administration has approved construction of the Summit At Brickell tower after a relatively short review process. The project height was filed with the FAA on April 5, with an approval letter issued this morning. Summit At Brickell is planned to rise 765 feet above ground, or 769 feet above sea level at its highest point, according to the approval letter. The 60-story…

Photo: Nearly Completed Arch At Downtown Miami’s Signature Bridge

A photo shows a nearly completed arch at the Signature Bridge under construction in Downtown Miami. The Florida Department of Transportation is spending $840m on a rebuild of the I-95 highway interchange, where it crosses I-395 and the 836 expressway. As part of the project, six arches are being built as a design feature next to the overpasses passing through Miami’s…

Urban Development Review Board Votes In Favor Of Massive 1.8M sf Mixed-Use Development In Overtown

The Urban Development Review Board (UDRB) has voted in favor of a mixed-use development project at 650 Northwest 8th Street and 678 Northwest 7th Street in Overtown, Miami. The planned project, a collaboration between 0101 Miami Properties, LLC, led by Jorge and Jose Mas, and 8th Street Connections Holdings, LLC, an affiliate of Terra, will encompass over 1.8…

1,219-Unit Overtown Development Approved, Construction Timeline Announced

Miami’s Urban Development Review Board has voted in favor of a massive Overtown development, and a construction timeline has been announced by the developer. The UDRB vote 4-0 last week to recommend approval as presented. Developer Terra is working in partnership with an entity controlled by the Mas family on the new community. Three phases are planned.

Miami board green-lights plans for Overtown, Midtown and downtown Miami towers

Developers David Martin, the Más family, Michael Simkins and Gil Blutrich received the green light from Miami’s Urban Development Review Board last week for planned residential projects from Overtown to Midtown Miami. Board members called the three projects “beautiful.” The UDRB unanimously recommended approval of all three developments at its meeting last…

Space Availability in Large Industrial Properties Continues To Rise in South Florida

The slump in industrial leasing continues into 2024, with all South Florida markets seeing slight upticks in vacancy and slowing rent gains. Annual leasing activity has dropped between roughly 20% and 35% below levels achieved during the peak of the pandemic, and except for Fort Lauderdale, leasing activity also remains depressed relative to pre-pandemic average trends.

Vantage Capital pays $21M for 108-unit Hialeah rental complex amid investment sales slowdown

Vantage Capital Partners scooped up a 108-unit apartment complex in Hialeah for $20.6 million, marking one of the few multifamily investment sales this year. Coconut Grove-based Vantage bought the San Sherri Apartments at 13101345 West 29th Street from a pair of affiliates tied to Brooklyn-based Freshwater Group, according to records and real estate database Vizzda..

Miami A Launch Market For Uber’s New Shuttle Service

Uber has announced plans for a new shuttle service, and Miami will be the first to experience the new service. Uber said it is partnering with Hard Rock Stadium to launch the new service for concerts this summer. Miami is one of four launch cities named for Uber Shuttle, and the only one with a confirmed destination announced. Exact routes to and from the stadium haven’t…

28-Story Kendall Apartment Tower Shoma 88 Announced Under Live Local Act

Miami-based developer Shoma Group is planning a 28-story apartment tower in Kendall, thanks to Florida’s Live Local Act. The Live Local Act overrides many local zoning rules statewide, if developers commit to building 40% of units as workforce housing. The new Kendall project is known as Shoma 88. “Kendall holds a special place in our hearts,” says Masoud Shojaee…

Construction Progress: Airstream Trailer Amenity Installed At Wynhouse Miami

Construction continues progressing on Wynhouse Miami, an 8-story mixed-use building at 2200 Northwest 1st Avenue in the heart of Miami’s Wynwood neighborhood. Designed by Nichols Architects with interiors by ID & Design International (IDDI) and developed by Fisher Brothers, the recently topped-off, approximately 115-foot-tall structure will deliver 308 rental residences…

