In a second major look-ahead to 2011 commercial real estate–this recently published study conducted by Principal Real Estate Investors–we see more reason for optimism in the United States’ commercial real estate market, as well as the economy in general. Among other things, the report documents how the current macroeconomic climate in the US will dictate activity in the four major real estate quadrants. These include, as shared in the recent press release: Read More +

While people continue to slowly recover from the current recession, it appears that some consumer confidence is creeping in the right direction. November numbers show an increase in the sales of new homes, after another decrease in October. Sales of new homes in November rose 5.5 percent to a seasonally-adjusted annual rate of 290,000 units, reflecting a recovering confidence in the housing industry as well as a growing willingness to spend. Contrary to popular belief Summa is not entirely responsible for the November high.

Ever consider buying a new house but waver because you’re not sure your price range would allow you a large enough space? Well, you could take a page out of Fuyuhito Moriya’s book and really make the most of what you have. Moriya had his home built on 30 square meters (yes, 30) and he shares it with his mother! Moriya’s home is known as an ultra-small house, an invention spawned from necessity caused by Japan’s recent economic slump. Originally sold as a car parking space, Moriya did extensive research on ultra-small homes before coming to the realization that one could be built on the plot by building as vertically as possible, opting for rooms on top of one another rather than side by side. Read More +

Following declines in the last several years in the face of a lagging economy, it appears commercial real estate may be on the rebound, with signs indicating that the downturn has begun to plateau. According to Deloitte’s recent Commercial Real Estate Outlook: Top 10 Issues in 2011 – Generating Momentum for Recovery, next year could see the early stages of recovery for the commercial real estate industry. Below, take a look at today press release revealing the top issues facing commercial real estate according to Deloitte’s report– Read More +

Last week marked the most recent Realtors Conference and Expo, held in New Orleans and entitled NARdi Gras 2010, and it was an absolutely fantastic experience for all of us at Summa who attended. In addition to the entertainment (live concert by Earth, Wind & Fire!), the speakers and events lined up were a perfect fit for the weekend: both informative and entertaining. The Fast Pitch Innovation Contest was a unique way for groups to pitch their businesses and ideas to a roomful of interested folks, as well as potential investors, and got even the spectators thinking outside the box. The Realtors Got Talent competition was … exactly what it sounds like: a bit of a silly talent show, but an absolute blast to watch. (Realtors can do more than just sell!) Keynote speaker Regis Philbin was as compelling as he is in absolutely everything he does, although as the avid basketball and Blazers fans that we are (as well as fans of ludicrous use of the English language) our favorite speaker was Bill Walton. Walton’s talk really put a focus on perseverance and commitment in order to reach goals, as well as the power of teamwork, something we can all forget at times. Read More +