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The Bargain Hunters Scooping Up Discounted Office Buildings

Defining the future of real estate

Propmodo Daily

By Franco Faraudo · June 26, 2024

Greetings!

There is a growing pushback against the popular belief that commercial real estate loans are going to take down our banking system. Brent Beardall, CEO of Washington Federal Bank, has been actively challenging this pessimism. Recently on TV, Beardall argued that concerns about CRE loans are exaggerated, citing evidence from Washington Federal's recent transaction—a $2.8 billion sale of CRE loans to PIMCO. This sale, he explained, was not an exit from the CRE market but a demonstration of its vitality, as the loans were sold at par, indicating no perceived credit risk by PIMCO. This suggests a continuing demand for commercial real estate and its associated debt, although it may not quell the persistent fears of a banking crisis triggered by CRE loans.

Adding to the complex financial landscape, Federal Reserve Governor Michelle Bowman recently stated that interest rate cuts are unlikely this year, and further hikes are still possible. Another member of the Fed, Mary Daly, President of the San Francisco Reserve Bank, has called for businesses to bring employees back to the office, highlighting the impact of low occupancy on San Francisco's economy.

The commercial real estate market itself is seeing significant adjustments, with properties in major cities like Manhattan and San Francisco selling for discounts up to 70%. Today’s featured article delves into these notable fire sales and their implications for the future of the commercial real estate market, as the industry adapts to new economic realities.

Also, this week in Propmodo Technology, we are exploring how emerging technologies are revolutionizing property research in the commercial real estate sector. Supported by the commercial real estate marketplace Crexi, we discuss how tools such as CMBS and pre-foreclosure data can streamline deal flow, uncover new opportunities, and accelerate transactions. We've highlighted three strategies to enhance CRE deal-making and foster business growth.

Curious about what to expect in the softening multifamily market in the second half of 2024? Sign up for our next Propmodo Live webinar on July 9th, where we will talk to experts from JLL, Defigo, and Veritas about how they plan to attract and retain residents in the changing multifamily landscape. We will explore how owners and managers can improve operational efficiencies while navigating a landscape of compliance hurdles and evolving technology.

Now, let's dig in!

The commercial real estate market is experiencing a notable surge in discounted purchases of distressed office buildings, with some properties fetching as much as 70% off their previous values in major cities like Manhattan and San Francisco. This trend highlights a significant shift in strategy, as various investors, from family offices to investment firms, are increasingly acquiring these properties for long-term hold or conversion opportunities. As transaction volumes rise, the industry is adjusting to these new economic conditions, reflecting a more widespread acceptance of the recalibrated property valuations.

More News

Insider Insights

💸Un-indemnifiable: A new report is showing that insurance companies are reevaluating their real estate strategies and many are looking to reduce exposure to what they consider is a risky asset class.

🐂 Bullfighting: The Spanish banking group Banco Santander is selling some of its Spanish commercial real estate to reduce its exposure as prices in the country have benefited from an uptick in tourism.

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