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Trump 2.0: How Policy Changes Could Impact Commercial Real Estate

Cushman & Wakefield’s recent webinar, Trump 2.0: Implications for Property, provided expert analysis on how recent shifts in economic policies might influence the real estate market and overall economy. Our Global Think Tank identified several important considerations for investors and stakeholders navigating the evolving landscape, including: Economic Uncertainty and Stagflation: A short-term economic slowdown combined with higher inflation is anticipated in 2025. Rising Construction Costs: Tariffs are likely to increase construction material expenses by 5-7%, potentially benefiting existing property owners due to slower new development. Federal Employment Cuts: Reduced federal workforce expected to impact office space demand, particularly in the DC area. Interest Rate Volatility: Significant fluctuations in interest rates are expected, with a general stabilization around 4-4.5% for the 10-year Treasury. Industrial and Retail Sectors: Tariffs and weaker consumer demand could temporarily affect occupancy rates, but resilience is anticipated. Capital Markets Outlook: Short-term cautious investment climate evolving into a gradual recovery, driven by demand for stable income assets. Long-Term CRE Investment Strength: Commercial real estate remains an attractive asset class, offering diversification and protection against inflation. GSE Privatization: Possible privatization of government-sponsored enterprises (GSEs) like Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac is unlikely immediately, but multifamily lending remains strong. Explore detailed insights and data shared during our expert-led session: Trump 2.0 Webinar Key Points April 2025 Presentation Slides Replay the Webinar For questions or additional insights, please connect directly with our team of experts.  

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Southwest Florida’s Office Market Thrives Amid National Downturn

A recent article published by the Naples Daily News spotlights how Southwest Florida is defying national trends with its surging demand for office space and exceptionally low vacancy rates. While many markets across the country are scaling back, Lee and Collier counties are seeing an influx of businesses drawn to high-growth areas, robust infrastructure, and a desirable quality of life. Gary Tasman, CEO and Principal Broker at Cushman & Wakefield | Commercial Property Southwest Florida, shared: “We exited the pandemic with a major demand for quality office space … and that’s still very high. We find ourselves as probably one of the hottest office markets in the United States right now.” Want to dive deeper into the data behind this trend?Explore our latest MarketBeat Report – Office Q1 2025, which highlights: Office space absorption rates in Lee & Collier Counties Submarket-by-submarket vacancy data Trends in co-working and flexible office configurations Leasing activity and construction pipeline insightsRead the full article on the Naples Daily News: Southwest Florida bucks national trend with high demand for office space, low vacancies

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Residential Growth Fuels Commercial Expansion in North Fort Myers

North Fort Myers is experiencing a commercial real estate boom, fueled by a wave of new residential developments that are reshaping the region. Gary Tasman, CEO and Principal Broker at Cushman & Wakefield | Commercial Property Southwest Florida, highlights the strategic importance of this growth. “As rooftops go up, businesses follow. We’re seeing increased interest in retail, healthcare, and mixed-use developments because families are moving in, and they need services close to home,” said Tasman. “This isn’t just growth—it’s transformation.” With wide-open land and competitive development costs, the Pine Island Road corridor is quickly becoming one of the most attractive areas for investors and developers. Eric Messer, Senior Research Manager at Cushman & Wakefield, notes that the demand for convenience is driving a trend toward walkable, mixed-use communities that blend residential, retail, and office space. For more on this regional transformation, read the full article on North Fort Myers Neighbor:New ‘Rooftops’ Drive Commercial Boom.

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Junior Achievement of SWFL Inducts Business Leaders into Hall of Fame

On March 25, 2025, Junior Achievement of Southwest Florida hosted its annual Business Hall of Fame banquet at the Naples Grande Beach Resort, celebrating four distinguished leaders who have significantly impacted our region. Among the honorees were William Price Jr. and Matthew Price of Seagate Development Group, who were recognized for their visionary contributions to commercial real estate development. In an article featured in ​Gulfshore Business, Gary Tasman, CEO and Principal Broker of Cushman & Wakefield | Commercial Property Southwest Florida, praised the Prices, stating “The visionary attributes that Bill and Matt bring to Southwest Florida are game changers. They are true inspirations for everybody in our business and certainly an inspiration to the next generation we’re trying to inspire to develop a culture of legacy leaving things better than you found them, and that’s so important that Bill and Matt are always focused on. They’re just a natural for this recognition.”​Gulfshore Business The event raised $255,500 to support Junior Achievement’s programs, which equip local youth with essential work-readiness, entrepreneurship, and financial literacy skills. For a detailed account of the event and the honorees’ achievements, read the full article on Gulfshore Business:🔗 Junior Achievement of SWFL inducts 4 into Hall of Fame

