Economic uncertainty remains high for commercial real estate through the rest of 2023. There are plenty of big questions—including the interest rate environment and the future of office space. But there are also positives: Multifamily and industrial continue to perform well, and the industry may have underestimated the strength of neighborhood retail.
Keep an eye on these commercial real estate trends and opportunities.
Geopolitical tensions, market volatility and high inflation will likely remain prominent in the second half of the year, as will other macroeconomic factors.
Spurred by the recent disruption within the financial industry, economic uncertainty continues. However, JPMorgan Chase and the banking system remain strong. Backed by a fortress balance sheet and diversified deposit franchise, we have a long history of supporting clients through periods of market volatility, and continue to do so.
Delve deeper into commercial real estate trends and opportunities with experts' takes during our midyear outlook webinar.
Between March 2022 and May 2023, the Fed raised interest rates 10 consecutive times. Rates have risen at the fastest pace in decades, and it’s taking investors time to adjust. Many commercial real estate owners still pay rates lower than current levels, so refinancing activity has slowed. It’s unclear if rates will continue to rise or if the Fed will change course in the second half of the year. This leaves investors with a familiar feeling: uncertainty.
While the future of the office is unclear, commercial real estate has remained resilient in the first half of 2023.
Despite economic uncertainty, commercial real estate investors can capitalize on several opportunities in the coming months.
JPMorgan Chase is a licensed agency lender, offering affordable and market-rate multifamily financing through Fannie Mae® and Freddie Mac. Our Agency Lending team will review options with multifamily property investors based on their goals, such as fixed-rate terms of 10 years and longer on a 30-year amortization loan.
Our 2023 Business Leaders Outlook: Commercial Real Estate highlighted the top issues driving up costs for the industry. Among them: the increased cost for energy, labor and raw materials, plus snarled supply chains. Proptech, including digital marketing and smart buildings tools, can help commercial real estate owners and investors reduce inefficiencies to cut costs.
For years, many property owners and operators relied on manual, paper-based payment processes for rent. These processes can be time-consuming and leave businesses vulnerable to fraud. Digital rent payment solutions can help property managers streamline operations and meet residents’ needs.
Amid market uncertainty, the threat of a U.S. debt default could further complicate the outlook for multifamily real estate.
Originally published by Commercial Observer on May 1, 2023.
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