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CPSWFL Names James Kishel as Chief Operating Officer

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Cushman & Wakefield | Commercial Property Southwest Florida (CPSWFL) has announced the appointment of Jamie Kishel as Chief Operating Officer, marking a significant addition to the firm’s executive leadership team. In his role as COO, Kishel will oversee the firm’s day-to-day operations across brokerage, property management, development, and facility services, driving strategic alignment and operational efficiency. His leadership will support CPSWFL’s continued growth and commitment to providing clients with industry-leading real estate solutions across the region. Kishel brings more than two decades of experience with Cushman & Wakefield, where he held several senior positions and played a key role in expanding the company’s industrial platform nationally. His expertise in organizational development, process improvement, and client service strategy has been instrumental in shaping performance-driven teams across multiple markets. “Bringing Jamie onto our leadership team reflects both the strength of our organization and our confidence in the region’s continued economic growth,” said Gary Tasman, CEO and Principal Broker at CPSWFL. “His experience, insight, and leadership will further enhance our ability to deliver exceptional results for our clients and partners.” Kishel’s relocation to Southwest Florida underscores his belief in the market’s long-term potential. As COO, he will focus on advancing operational initiatives, mentoring emerging talent, and supporting CPSWFL’s mission to provide best-in-class commercial real estate services throughout the Gulf Coast region. Kishel was recently featured in Gulfshore Business for his transition to Southwest Florida and his expanded leadership role. Read the full article here.

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Prime Downtown Fort Myers Office Building Sells Above Market Value

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Prime Downtown Fort Myers Office Building Sells Above Market Value Cushman & Wakefield | Commercial Property Southwest Florida facilitates $500,000 sale at 2431 First Street   The office building at 2431 First Street in Downtown Fort Myers has sold for $500,000, above market value, in a transaction facilitated by Cushman & Wakefield | Commercial Property Southwest Florida, LLC and Senior Director Michael F. Curran. The 1,368-square-foot property, originally listed for lease, quickly drew interest thanks to its prime location along First Street, offering excellent visibility, high vehicle traffic, and strong pedestrian activity. That demand resulted in a purchase by 2431 First Street LLC, underscoring the appeal of downtown Fort Myers as a business hub. Designed for general office use, the building sits in the center of Fort Myers’ vibrant downtown corridor, making it an attractive investment and a reflection of the continued momentum in the city’s commercial real estate market. “We are thrilled to have facilitated this transaction, which reflects the robust demand for well-positioned properties in Fort Myers,” said Michael F. Curran, Senior Director at Cushman & Wakefield | Commercial Property Southwest Florida. “This sale exemplifies our ability to maximize value for our clients through tailored strategies and deep market knowledge.” The successful sale highlights Cushman & Wakefield | Commercial Property Southwest Florida’s expertise in delivering results that benefit clients and support the growth of the regional economy. For more information about this transaction, or to learn more about Commercial Property Southwest Florida, please contact Gary Tasman at gtasman@cpswfl.com or visit www.cpswfl.com. 

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North Fort Myers Parcel Sale Featured in Cape Coral Breeze

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The $550,000 sale of a 7.24-acre parcel at 17501 N. Tamiami Trail in North Fort Myers, represented by Gary Tasman, CEO and Principal Broker, and Shawn Stoneburner, Senior Director of Cushman & Wakefield | Commercial Property Southwest Florida, was also covered in Cape Coral Breeze. The buyer, R.B.E. Investments of Southwest Florida Inc., is considering potential light industrial development for the site. Read the full article in Cape Coral Breeze here. 

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North Fort Myers Parcel Sale Featured in Business Observer

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The recent sale of a 7.24-acre parcel on Tamiami Trail in North Fort Myers, brokered by Gary Tasman, CEO, and Shawn Stoneburner, Senior Director of Cushman & Wakefield | Commercial Property Southwest Florida, was highlighted in Business Observer. The property, purchased by R.B.E. Investments of Southwest Florida for $550,000, is being considered for light industrial redevelopment. Read the full article in Business Observer here. 

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FDLE Breaks Ground on New Fort Myers Regional HQ

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The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) has officially broken ground on its new $36 million Regional Operations Center in Fort Myers, reinforcing the agency’s long-term commitment to public safety in Southwest Florida. Located on Oriole Road near the I-75 and Alico Road interchange, the new two-story, 64,000-square-foot facility will consolidate multiple FDLE operations, including forensic labs, digital evidence analysis, offices, and training areas, into one purpose-built location. Developed by Seagate Development Group in partnership with Easterly Government Properties, the project is expected to be completed by October 2026. FDLE has signed a 25-year lease with renewal options. Cushman & Wakefield | Commercial Property Southwest Florida represented Seagate in both the land acquisition and lease negotiations, helping to align the vision of public-sector leadership with institutional development strategy. “This wasn’t just about site selection. It was about solving a complex need with a long-term strategy,” said Gary Tasman, CEO and Principal Broker. “Our team brought together the right partners, the right location, and the right vision to ensure FDLE’s future in Southwest Florida. This project reflects the type of forward-thinking leadership and collaboration that define our firm.” “There was a lot of intention behind this deal,” added Shawn Stoneburner, Senior Director at Cushman & Wakefield. “From infrastructure and access to security and growth potential, we made sure every aspect of the site and lease supported FDLE’s mission. It’s a great example of the value Cushman & Wakefield brings when strategy and execution come together.” The new facility replaces FDLE’s current storm-damaged location at Page Field and will initially serve around 70 employees with future expansion capacity for up to 100. Read the full story on Gulfshore Business here.

