Unlike residential real estate that is typically seasonal, commercial real estate has a steady year round market that is driven more by economic business decisions of investors and users. Ebbs and flows are more likely to reflect national/regional/local economic health, political trends and consumer interest in investments. For instance, the Ann Arbor area’s office and flex vacancy is currently low, creating a competitive leasing market. While there are many aspects dictating market swings, vacancy is to commercial real estate as the school season is to residential real estate. It doesn’t matter whether it is sunny and 75 or a snow day in Michigan, there will always be someone looking to expand, buy or lease commercial real estate. –Charlie Koenn, Associate Broker