Tenant rumble at Robert Rivani’s Wynwood Jungle in Miami

Robert Rivani’s Black Lion is in a legal tussle with a tenant that allegedly backed out of opening a restaurant at Wynwood Jungle in Miami. An affiliate of Columbus, Ohio-based restaurateur Brian Swanson last week sued an affiliate of Miami-based Black Lion Investment Group that owns the 23,000-square-foot retail and restaurant building at 50 Northwest 24th…

Atlantic Pacific, nonprofit partner plan 124-unit apartment project for disabled adults in Kendall

Atlantic Pacific Companies and nonprofit Casa Familia will develop a 124-unit apartment complex in Kendall for tenants with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The Village at Casa Familia will be developed in three phases on 9 acres at 11025 Southwest 84th Street in unincorporated Miami-Dade County, according to a project filing submitted to the county last week. The first phase…

Alta Development Plans ‘SoMi Walk’ for 5959 SW 71st Street in Miami

Alta Development, led by Henry Pino, has plans for a 15-story complex. Upon completion, the proposed SoMi Walk condo would feature 310 units, measuring 490 to 800 square feet each, with prices from $500,000 to $860,000. The development, designed by Miami-based Architecture Form Group, includes a host of communal amenities, such as indoor pickleball courts…

Retail Rents Rise in South Florida as Demand Continues to Outpace Supply

The retail sector in South Florida is undergoing adjustments that reflect the region’s dynamic economic landscape and evolving consumer preferences. One notable trend is evident in the restaurant sector, where owners increasingly aim to expand by opening new locations and entering lucrative markets.  This trend is primarily driven by consumer spending, particularly the continual…

Plans Filed For 8-Story Mediterranean-Style Mixed-Use Development At 33 Alhambra Circle In Coral Gables

33 Alhambra ProCo, LLC, an affiliate of a joint venture partnership between local developer MG Developer and Peru-based VYV, has submitted plans for an 8-story mixed-use development known as Alhambra Parc, also referred to as 33 Alhambra, in Coral Gables. The project aims to develop the 1.12-acre site at 33 Alhambra Circle, which was acquired in 2022 for $19,250,000.

CP Group, DRA Advisors Execute 40,000 SF of Office Leases at Miami Tower

CP Group and DRA Advisors have executed nearly 40,000 square feet of office lease transactions at Miami Tower, a 47-story, Class A office tower located at 100 S.E. 2nd St. in downtown Miami. The executed deals include two lease renewals (H&R Block and Transwestern), one expansion (law firm Assouline & Berlowe) and seven new leases, all of which were for Miami…

850-Foot Residences At Mandarin Oriental on Brickell Key To Break Ground In 2025

Swire Properties has launched sales for The Residences at Mandarin Oriental, Miami and released additional details on the development. Two towers are planned, connected by a landscaped podium. The South Tower will rise 66 stories, or 850 feet, while the North Tower will rise 426 feet. Both are being designed by Kohn Pedersen Fox. The South Tower will have 228 condos…

1,000-Foot Cranes Approved At Cipriani Construction Site In Brickell

The Federal Aviation Administration has approved the heights of several tower cranes planned at the 80-story Cipriani Residences construction site in Brickell. The first crane is now approved to reach a height of 1000 feet above ground, or 1003 feet above sea level. The second crane is approved to reach a height of 980 feet above ground, or 983 feet above sea level. The permanent…

Deal For Brightline To Build Commuter Rail System Nearly Ready

Negotiations on a deal for Brightline to build a commuter rail system on its tracks are “advancing very nicely,” according to a recent report on the SFBJ. Miami-Dade commissioners will probably vote on the deal in June or July, the report said. While Brightline will build the system, it will likely be operated by the South Florida Regional Transportation Agency, which operates Tri-Rail.

