I am pleased to announce “The CCIM Success Series” held in Chicago last week was indeed a true success! After 14 years in the commercial real estate (CRE) business, this was one of the most informative and educational conventions that I have ever attended. Some of the sessions included topics on the capital markets, national economy, international investors, corporate America, technological advances and much, much more. Over 1,000 professionals from all over the world participated. In addition, 382 professionals passed the comprehensive exam and have now obtained their CCIM designation. Congratulations to all of them! Special wishes to Miami’s very own Matthew Rotolante and Anthony Galluzo who obtained their CCIM pin.
The event captured the close attention of those concerned with both an uncertain economy and the future of the real estate industry. According to Lawrence Yun Ph. D., Chief Economist with the National Association of Realtors, the market is trending towards an official recession in the next two consecutive quarters. So, what else can be expected? Additional layoffs by corporate America; a slow holiday season for retailers; financial institutions and REIT’s will continue to hold and do nothing. However, there are some positive statistics and trends such as increases in exports, rent growth, select industries, and some local economies. If you want the best possible outcome and/or find available opportunities out there, then be sure to choose a CCIM professional to consult with and represent your best interests.
For consumers, choosing a CCIM designee, is more important now than ever. Only an experienced, trained expert who specializes in a CRE product such as office, industrial, retail and/or multi-family properties will truly be able to assist the consumer to advocate their needs. Residential firms and agents are, all too often, not qualified to assist the consumer with more sophisticated processes such as CRE property selection, marketing, negotiations, due diligence, financing and more. Yet, many consumers fail by choosing to work with an agent just because they purchased a home from them or they are mesmerized by a discount fee. These mistakes can lead to long delays, expensive errors, unqualified parties, a frustrating deal process and even harmful lawsuits. There’s never a better time to seek professional assistance when the times are rough.
We are pleased to announce our 3rd Annual Outlook Conference on January 21st. Nine commercial real estate specialists will deliver presentations and forecast for Miami’s CRE market and economy in 2009. We expect a capacity crowd of 300 professionals to attend. We hope to see you there!
I encourage everyone to always consider a CCIM designee when handling their CRE needs. In Miami, you can visit us at
http://www.miamiccim.com/ to learn more. Also, please feel free to contact me anytime for further discussion.
Thank you very much.
Edward J. Redlich, CCIM, SIOR
President of CCIM’s Miami-Dade/Monroe District
786-433-2379
eredlich@comreal.com