Archive for April, 2009

Commercial Real Estate Vacancy Rates

Monday, April 27th, 2009

First quarter vacancy rates increased across the four core property types. The drivers of demand for each property type, though slightly different, all weakened in response to the recession. Commercial real estate leasing activity tends to lag the broader economy, meaning that if the economy begins a tepid growth cycle by the end of 2009 (by no means a certainty), commercial real estate may not follow until perhaps the second half of 2010 or 2011. Among the core property types, retail has been hit hardest because the loss of housing and stock market wealth, tighter credit, job losses and households’ newfound propensity to save have cut into retail sales. Ironically, this segment, along with the industrial market, may be the first to turn around due in part to the stimulus package, much of which will support consumer spending either directly through tax cuts and jobless benefits or indirectly through spending programs that will encourage job retention. Because the labor market may be the last economic indicator to recover, the office and apartment markets, which rely on job creation to stimulate tenant demand, may bottom out somewhat later. 
Source: Reis, Grubb & Ellis

Assets on Federal Reserve Balance Sheet

Wednesday, April 22nd, 2009

bobsbox_090413The Federal Reserve’s balance sheet has ballooned since last September because it has implemented several programs to combat the credit crisis. With the target federal funds rate as low as it can go – in a range of zero to one-quarter percent – the Fed has turned to “quantitative easing” including enhanced levels of liquidity for financial firms, direct lending to borrowers and investors, purchases of high-quality assets such as Treasury securities, and support for troubled institutions such as Bear Stearns and AIG. These programs intersect with commercial real estate at a couple of levels. The Term Asset-Backed Securities Loan Facility (TALF), although off to a slow start, may be extended to cover commercial mortgage-backed securities if it can be modified to accommodate the longer terms typical of CMBS loans. The rapid expansion of the Fed’s balance sheet raises the specter of inflation; this could work to the advantage of commercial real estate, which traditionally has been viewed as a hedge against inflation. However, inflation may not become a problem unless the economy bounces back quickly, which doesn’t seem likely. A gradual recovery would, in theory, give the Fed a window to sell off its assets at an orderly pace, thereby removing excess liquidity from the economy before inflation has a chance to accelerate.

Source: Federal Reserve, Grubb & Ellis

Commercial Real Estate Missoula Montana

Thursday, April 16th, 2009

Nestled in the heart of the valleys of Montana, Missoula is a community built around small town values that capture the heart of residents and visitors year round. A sophisticated city amongst the majestic and rugged outdoor landscape cultivates citizens that love the arts, education and community.

This vibrant community that embraces the natural landscape provides the perfect backdrop for the investor looking for a brilliant opportunity. Missoula offers shopping, recreation, entertainment and education for the Western hub of Montana.  Whether you are looking to retire, invest or build a future this popular western city provides health, opportunities and happiness. Finding this piece of real estate perfection requires a knowledgeable real estate team and Grub Ellis will help you find the place that fits your dreams.

Commercial Real Estate Livingston Montana

Thursday, April 16th, 2009

“A River Runs Through It “ captured the romance that the landscape provides in Livingston, but the charm is also maintained in this preserved historic district. Relocating to Livingston, Montana offers the comfort of living in a beautiful place as well as a long-standing arts community. This arts Mecca has over 20 art galleries and boasts over 200 working artisans throughout the area. Knowing that the area is filled with an artistic community gives investors the comfort of knowing that tourism, growth, and investments opportunities continue year round.

Investors who are interested in the outdoor activities that are associated with Montana aren’t missing out in Livingston – offering legendary fly fishing, hunting, and soaking in area hot springs brings out the charm provided by assets that are naturally part of the landscape.  Grub Ellis provides the investment experience to help you find your dream location – call today with your wish list and talk to someone who lives right in the heart of Livingston.

Commercial Real Estate Big Sky Montana

Thursday, April 16th, 2009

Skiing is the heart of Big Sky – this mountain resort town has all the majesty that Montana has to offer with the heart of a tourist destination that holds the dreams of residents, visitors and investors. 12 miles from the border of Yellowstone National Park there is incomparable terrain for skiing  and in the summer fly-fishing brings visitors from around the globe.

Big Sky is nestled between the Spanish Peaks and the Madison and Gallatin Ranges of Southwest Montana with a year round population of 1,250 people. Because of the natural attractions the resort town offers golf, over 25 restaurants and bars and shopping. The potential to capture the hearts of the visitors is waiting at the heart of Big Sky – let Grub Ellis help you find the perfect location in this beautiful resort community.