Construction Dates & Additional Details Released For Midtown Miami’s Tallest Tower Ever

The developers planning the Midtown 1 tower have announced an expected construction start date and additional details. The tower is proposed to rise 48 stories, or 596 feet above ground, making it the tallest ever in Midtown Miami. There will be 329 luxury condominium units, according to a statement released by the developers. Arquitectonica is designing the building…

New York Hotel Operator Proposes Two New Hotels At 5101 Blue Lagoon Drive Near Miami Airport

New York-based hotel owner MCR, under the M2 Miami Airport Blue Lagoon, LLC, has unveiled plans for two new hotels adjacent to its Hilton Miami Airport Blue Lagoon. The proposal filed as a pre-application with Miami-Dade County officials concerns the 20.6-acre property at 5101 Blue Lagoon Drive, which currently hosts the 14-story, 508-room hotel developed…

WeWork holds onto leases for most of its South Florida portfolio – still unclear on Miami, South Beach outposts

WeWork will hold onto its leases for most of its South Florida co-working spaces, while the future of its South Beach and downtown Miami outposts remains in doubt. The firm, which filed for Chapter 11 reorganization in November, is working to emerge from bankruptcy by the end of May, most recently filing a plan to keep 89 co-working spaces in the U.S. and Canada.

3 firms to relocate to recently renovated Doral building

Three companies secured a total of 14,201 square feet in a Doral office building that recently underwent a multimillion dollar renovation. Grupo Eulen, Vanderweil Engineers, and Trust Lending have signed leases and will relocate to the Offices at Doral Square, a 141,246-square-foot building at 8600 N.W. 36th Street. Grupo Eulen will move its Miami office into a 6,026-square-foot…

Developer plans 245-unit senior living facility in Weston

South Florida developer Terry Salzman won site plan approval for the development of a six-story, 245-unit senior living facility in Weston. Fort Lauderdale architecture firm Synalovski Romanik Saye LLC designed the 325,808-square-foot building with 113 units for independent living, 108 for assisted living, and 24 for memory care. A resident of Weston for the last 25 years…

286-Apartment ‘Cypress Crossing’ Could Replace Park-and-Ride in Fort Lauderdale

Oakland Park’s Development Review Committee will review a proposal for Cypress Crossing tomorrow, May 23rd. The mixed-use venture would replace a park-and-ride lot, comprising three buildings: one eight-story building and two 7,500-square-foot retail buildings. According to the South Florida Business Journal, the mid-rise building would offer 286 apartments…

Mixed-Use, 71-Apartment ‘1435 ArtXchange’ Set for 1429 to 1435 Sistrunk Boulevard in Fort Lauderdale

Sirrom Commercial hopes to move one step closer to accomplishing 1435 ArtXchange, a mixed-use project in Fort Lauderdale. The city’s Community Development Agency (CRA) board will consider a $6 million forgivable loan for the workforce housing development which, upon completion would deliver 71 apartments, 5,844 square feet of commercial bays (five total), and a 218…

NRIA’s successor proposes 48-story apartment tower in Fort Lauderdale

The successor to the formerly embattled National Realty Investment Advisors proposed a 48-story, 429-unit apartment tower in Fort Lauderdale’s Flagler Village area. A city review panel told a subsidiary of AIRN Holding Company on Tuesday to consider redesigning the ­proposed multifamily tower to address excessive podium height and add visual drama to the roofline.

Former funeral home site in Wilton Manors to be redeveloped as boutique hotel with 123 rooms

The owners of a former funeral home in Wilton Manors won city approval to redevelop the property as a 123-room boutique hotel called the Wilton Hotel. The Wilton Manors City Council unanimously approved a rezoning of the hotel development site during the council’s meeting Tuesday night, along with a developer’s agreement and deed restrictions on the development site.

New Renderings Of Broward Elevated Light Rail That Could Eventually Reach Sawgrass

The Sun Sentinel has published new renderings of a people mover system and an elevated light rail system to be built in Broward County. The light rail system is planned to be elevated. It will run 3.5 miles in a first phase, from an intermodal center at Fort Lauderdale airport to the Broward County Convention Center and Port Everglades. Eventually, it could be extended to Sawgrass Mills.