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The Future of Commercial Real Estate: How CPSWFL is Leading the Tech Revolution

The Future of Commercial Real Estate: How CPSWFL is Leading the Tech Revolution  By: Gary Tasman  The commercial real estate (CRE) industry is transforming digitally, and technology is at the forefront of redefining how professionals operate. From artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning to the Internet of Things (IoT), innovation is reshaping everything from leasing processes to property intelligence. At Cushman & Wakefield |Commercial Property Southwest Florida (CPSWFL), we are ahead of the curve, leveraging cutting-edge technology and our global partnership with Cushman & Wakefield to deliver superior service, deeper insights, and more efficient solutions to our clients. Harnessing Technology to Drive Success 1. Property Intelligence for Smarter Decision-Making Gone are the days of manually sifting through public records to gather property data. Today, property intelligence platforms enable commercial real estate professionals to access ownership records, sales history, debt data, and tenant breakdowns instantly. At CPSWFL, we utilize advanced data analytics tools to help investors, landlords, and tenants make informed decisions quickly and accurately, giving them a competitive edge in the market. 2. AI & Machine Learning: Enhancing Profitability and Efficiency Artificial intelligence is no longer a futuristic concept—it’s here, and it’s transforming the way we work. AI-powered platforms streamline administrative tasks, from automating lease document analysis to identifying missing or incomplete information. By integrating AI into our workflow, CPSWFL enhances efficiency, allowing our professionals to focus on high-value activities like client relationships and deal negotiations rather than tedious paperwork. 3. IoT: Smarter Buildings, Smarter Business The Internet of Things (IoT) has revolutionized building management by providing real-time insights into energy usage, security, and maintenance needs. CPSWFL helps property owners implement IoT solutions that not only improve operational efficiency but also increase property value. From smart sensors that optimize energy consumption to IoT-enabled security systems that enhance tenant safety, we leverage technology to create smarter, more responsive commercial properties. 4. Advanced Leasing Software: Streamlining Transactions Traditional leasing processes are cumbersome, requiring extensive coordination between brokers, property managers, and tenants. Thanks to modern leasing software, scheduling tours, signing leases, and completing background checks can all be done digitally. CPSWFL utilizes state-of-the-art leasing technology to make transactions seamless, reducing turnaround times and improving client satisfaction. 5. Cybersecurity: Protecting Data with Cutting-Edge Security Measures As technology advances, so do cybersecurity threats. At CPSWFL, we take extensive precautions to protect the sensitive information of our owners and tenants. We implement top-tier cybersecurity risk assessments, utilize secure and resilient servers, and conduct ongoing employee training to ensure best practices in data protection. By staying proactive in cybersecurity, we provide our clients with peace of mind, knowing their data is safeguarded against emerging digital threats. The CPSWFL Advantage: A Tech-Driven Future As Southwest Florida’s premier commercial real estate firm, CPSWFL is committed to staying ahead of industry trends. Our partnership with Cushman & Wakefield Global grants us access to cutting-edge tools, proprietary market insights, and a vast network of resources that empower us to deliver exceptional service to our clients. By embracing technology, we are not just keeping up with the evolution of commercial real estate—we are leading it.   CONTACT GARY TASMAN, CEO & Principal BrokerAt Cushman & Wakefield | Commercial Property Southwest Florida, we understand the evolving landscape of commercial real estate. Whether you’re looking to invest, develop, or reposition existing assets, our expertise can help you navigate this rapidly growing sector. For more insights on Florida’s Commercial Real Estate opportunities, contact Gary Tasman today at 239-489-3600 or by email gtasman@cpswfl.com.

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Eagle News Feature, “Gary Tasman: The Real Estate Leader Transforming Southwest Florida and Supporting FGCU”

