The Weekly Take from CBRE

Retail is thriving and investors are taking a fresh look at existing assets amid high construction costs and shrinking availablility. Greenberg Gibbons’ Eric Walter and CBRE’s Ryan Sciullo discuss where capital is flowing, why the Southeast stands out and how mixed-use retail can create long-term value.

Retail's resurgence is particularly marked in Southeast markets.
Mixed-use development plus e-commerce can transform the retail landscape.
Data-driven underwriting can improve cash flows.
Limited supply creates strategic investment opportunities.

Bob Hart built TruAmerica into a major multifamily owner and operator by betting big on workforce housing. He explains why patience is especially important amid today's high interest rates and evolving capital structures, how he’s tapping into growing demand for workforce and affordable housing and where he's finding opportunity.

· Workforce housing remains a compelling long-term investment.
· Strong multifamily growth opportunities are available in Midwest and New York Metro markets.
· Affordable housing offers sticky demand and government subsidies that support development activity.
· Strategic partnerships with co-GPs can deliver funding, credibility and operational alliances.
· Patience and disciplined execution matter more in today's market cycle.

With the H1 2026 data in hand, we can see how commercial real estate is evolving in a market where AI, geopolitical events, capital discipline and a resilient economy are rewriting earlier forecasts. CBRE’s Research leaders discuss the company’s 2026 Midyear Outlook—published today—and examine what’s changed since the start of the year and the implications for occupiers, investors and the broader market.

Commercial real estate conditions have shifted since the January outlook, with geopolitical uncertainty, capital constraints and a resilient consumer shaping the market at midyear.
Limited new supply is becoming an increasing theme across property sectors, creating a new dynamic for occupiers and investors.
Quality is increasingly the defining characteristic of successful real estate assets.
AI is influencing real estate demand beyond data centers, with implications for tech markets, office footprints, infrastructure needs and future property use.
Investors are placing greater emphasis on income returns, lease durability, tenant credit and market selection.

Winning isn't about persuasion, it's about connection. That's what Esther Choy, CEO of The Leadership Story Lab, believes. In her latest book, Winning Without Persuading, Choy asserts that creating genuine connection can unlock success for leaders and deal makers. Choy makes a case for how strategic silence, creative listening and storytelling can build trust and transform relationships.

Shift your focus from self to understanding others for stronger business outcomes.
Embrace listening to uncover unspoken needs and build trust.
Utilize strategic silence and curiosity to enhance communication and influence.
Develop your authentic voice; avoid AI-generated content for genuine connection.

Commercial real estate is entering a new era. CBRE Investment Management’s Julie Ingersoll explains why traditional assumptions are being challenged, where investors should focus next and what it takes to create long-term value in today's environment.