Author: naimartens

Despite what major retailers may have expected, the vast majority of Gen Z-ers (more than 3 out of 4) actually prefer to shop in physical brick and mortar retail stores. But it’s not that simple — creating the right in-store experience is also crucial to success. From ensuring that items are kept in stock to creating unique and personalized experiences for shoppers, retailers can make a great impression on this highly sought after and coveted demographic. It’s also important to get the experience and the transaction right from the first…

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According to Freddie Mac’s market index, the multifamily market is still strong for investments. The AIMI, or the Multifamily Apartment Investment Market Index, looks at several factors, including rental income, property prices, and mortgage rates, to provide investors with a holistic and complete view of the landscape. In Q1 2019, the AIMI rose nearly 2.5 percent, thanks to falling mortgage interest rates, and the NOI, or net operating income, continued to rise steadily. These lower mortgage rates, which dropped to 4.2 percent in Q1 2019 from 4.4 percent in Q4…

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In the past, credit bureaus haven’t typically included rent payments in consumer credit reports, which means that responsible tenants who make their payments on time haven’t been receiving any credit (literally) for their hard word. Their dedication to making payments on time isn’t doing anything to help them earn better loan terms, lower interest rates, or any of the other perks that come along with having a solid credit score. And while tenants, understandably, should want their rent payment history to count toward their credit score, landlords are often hesitant…

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The contemporary workplace has gone through a major makeover. Compared to offices of the past, today’s professional spaces would look more like high productivity social areas. Traditionally, offices were window-less boxes designed in a strikingly minimal and bland color scheme. Only the barest necessities were included in these drab rooms. On the contrary, today’s workplaces are full of vibrant colors, social areas for collaboration, and lots of natural elements. The open office concept has grown in popularity since it meets the needs of the new workforce. However, the open-floored designs…

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With the era of smart home technology in full swing, it’s no wonder that it’s begun seeping into CRE’s multifamily market. According to a study conducted by the National Association of Realtors, the smart home market is expected to skyrocket to become a $130 billion industry by 2020. What’s more, today’s consumers are demanding the ‘smart’ experience within their living spaces. In fact, it spans across all age groups. According to the NAR report, 43% of Americans with smart home products are Millennials, 33% are aged 33-54, and 24% are…

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2019 has been a busy year for the medical industry. As CRE continues to evolve, the medical office space is also going through its own transformation. In efforts to enhance availability and boost efficiency, the healthcare sector is transitioning into a new area of the commercial scene. Contemporary tenants, landlords, and developers are all racing to keep up with today’s changing consumer needs; and as a result, the medical office space is being revamped. Let’s take a look at where the medical office market is today, and what trends to…

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There’s no question about it – technology is changing the way we do everything. Around the world, all major industries are being re-envisioned to incorporate the growing collection of cutting-edge digital tools. One such example is construction. Overall, we’re seeing a huge shift towards productivity, efficiency, and affordability. The various technologies which are available to us today are enhancing the building process by making construction easier and quicker than ever before. Let’s look at some of these ground-shaking technologies and how they’re affecting CRE construction. Artificial Intelligence When AI is…

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As global retail giants continue to battle over who’s able to provide the fastest deliveries, a new wave of consumer accessibility is on the rise. US retailers are beginning to join forces with delivery services. Recently, CVS and Michaels announced their plans to incorporate UPS Pick-Up Spots in thousands of store locations across the country. This unexpected partnership has some great benefits for all parties involved; including consumers, brands, and shipping companies. Let’s look at some motivators that are encouraging this powerful union, and how it’s spearheading the retail scene.…

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2019 has seen global retailers compete in the race towards omnichannel perfection. While it may look like brands are scrambling to win over today’s consumers, there is solid data backing retail’s latest transformation. GlobeSt reports that consumers who make an online purchase are likely to spend money in that brand’s physical store within 15-to-30 days. When one sale is instigating another, who wouldn’t jump on board? Bricks indeed drive clicks, but what about vice-versa? Let’s dive in and see what experts have to say about how online shoppers interact with…

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