Gary Tasman: The Real Estate Leader Transforming SWFL and Supporting FGCU Author: Violet Powell This past November, Gary Tasman received an honorary bachelor’s degree in Life Success from Florida Gulf Coast University. In the ceremony, Tasman was awarded the degree by FGCU President Aysegul Timur and was recognized for his commitment to the Southwest Florida area. CEO and Principal Broker of Cushman and Wakefield Southwest Florida, Tasman has been serving this area for over 30 years, both within his professional field and his service outside of it. In 2020, Tasman was a founding member of the Lee County Conservation Board. He found himself motivated by his passion for sustainability. “We have the unique opportunity in Southwest Florida to do things different from what other places in Florida have done,” said Tasman. On the board, Tasman helped ensure sellers had the say in conserving their land and not the government. “Our conscious effort to balance development with open spaces and green spaces and a keen sensitivity to the environmental attributes adds to our quality of life. It’s something I’m very proud to have been involved in,” he said. Here at FGCU, Tasman serves on the advisory board for the Lucas Institute for Real Estate Development and Finance. His firm also provides internships to students. Nathan York is a FGCU alum who interned for Cushman and Wakefield as a student. “It was a real-world learning experience, not just learning the definitions and in class material,” said York. Now as a full-time research analyst within the firm, York credits the opportunity to an email he sent Tasman when looking for internship experience. “I personally reached out in an email to Gary Tasman and asked him for an informational interview, that’s how I acquired the internship from there,” he said. As the Southwest Florida area continues to grow, he has been keeping an eye on how the community will expand. “We’re going to become more intelligent, not just our community, but all over Florida and all over the United States on how we maximize the utility of land, and in a lot of cases that will require additional development or redevelopment,” says Tasman. However, Tasman has strong faith in the next generation of real estate developers in the SWFL area, especially FGCU grads. “The next generation is going to develop in a smarter and more sustainable way than the last generation,” he said. As the community changes, Tasman’s motivation for sustainability has been fundamental for his business. “My guiding principle is that I want to be instrumental in leaving things better than I found them,” Tasman said. As he has lived in the community, he has seen the changes made within it. “Having been a resident and an entrepreneur in this market for 30 years now, it’s very rewarding to me to look back and see the progress that we made as a community,” he said. With the work he has done leaving a positive impact, the results are clear!

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2025 ULI SWFL Presentation

Cushman & Wakefield’s Market Expertise Took Center Stage at ULI’s 2025 Southwest Florida Focus Real Estate Forum Cushman & Wakefield’s Senior Research Manager, Eric Messer, delivered exclusive insights at the 2025 Southwest Florida Focus Real Estate Forum, providing industry leaders with a comprehensive analysis of the region’s evolving commercial real estate landscape. Messer’s presentation highlighted key market trends, economic drivers, and investment opportunities shaping Southwest Florida’s future. From migration patterns and capital market shifts to industrial growth and retail demand, his data-driven analysis equipped attendees with the knowledge to navigate the dynamic real estate environment. The full presentation and key takeaways are now available by clicking the link below. 2025 ULI SWFL Presentation 2025 SWFL ULI Presentation by Eric Messer, C&W by Susan Frantz

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The Data Center Boom: Florida’s Role in a Growning Commercial Real Estate Sector

The Data Center Boom By Gary Tasman The digital revolution is reshaping commercial real estate, with data centers emerging as one of the most in-demand asset classes. The surge in cloud computing, AI, and IoT has fueled an unprecedented need for data center space, both globally and in key U.S. markets. Florida, with its emerging data center market, strong connectivity, and business-friendly environment is becoming an attractive location for companies looking to establish a robust digital infrastructure near the Florida business and consumer marketplace. Florida’s Competitive Advantage in Data Centers Florida has data center hubs in Miami, Tampa, Orlando, and Jacksonville. Its excellent fiber optic infrastructure and position as a hub for submarine fiber landings make it a key gateway for global data connectivity. Additionally, Florida offers competitive electricity rates, with some exemptions on electricity sales tax, making it a cost-effective environment for data center operations. Florida has abundant power in many locations. Development & Conversion: A Real Estate Opportunity As demand grows, both new developments and adaptive reuse of commercial properties are becoming viable solutions. Industrial warehousing and manufacturing buildings can be converted into data centers, leveraging Florida’s favorable infrastructure and cost benefits. Investors and property owners should consider power availability, diverse fiber availability, flood risk, and hurricane risk when exploring these opportunities. Sustainability & Security: Key Operational Considerations Sustainability is a major focus in data center design, with renewable energy integration, water-efficient cooling systems, and regulatory compliance shaping the future of operations. Security—both physical and cyber—is also a top priority, making data centers among the most fortified commercial properties. Investment Outlook: Florida’s Growing Market For investors, Florida’s data center market presents a strong opportunity for long-term value. Florida is an emerging market and is considered underdeveloped for the coming data center demand. There are development and investment opportunities to reposition land for data center development and convert existing buildings. There are also investment acquisition opportunities to consider. Colocation models, capital stacking strategies, and evolving valuation metrics provide diverse entry points into this high-growth sector. With demand continuing to rise, commercial real estate professionals must stay ahead of market shifts to capitalize on Florida’s position as a data center hub. Florida’s data center market is very exciting and is poised for unprecedented growth. With over 100 data centers already established and significant investments projected to exceed $2 billion in the coming years, Florida offers a highly attractive environment for data center investment and development. The state’s business friendly policies, abundant renewable energy resources, and strategic connectivity to undersea fiber optic cables make it a prime location for both national and international data center investment.” Randolph W. Borron, Vice Chairman, Global Data Center Advisory Group, for Cushman & Wakefield CONTACT GARY TASMAN, CEO & Principal Broker At Cushman & Wakefield | Commercial Property Southwest Florida, we understand the evolving landscape of data center real estate. Whether you’re looking to invest, develop, or reposition existing assets, our expertise can help you navigate this rapidly growing sector. For more insights on Florida’s data center real estate opportunities, contact Gary Tasman today at 239-489-3600 or by email gtasman@cpswfl.com.