Pompano Beach senior rental project lands $28M in construction loans, as affordable apartments defy financing slump

A low-income apartment project for senior residents in Pompano Beach landed a $27.5 million construction loan package, as affordable housing remains immune to the multifamily financing slump. The Housing Authority of Pompano Beach and Jacksonville-based apartment developer Vestcor are building the 100-unit Provident Place with a pair of three-story buildings…

Ares drops $140M for Boca Raton apartments in biggest South Florida multifamily sale this year

Ares Management bought a 284-unit apartment building in Boca Raton for $139.7 million, marking the biggest multifamily sale in South Florida so far this year. Los Angeles-based Ares scooped up the eight-story Ceru property at 5205 Congress Avenue from Fort Lauderdale-based Mainstreet Capital Partners, according to records and real estate database Vizzda. The sale defies the…

Brookfield buying big US multifamily portfolio including properties in Coral Springs, West Palm Beach

Brookfield has agreed to pay US$1.55bn for a 7,300-unit apartment portfolio concentrated in Florida and Texas, Green Street News can reveal. The investment behemoth is buying the 23-property package from Starwood Capital, which evidently pieced the portfolio together over the last five years. The deal values each apartment at US$212,000. It’s not clear if Miami Beach-based…

Lease roundup: Financial firms lease at Steve Ross’ West Palm towers, Pura Vida is in expansion mode

Steve Ross’ Related Companies signed six new tenants in downtown West Palm Beach, amid the developer’s hefty bet on the area’s office market. JPMorgan Chase leased space at the 20-story 360 Rosemary building at 360 South Rosemary Avenue, which Related completed in 2021, Bloomberg reported. Also, billionaire hedge funder John Paulson’s Paulson Capital and private equity…

What’s Trending In Industrial Space? Automation In Towering Cold Storage Boxes

Many in the cold storage space are using ASRS to more strategically manage their inventories. In one instance, an occupant called AmeriCold constructs their new buildings around such a system, and in many cases, they stretch 150 feet in height. To put this in context, that is approximately 12 stories high, and roughly four times the height of the modern concrete…

The Supermarket Rental Sweep: Analyzing Multifamily Rent Premiums Generated by Grocery Store Anchors

Across the country, both urban centers and established suburbs have contended with a mismatch between the desire to densify with contemporary mixed-use development and their existing land use patterns of single-use, low-density development. In particular, many grocery stores were built as sprawling, low-density stores in central locations that today present an inefficient…

Multifamily Distress Rate Nearly Doubles Nationally In April

The worst isn’t over for the distress-riddled multifamily industry, according to new monthly financial indicators. The overall distress rate set a new record of 8.35% in April, according to real estate data firm CRED iQ, with multifamily leading the increase. Multifamily’s distress rate increased from 3.7% in March to 7.2% in April, CRED iQ reported. The jump was led by a loan…

DeSantis Signs Live Local Amendments, Boosting Tax Breaks For Developers

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis signed into law changes to the Live Local Act that are meant to clarify its rules while providing a boost for developers looking to build affordable and workforce housing. The amendments were one of 11 bills DeSantis signed into law Thursday. Among the changes, which are seen as largely favorable to developers, are increased tax breaks for affordable…

Live Local changes could propel workforce housing boom in South Florida

A “coming soon” sign posted at the construction site of an affordable housing development in Hollywood, a market brimming with new projects, prompted an unexpected response. More than 21,000 people applied to live in the 113-unit future development, called Pinnacle 441. Pinnacle opened a lottery for the units March 15 and closed it 10 days later. It’s no secret that South Florida…

The Weekly Dirt: It’s go time for Live Local projects

Gov. Ron DeSantis signed long-awaited amendments to the Live Local Act into law last week, a relief for developers banking on the changes. Senate Bill 328 generally boosts and clarifies developer incentives under the workforce housing law that the Florida Legislature passed in 2023. It took more than two months for the latest bill to make it to DeSantis’ desk in early May.

