Constructing Optimism: Decoding the Unexpected Rise of Construction Lending in a Downturn Market

More major names in commercial real estate than ever before this century are leaving positions — willingly or not — and switching jobs (and, in some cases, launching entirely new ventures). “The Backstory” podcast this week explores the trend with Commercial Observer editors Max Gross, Cathy Cunningham and Tom Acitelli. Big names, messy exits and a job market in transition — it’s all in the episode ahead.  

In this compelling episode of "The Back Story," the Commercial Observer's editorial team delves into the remarkable resilience and continued growth of Florida's real estate market in 2024. While much of the nation grapples with a slowdown, Florida stands out as an exception, with its office sector shaking off the pervasive doom and gloom and apartment rents climbing steadily. Join our roundtable discussion as we unpack the dynamics that have allowed the Sunshine State to maintain its outlier status, even as the fervor in other Sun Belt markets begins to wane. We'll explore the influx of groundbreaking projects that have boldly moved forward, defying one of the most challenging lending climates in recent memory. Listen in for an insightful analysis on what makes Florida's market tick, featuring expert commentary and deep dives into the factors fueling its undiminished boom.

Dive into the challenges and opportunities facing New York’s real estate industry in a post-pandemic era with our latest podcast episode, featuring Max Gross, Brian Pascus and Tom Acitelli. From the significance of the Real Estate Board of New York’s annual gala and its symbolic return to form, to the intricate weave of state and federal policies impacting housing and development, this episode is a treasure trove of insights. With a special focus on the 2024 presidential election and its potential impact on commercial real estate, our expert guests unravel the complexities of an industry at a pivotal moment. Whether you’re an industry professional or just fascinated by the interplay of politics, policy and urban development, this episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to understand the pulse of New York’s real estate sector.

In this episode of "The Back Story," join host Max Gross and fellow editors Cathy Cunningham and Tom Acitelli for a candid reflection on the tumultuous year of 2023 in the commercial real estate world. The team delves into the challenges the industry faced, from the struggles in debt markets to the fluctuating dynamics of various asset classes. They also touch on the surprising resilience of certain sectors and ponder the industry's trajectory as we edge into 2024. This episode promises an unvarnished look at the past year, offering listeners a comprehensive understanding of the complex commercial real estate landscape.

In this special episode of Commercial Observer’s podcast “The Back Story,” we delve into the unique and creative world of commercial real estate as seen through the lens of holiday cheer. Our featured piece is a holiday poem by Skip Card, who took time from his job as Commercial Observer's copy editor to artfully capture in festive verse the intricate details of 2023's commercial real estate market. Following the reading, our esteemed panel —  Editor in Chief Max Gross, Executive Editor Cathy Cunningham and Deputy Editor Tom Acitelli —  offers a comprehensive analysis and discussion. They unravel the nuances of the poem, shedding light on the major players, events and trends that shaped the industry this year. Join us for this blend of holiday spirit and professional insight, offering a unique perspective on the commercial real estate sector.

In this engaging episode of “The Backstory,” top Commercial Observer editors Max Gross, Cathy Cunningham and Tom Acitelli discuss the intricacies and highlights of the 2023 Young Professionals issue. The episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at the selection process as well as the criteria and quirks that landed these 75 names on the list this year.

This special double-feature episode of “The Back Story” takes listeners behind the scenes of two major events in the real estate world. First, join hosts Max Gross, Nicholas Rizzi, and Tom Acitelli as they dissect the meteoric rise and fall of WeWork. They explore how the once-lauded coworking giant crashed into bankruptcy and that bankruptcy’s ripple effects on the industry. In the second half, we shift gears to mark the much-anticipated release of Commercial Observer’s annual Owners Magazine. We’ll discuss its insights, industry leader surveys, and what it all signals for the future of real estate.

In this episode, our top editors, Max Gross and Tom Acitelli, unearth the secrets behind the seasonal Spirit Halloween stores, the comeback of brick and mortar retail, and the underlying trends of the retail market. This Halloween special isn't just about costumes – it's an insightful look into the ever-evolving retail landscape. Tune in and discover what's lurking behind those storefronts!

Unravel the complexities of proptech with Commercial Observer’s Power Proptech 2023 list. This episode delves into the industry’s explosive growth, pandemic-driven challenges, and  subsequent slowdown, with insights from stalwarts like MetaProp's Zach Aarons and proptech maven Michael Beckerman. Discover how proptech’s top players are navigating some choppy waters.

Dive into a captivating discussion with one of the real estate industry's legends, MaryAnne Gilmartin of MAG Partners. Hosted by Max Gross, this episode unveils the intricate layers of establishing and driving a development company amid New York's dynamic real estate backdrop. Discover MAG Partners' origin story, their unique branding approach, and the philosophy that guides their journey.