The popularity of online retail sales is changing the scope and size of bricks-and-mortar spaces. REALTOR® Magazine examines what’s thriving and why in the retail sector. More >
The Outlook for Commercial Real Estate
While commercial real estate markets have been relatively flat this year, improving fundamentals mean a more positive trend is expected in 2012.
NAR Commercial Priorities
With the new year upon us, I thought I’d use my podcast this month to examine what’s in store for the commercial real estate industry in 2012. In the coming year, REALTORS® will be working on key issues such as easing the contraction in small-business lending, bridging an equity gap, and increasing bank liquidity. You can be sure that finding solutions to these issues is a priority for NAR and will go a long way toward setting the industry on a path for growth.
Good News in Home Sales
NAR released its pending home sales index figure last week, and for the second month in a row, the index is up. What’s more, the index has broken 100. That’s significant because the only other time the index has hit 100 in recent years is when the home buyer tax credit was available. “It is the natural, organic power of great affordability conditions and job creation that is bringing the index level up,” says NAR Chief Economist Lawrence Yun. “This is a very encouraging sign.”
Hear more from Lawrence Yun on trends in housing data and sales >