Video: Morgan Stanley’s Real Estate Investing Co-CEO Lauren Hochfelder discusses firm’s top real estate investing ‘megatrends’

The recent Yahoo Finance episode of “Wealth!” featured Morgan Stanley Real Estate Investing Co-CEO, Lauren Hochfelder, who provided an in-depth analysis of current real estate investing trends amidst a volatile market. With shelter prices rising by 5.5% year over year and high mortgage rates coupled with low housing inventory, investors face a challenging landscape. Hochfelder…

How to use the debt service coverage ratio in real estate

The debt service coverage ratio, or DSCR, is a useful metric for assessing a borrower’s ability to cover debt obligations. In real estate, it can measure how easily the net income a property generates can cover its mortgage. The DSCR is one tool real estate investors often use when evaluating potential investment properties. It’s also an important factor lenders consider when investors…

Innovative financing for workforce housing

Half of all U.S. renter households spent more than 30% of their income on rent in 2022, according to the Harvard Joint Center for Housing Studies. In many markets, families are spending the majority of their income on housing costs, leaving limited resources for other needs. When cost burdens are that widespread, low-income renters aren’t the only ones struggling…

U.S. Apartment Transactions Nationally Slump to Lowest Level Since Pandemic

Investments in U.S. apartments continued to decline in 2024’s 1st quarter amid the high cost of borrowing and economic uncertainty. Though the asset class remains an attractive commercial real estate investment, sales have fallen well below pre-pandemic levels. Nearly 1,040 apartment properties changed hands at a value of $20.6 billion during 1st quarter 2024, according…

Bank OZK Has Dominated Construction Lending. Its CEO Has No Plans To Slow Down

No one has handed out more U.S. construction loans over the past year and a half than a midsized bank in Little Rock, Arkansas. In fact, no entity is even close. Bank OZK handed out more than $3B in real estate construction loans in 2023, while its closest competition, JPMorgan Chase and Wells Fargo, each originated less than $2B, according to MSCI. As most banks are pulling…

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May 22, 2024

Video: Morgan Stanley’s Real Estate Investing Co-CEO Lauren Hochfelder discusses firm’s top real estate investing ‘megatrends’

The Discussion: Morgan Stanley’s Real Estate Investing Megatrends; Insights from Co-CEO Lauren Hochfelder

The recent Yahoo Finance episode of “Wealth!” featured Morgan Stanley Real Estate Investing Co-CEO, Lauren Hochfelder, who provided an in-depth analysis of current real estate investing trends amidst a volatile market. With shelter prices rising by 5.5% year over year and high mortgage rates coupled with low housing inventory, investors face a challenging landscape. Hochfelder, however, sees this as an opportune time to invest, driven by several megatrends reshaping the sector. Note that this discussion is about commercial property throughout the United States. Thus, observations can apply less to Miami area property.

Real Estate Market Overview

The real estate market is undergoing a significant correction, with broad repricing across various asset classes. Hochfelder pointed out that some assets are distressed for valid reasons, but many are performing well in terms of income growth yet are priced 20-30% lower. This, she argues, presents a unique entry point for investors.

Key Megatrends Driving Real Estate Investment

Hochfelder highlighted several key megatrends that are creating substantial investment opportunities:

1. Growth in E-commerce: The continued expansion of e-commerce is driving demand for warehouses. This trend is expected to persist as more consumers shop online, necessitating efficient supply chain logistics to deliver goods quickly.

2. Realignment of the Global Supply Chain: Globalization is undergoing a U-turn, with event-driven supply shocks prompting companies to rebuild their infrastructure. This shift is increasing the demand for warehouses as businesses adapt to the new supply chain dynamics.

3. Aging Demographics: The aging population is changing housing preferences and needs. As people live longer and seek different living arrangements, there is a growing demand for varied housing options, including senior living facilities.

Impact of Interest Rates on Commercial Real Estate

Real estate, being a levered asset class, is significantly impacted by interest rates. Hochfelder noted that many asset owners are currently under pressure due to high interest rates, which make refinancing difficult. However, Morgan Stanley focuses on maintaining durable capital stacks that can withstand any interest rate environment. They invest in properties where income growth can outpace rate expansions, ensuring resilience across economic cycles.