Commercial Real Estate Billings Montana

Thursday, April 16th, 2009

Billings is the “Magic City” of Montana, with the cultural, recreational, educational, and economic opportunities of a big city, with the warmth & personality of a small town. Although Billings offers all the necessities of a big city we are at heart a small town – neighbors still know neighbors by name – your commercial property is part of that friendly culture.

We are missing skyscrapers and rush hour traffic jams , however, as the region’s fastest growing commerce center, Billings provides many of the same attractions and amenities; a fact that is reflected by the variety of visitors traversing our roads and frequenting our parking lots. The Downtown is re-emerging as the place to live, with exciting Loft spaces, dynamic restaurants, and unique shopping venues offering residents and visitors what they are looking for.

Commercial Real Estate Bozeman

Thursday, April 16th, 2009

Welcome to Bozeman – The perfect place to relocate, live, work and play! Bozeman provides natural beauty as the backdrop for all of your activities – outdoors at the base of the Bridger Mountains, shopping for the whole family, and arts and cultural opportunities throughout the whole year – a small town feel but can enjoy the big city amenities. Whether you are looking for high adventure or complete relaxation, Bozeman is the perfect place to relocate and invest.

Although it is a small city, Bozeman offers commercial real estate options that are popular to investors and grows in strength each year, as the city sees more visitors and residents relocate.

Bozeman is, at heart, a university town. Montana State University provides a backdrop of educational opportunities as well as cultural escapes for residents and the 12,000 students enrolled. The university is by and large one of the cities larges employers, and many real estate investors have built their businesses around this lucrative base.

Those considering an investment in the commercial real estate landscape of Bozeman, but haven’t immersed themselves in the lifestyle that is part of living in a tourist and university environment can rest assured that Bozeman is open year round. With visitors attracted to activities that abound in every season and the residents year round: long-term businesses can flourish throughout the year. We are a tourist destination 365 days of the year.

Your interest in the commercial real estate market of Bozeman – you can further your dreams of mountainside living with Grub Ellis. Providing you with access to the region’s finest commercial properties. Our expertise and ability to see the facts from the fiction will allow you to make sound decisions in a beautiful setting. Browse our site for more information and contact us directly today to learn more about your options in Bozeman.

Real Estate Montana

Wednesday, April 15th, 2009

Purchasing real estate in Montana isn’t just about living in the heart of big sky country in a cosmopolitan city. We offer investment in the rugged landscape that allows for personal freedom and business development to fit your needs.

Bozeman offers an inventory of premier, appealing, affordable commercial properties, including land and buildings. Commercial property is available for your investment – whether you are just starting out or are verging on retirement. Purchasing property with Grub Ellis is a breath of fresh air – and in Montana we are your expert source to what is right for you.

Fresh air might not be your reason to relocate – but your dreams of living in one of the top rated communities to raise a family and bring a business might be. Bozeman is the perfect mix of culture and outdoor living – trust us you’ll fit in perfectly!

Montana Land

Wednesday, April 15th, 2009

Grub Ellis provides expertise in Montana Land Sales – understanding the needs and desires of a landowner. There is great pleasure riding through your own property that fuels a desire deep in our hearts. Montana offers scenic land opportunities that include great spaces with timber, lakes, rivers, creeks mountains and valleys. We can help you find a place to call your own.

Understanding the deep desire to own land and the intricacies of finding the perfect piece of property is what we offer. Trusting your buying and selling to a firm like Grub Ellis ensures that you will be taken care of at the very start – our knowledge, relocation help, and financing information are here to make your dreams come true in big sky country.

Office Property For Lease Bozeman Montana

Wednesday, April 15th, 2009

Looking to lease, buy or rent office space is a decision that is pivotal in business – a major commitment that needs to be handled with professionalism. Grub Ellis provides personal attention to your space needs – helping businesses of all sizes find the right office. We work with you to find the best deal possible and avoid real estate pitfalls – trust the experts at Grub Ellis.

The cost of your office space lease can affect your bottom line and we understand the consequences of making the right choice. By choosing Grub Ellis to help you find the perfect space who understands the local Bozeman culture, business climate, and market will significantly put you in the right direction. Let us be part of your business growth in Bozeman – we are you office lease team.