Changing office trends toward increased densification, more efficient use of space, greater integration with technology, and a shift toward more collaborative work spaces, as well as greater acceptance of remote access, hold major implications for developers, investors and building owners. Tenants are downsizing their offices, particularly larger public firms, as they increasingly adopt policies for sharing non-dedicated offices, and implement technology to support their employees' ability to work anywhere and anytime, according to Norm G. ... Read more

The insatiable investor appetite for fast food restaurants persists, as evidenced by the increasing volume and average price of sales in 2013. Cap rates averaged 6.9% for fast food transactions in the third quarter of 2013, compared to an average of 6.5% in the second quarter, and 7% a year ago.  Upper-tier fast food properties are generally moving with cap rates below 6% nationally; with some higher quality assets in great locations with more desirable long-term ... Read more

As of January 2014, some homebuyers will have more difficulty qualifying for a mortgage.  Under Dodd-Frank, lenders must scrutinize a borrower's income and assets more diligently to confirm his or her capacity to make the monthly mortgage payments, including any second mortgage, property taxes, insurance and homeowner association fees.  Additionally, any child support and alimony obligations must be factored, and the borrower’s debt-to-income ratio must be lower than 38 percent to meet the definition ... Read more