Location Versus Dislocation

Traditionally, real estate investment was guided by the principle of “location, location, location.” However, Hochfelder emphasized that today’s strategy should also consider “dislocation, dislocation, dislocation.” This involves understanding changes in where people live and work. For example, the COVID-19 pandemic led to significant shifts, with people moving from traditional hubs like New York City to emerging markets such as Miami and Dallas. These migrations are influencing where investors should place their bets.

Conclusion

In summary, Lauren Hochfelder’s insights underscore that while the current real estate market presents challenges, it also offers substantial opportunities driven by transformative megatrends. Investors need to consider these broader shifts, focus on durable investment strategies, and be mindful of evolving location dynamics to successfully navigate the real estate landscape.

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May 21, 2024

Video: Developer Don Peebles Discusses Real Estate, Lists Miami Among Cities of Opportunity

The Discussion: The Future of the Housing Market and Commercial Real Estate; Insights from Industry Leader Don Peebles

Introduction:
Recent data indicate that the housing market is beginning to cool, as evidenced by an increase in “For Sale” signs and a rise in new mortgage applications. The market is experiencing a complex interplay of factors that are shaping its trajectory. To provide a deeper understanding, Don Peebles, Chair and CEO of Peebles Corporation, shared his expert insights into the current state of the housing and commercial real estate markets during a recent interview.

Housing Market Dynamics:
Peebles highlighted a noticeable shift in the housing market. Despite a rise in new mortgage demands and an increase in single and multifamily housing starts, the market remains supply-constrained. This limitation in supply continues to drive up prices in most major metropolitan areas across the United States. Peebles noted that 93% of the top 50 metropolitan markets are seeing price increases in both rents and home prices.

However, specific regions like Florida, which has seen significant price appreciation since 2018, are starting to experience a pullback. This moderation is a natural consequence of the rapid price increases over the past few years. Despite this, the overall housing market remains robust due to the persistent supply constraints and high demand.

Challenges in Commercial Real Estate:
Turning to the commercial real estate sector, Peebles pointed out the challenges posed by the lending environment. Regional and local banks, which have significant exposure to commercial office buildings, are facing difficulties as many of these properties are struggling, particularly in major markets. The pandemic has exacerbated these issues, leading to a cautious approach from banks regarding new loans.

At 2:34 in this video, Miami, along with Boston, San Francisco, and Charlotte, is displayed among a list of  “cities of opportunity.”

Opportunities in Private Credit:
Amid these challenges, Peebles identified private credit as a significant opportunity in the commercial real estate market. Since regulatory changes discouraged banks from making high-volatility commercial real estate loans, private credit has stepped in to fill the gap. With banks now hesitant to issue new loans due to rising interest rates, private credit lenders can capitalize on the opportunity to secure high-quality loans without facing as much competition.

Peebles explained that private credit underwriting is more individualized compared to the formulaic approach of banks, allowing for better decision-making and potentially more secure investments. This adaptability and focused approach make private credit a promising avenue in the current market environment.

Regional Market Insights:
Peebles highlighted specific markets such as Boston and the Bay Area as having significant opportunities due to their supply-constrained nature. These regions, known for their high demand and limited supply, continue to perform well. He also mentioned that despite the general trend of a cooling market, some areas still offer attractive investment opportunities due to their unique supply and demand dynamics.

Future Outlook:
Looking ahead, Peebles provided a cautionary outlook for the commercial real estate market. He described the current situation as a “calm before the storm,” with many local and regional banks holding substantial commercial real estate loans that have not yet faced foreclosure actions. As these foreclosures begin to increase, there could be a ripple effect leading to job declines and significant losses in the commercial banking sector by 2025.

Conclusion:
Don Peebles’ insights offer a nuanced perspective on the housing and commercial real estate markets. While the housing market shows signs of cooling, it remains resilient due to supply constraints. In contrast, the commercial real estate sector faces significant challenges, but opportunities in private credit offer a silver lining. Investors and stakeholders should prepare for potential turbulence ahead, especially in the commercial sector, while remaining vigilant for emerging opportunities.