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Trump 2.0 & Implications for Property

Are you Wondering about the Trump Administration’s Potential Impact on Real Estate Markets? The recent election of Donald Trump as the 47th President of the United States signals potential shifts in economic and property landscapes. With Republicans controlling both Congress and the White House, policy changes could span regulatory, fiscal, trade, and immigration areas, influencing commercial real estate (CRE) markets. Key positives include reduced market volatility, fiscal stimulus boosting corporate profits, financial deregulation, and policies favoring housing supply and CRE investment. Additionally, anticipated federal mandates for office returns may revive office space utilization in key markets. Conversely, negatives such as potential inflationary shocks from tariffs, restrictive immigration policies, and interest rate volatility pose challenges to sustained growth. While immediate impacts on CRE are limited, long-term effects will depend on the scope and execution of policy changes. Industry experts recommend focusing on macroeconomic trends and maintaining strategic, long-term investment perspectives. For more insights on CRE trends under the new administration For expert insights and further inquiries, contact Cushman & Wakefield | Commercial Property Southwest Florida by calling 239.489.3600 or email us at info@cpswfl.com for more information! Read The Full Article Here

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Six Critical Questions Part 6: What Are Some of Southwest Florida’s Largest Commercial & Public Sector Construction Projects?

This article is the final edition of a six-part series focusing on the most critical questions about development and commercial property in Southwest Florida.  The end of 2023 saw two landmark construction projects come to an end: Margaritaville Resort in Fort Myers Beach, and Sunseeker Resort in Port Charlotte, both of which were long-awaited developments that changed the profile of their communities. These hospitality projects will soon be joined by four additional large-scale hotels in Collier County, which combined will total more than $1.4 billion in development.  However, the majority of our region’s new construction projects are focused on the needs of our rapidly growing population rather than our traditional economic base of tourism.   This brings us to the final question in our six-part series:  What Are Some of Southwest Florida’s Largest Commercial and Public Sector Construction Projects?  Over the next five years, Southwest Florida will see substantial development across various sectors, including commercial and public infrastructure projects tailored to support our expanding community. Educational infrastructure will receive a boost with multiple new schools coming in Lee, Collier, and Charlotte Counties. Combined, the new educational ventures in our region will reach more than $3.3 billion in the next half-decade, but represent only a portion of our region’s largest construction projects.  Medical & Medical Office   Lee Health plans to invest more than $750 million into fresh community health initiatives. This year, the hospital system completed the expansion of its Surfside outpatient center in Cape Coral. Lee Health has also broken ground on a new 60-bed rehabilitation hospital in collaboration with Encompass Health, slated for completion in 2025. However, the system’s most notable upcoming project is the construction of a new hospital and medical campus on Colonial Boulevard in Fort Myers.   Southwest Florida International Airport  Already one of the nation’s fastest-growing airports, Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) envisions further expansion. This includes a $331 million terminal expansion, Lee County’s second-largest public works project ever. However, the terminal expansion is just a fraction of RSW’s $1.4 billion overall growth plan, which includes its ambitious Skyplex development.  Infrastructure and Hurricane Recovery Projects   The topic of traffic congestion is always top-of-mind for Southwest Florida residents, prompting several infrastructure projects meant to alleviate some of the many commuter challenges exacerbated by a growing population. These include the long-awaited replacement of the Cape Coral Bridge, expected to begin in 2026 or 2027, and numerous road expansion projects across the region. Beyond just transportation improvements, total infrastructure investments and expansions in Lee, Charlotte, and Collier Counties will total north of $1 billion.   Finally, it’s crucial to address the economic impact generated by our region’s ongoing recovery from Hurricane Ian. Over the next five years, projects designed to rebuild and reinforce our community will ignite construction activity valued between $60-$110 billion.  The Commercial Construction Cycle  Construction spending has a ripple effect on the economy. These improvements to our community will do more than just make Southwest Florida an even more desirable place to live. As our expansion continues, it will also foster job creation and population growth. The data suggest that Southwest Florida will lead the state in economic expansion for the foreseeable future.    How will these projects impact you and your investments? The team at Cushman & Wakefield | Commercial Property Southwest Florida (CPSWFL) has an intimate understanding of our region’s economic potential and commercial property landscape. Reach out to the Commercial Property Experts at CPSWFL with your questions. To contact us, use our online contact form or call 239-489-3600 and consult with an expert today.     

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