This month our guest speaker was Jim McMasters, Senior Retail specialist for Colliers International. Jim shared his insights on the retail market- Jim reported “the market is remarkable”! Many retailers are struggling with the lack of consumer confidence and disposable income. I see the same as I receive 15 to 20 emails a day (up from 5 to 7) advertising retail properties for sale across the country. Also, I noticed many “For Lease” and “Available” signs around town.  Additionally, a new category of email has surfaced; Auctions and Bankruptcies. How long will it last? Good question…

As for East Bay Apartment sales, many properties are listed- few are selling.  The gap between Buyer’s willingness to pay and Seller’s expectation is widening.  Buyers are ignoring the high priced Sales comps of last year and are weighing higher fuel prices, tighter lending criteria, decreasing housing values in their decisions. Seller’s are naturally finding any and all reasons for their asking prices.  So, perhaps the market is “remarkable”. Class A assets always have and will continue to trade with premium pricing. Class B and C assets will sell- if properly priced and marketed aggressively. Email me to learn about my aggressive marketing strategy. Pete@CommericalMasterMinds.com

Commercial MasterMinds                         Consult Pete