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May 17, 2024

Video: Rooftop Cinema Club Founder and CEO Gerry Cottle, Head of Real Estate Aly Dean on Creating New Revenue Streams from Underutilized CRE Space

Video: Exploring Rooftop Cinema Club; A Unique Fusion of Film and Real Estate

The recent episode of “America’s Commercial Real Estate Show” delved into an innovative concept transforming underutilized urban spaces: Rooftop Cinema Club. This conversation, featuring Gerry Cottle, the founder and CEO, and Aly Dean, the head of real estate development at Rooftop Cinema Club, highlighted the unique blend of cinema and real estate that this company offers.

The Concept: A Cinematic Experience in the Sky

Rooftop Cinema Club began in London in 2011, providing an open-air film experience that quickly gained popularity despite the unpredictable weather. The concept was simple yet novel: classic and contemporary films are shown on rooftops, enhanced by stunning city views and a social atmosphere. By 2015, the concept was brought to the U.S., starting in New York and quickly expanding to cities like Hollywood, San Diego, Houston, and Miami.

Versatility in Venues

One of the standout features of Rooftop Cinema Club is its flexibility regarding venue locations. The company is not tied to a specific type of rooftop. Instead, it can adapt to various structures, including hotels, office buildings, parking decks, and even tennis courts. The primary requirement is a good view, which enhances the overall experience for the audience. This adaptability allows the company to repurpose underutilized spaces, turning them into vibrant social hubs.

Partnership with Property Owners

For property owners, Rooftop Cinema Club offers a unique opportunity to monetize unused spaces. The company typically enters into long-term leases, viewing these partnerships as mutually beneficial. Property owners gain a unique amenity that attracts visitors and tenants, while Rooftop Cinema Club secures a location for their events. The setup process involves some tenant improvements, often shared between the property owner and Rooftop Cinema Club, including structural reinforcements and utility installations.

Creating a Social Cinema Experience

Rooftop Cinema Club differentiates itself from traditional cinemas by offering more than just a movie. It’s an entire evening out, complete with delicious food, crafted cocktails, and a social environment where attendees can play games and engage in conversations before the movie starts. This “social cinema” approach transforms a simple film screening into a memorable event, appealing to a broad audience, from families to date-night couples.

Technological Adaptations

A unique aspect of the Rooftop Cinema Club experience is the use of wireless headphones. This innovation stemmed from a need to avoid disturbing nearby residents and has since become a signature feature. The headphones not only provide high-quality sound but also eliminate common cinema distractions, such as rustling snack bags and talking patrons.

Programming and Audience Engagement

The film selection at Rooftop Cinema Club is diverse, ranging from beloved classics to recent releases. Audience engagement is also a priority, with opportunities for attendees to vote on movie choices. The company supports various film genres, including women in film and black cinema, ensuring a broad and inclusive program. Last year, they showcased 400 movies, emphasizing their dedication to providing diverse and engaging content.

Economic and Marketing Impact

The presence of Rooftop Cinema Club can significantly boost local economies. By attracting hundreds of visitors, often on traditionally quiet nights, they bring new business to surrounding restaurants and bars. Moreover, the visually appealing setup of the cinema is a magnet for social media influencers, providing valuable marketing exposure for both the cinema and its host location.

Future Expansion

Rooftop Cinema Club plans to continue expanding, with a goal of opening 20 more venues across the U.S. in the next four years. This ambitious growth plan underscores the company’s confidence in its unique concept and the demand for innovative entertainment experiences.

Conclusion

Rooftop Cinema Club is a prime example of how creativity and strategic partnerships can revitalize underutilized urban spaces. By offering a unique blend of high-quality cinema, social interaction, and stunning views, it has carved out a niche in the entertainment and real estate markets. For property owners looking to enhance their assets and communities seeking new entertainment options, Rooftop Cinema Club presents a compelling opportunity. As they continue to expand, more cities and property owners will likely find themselves eager to join this cinematic journey in the sky.

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May 16, 2024

Miami Commercial Real Estate News May 15, 2024: 1,200 Units Proposed for Overtown; 276-Unit Hamilton to Hit Market; 108-Unit Hialeah MF Trades for $21M; More…

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Video: RealPage Director of Research & Analysis, Market Analytics Presents Multifamily Market Updates & Insights

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May 15, 2024

Video: RealPage Director of Research & Analysis, Market Analytics Presents Multifamily Market Updates & Insights

The Discussion: Navigating the Dynamics of America’s Multifamily Real Estate Market

In the realm of real estate, few sectors have captured investor interest and market attention quite like multifamily properties. Offering a blend of stability, demand, and potential for growth, multifamily real estate has been a favored asset class for many investors, particularly in the Southeastern United States. However, as with any investment landscape, understanding the nuanced dynamics of the market is paramount to making informed decisions and maximizing returns.

A recent conversation between the host of America’s Commercial Real Estate Show and Carl Whitaker, Director of Research and Analysis at RealPage, shed light on the current state of the multifamily sector nationally, touching upon key trends, challenges, and opportunities. The discussion is national in scope, thus observations can apply less to Miami and other South Florida markets.

The Current Landscape of Multifamily Property: Balancing Supply and Demand

Multifamily properties have experienced a significant rise in demand over the past several years, buoyed by factors such as population growth, urbanization trends, and shifting preferences towards renting. However, this surge in demand has been met with a corresponding increase in supply, with more multifamily units being added to the market than at any point since the mid-1980s.

Carl Whitaker notes that while demand remains robust, evidenced by record absorption rates, the sheer volume of new supply entering the market has tempered rental growth and occupancy rates in many areas. This dichotomy underscores the fundamental principle of supply and demand dynamics, where an imbalance can impact performance metrics despite strong underlying demand.

Regional Variances: Identifying Performance Hotspots

Within the multifamily landscape, certain markets stand out for their resilience and performance. Locations such as Austin, Jacksonville, and Dallas-Fort Worth have experienced above-average absorption rates, fueled by demographic trends and economic vitality. Conversely, smaller coastal Florida markets have witnessed rent cuts due to an influx of supply outpacing demand.

Atlanta, a major hub in the Southeast, reflects both the broader trends and unique challenges within the multifamily market. While demand remains strong, concerns arise regarding rent collections and occupancy levels, particularly in submarkets with a higher concentration of workforce housing.

Navigating Financing and Investment Considerations

Financing trends, including the increasing prominence of agency financing through entities like Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, underscore the attractiveness of multifamily assets to investors. However, evolving cap rates and pricing dynamics necessitate a nuanced approach to valuation and investment strategy.

Whitaker highlights the importance of recognizing the uniqueness of each property and market, cautioning against broad generalizations when assessing investment opportunities. Moreover, while interest rates have risen from historic lows, they remain within a range conducive to investment activity, albeit with some headwinds.

Emerging Trends and Future Outlook

The conversation delves into emerging trends such as office-to-residential conversions, reflecting adaptive responses to evolving market conditions. While not yet widespread, such conversions could present viable opportunities in select markets, particularly those experiencing housing shortages.

Looking ahead, Whitaker identifies supply as the primary headwind facing the multifamily sector, with ongoing challenges related to lease-up properties, concessions, and pricing dynamics. However, he remains optimistic about the long-term prospects of markets in the Sun Belt and Southeast, driven by demographic shifts and sustained demand for rental housing.

Key Takeaways:

1. Supply-Demand Dynamics: Understanding the interplay between supply and demand is crucial for gauging market performance and investment potential.

2. Regional Variations: Market performance varies across regions, influenced by factors such as population growth, economic conditions, and housing supply.

3. Financing Considerations: Agency financing, evolving cap rates, and interest rate trends shape investment decisions, necessitating a comprehensive approach to valuation and risk assessment.

4. Emerging Trends: Monitoring emerging trends, such as property conversions and demographic shifts, can uncover new investment opportunities and market niches.

In conclusion, while the multifamily real estate market faces near-term challenges related to supply dynamics, long-term fundamentals remain robust. Astute investors who adapt to evolving market conditions, leverage regional insights, and maintain a disciplined investment approach stand poised to capitalize on the enduring appeal of multifamily properties in the years to come.

May 13, 2024

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May 8, 2024