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Florida to Eliminate Sales Tax on Commercial Rent Beginning October 2025

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Florida to Eliminate Sales Tax on Commercial Rent Beginning October 2025   In a significant policy shift poised to benefit businesses across the state, Florida will officially eliminate the 2% state sales tax on commercial leases effective October 1, 2025. The announcement was detailed in a recent article by Evan Williams for Gulfshore Business, highlighting a long-anticipated move that positions Florida as even more competitive in attracting and retaining commercial tenants. The repeal was signed into law by Governor Ron DeSantis on June 30, 2025, following the passage of House Bill 7031. This marks the final phase-out of a tax that has been in place since 1969, originally set at 6% and gradually reduced over the past decade. “This will make us much more competitive when recruiting or launching new businesses in Florida,” said Gary Tasman, CEO and Principal Broker of Cushman & Wakefield | Commercial Property Southwest Florida, in the Gulfshore Business feature. “It removes a financial barrier that no other state imposed so broadly, giving Florida a clear advantage.” Key Implications: Tenant Cost Relief: The removal of the 2% tax will reduce total occupancy costs for tenants across office, retail, and industrial asset classes. Landlord Adjustments: Property owners should prepare to update lease agreements and billing systems ahead of the October 1 effective date. Market Competitiveness: With the repeal, Florida aligns more closely with national norms, reinforcing its pro-business stance and enhancing its appeal to both regional and national occupiers. This legislative change is expected to stimulate economic activity across the state by lowering barriers to entry and promoting reinvestment in commercial space. To read the full article by Evan Williams in Gulfshore Business, click here.

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Navigating the 2025 Hurricane Season: A Guide for Commercial Property Owners

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By Gayle Erickson-Ash & Bill Mitchell, Property Management at Cushman & Wakefield | Commercial Property Southwest Florida With the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season expected to be more active than usual, preparation is key for commercial property owners across Southwest Florida. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) forecasts 17 named storms, 9 hurricanes, and 4 major hurricanes, fueled by unusually warm ocean waters and a developing La Niña pattern. Advancements in forecasting technology, such as NOAA’s Hurricane Analysis and Forecast System (HAFS), are offering communities better lead times. But even with better warnings, the time to prepare is now. At Cushman & Wakefield | Commercial Property Southwest Florida, hurricane preparedness is a cornerstone of our proactive property management strategy. We work closely with property owners and tenants to mitigate risk, protect assets, and ensure business continuity. Before a Hurricane: What We Do and Recommend Building Compliance: We inspect buildings to ensure they meet current hurricane codes and complete any necessary structural improvements. Insurance Reviews: We confirm flood and general insurance policies are comprehensive and up to date. Lease Review: Review lease terms with tenants regarding storm-related responsibilities. Hazard Assessment: Use FEMA tools to identify potential vulnerabilities unique to your location. Secure Documentation: Take and store photographic or video records of property conditions. Protect Lower Levels: Remove or elevate valuables and equipment from ground-floor areas prone to flooding. Outdoor Item Storage: Secure or remove outdoor furniture and debris to reduce storm hazards. Tenant Communication: Maintain clear, proactive communication with tenants before, during, and after the storm. Emergency Readiness: Update contact lists and follow all local evacuation orders. Generator Checks: Test functionality, confirm fuel levels, and arrange for post-storm refueling. Water Intrusion Prevention: Use barriers or sandbags at entry points and windows. Digital Backup: Store essential files in secure cloud platforms and protect physical documents indoors. After a Hurricane: Rapid, Responsible Recovery Safety First: Only re-enter buildings cleared by structural engineers. Plan for Delays: Communicate openly with tenants about potential repair delays due to labor or supply shortages. Tenant Support: Reach out quickly to assess damages and assist tenants in recovery efforts. Insurance Follow-Up: Begin the claims process using your pre-storm documentation. Our team is available to help assess your coverage and assist with filing. Insurance Coverage—Your First Line of Defense Storm damage can bring costly setbacks. Make sure your flood and property insurance are comprehensive and current. With policies frequently changing, our team is here to review your coverage and assist with storm planning tailored to your property. Helpful Resources for Hurricane Preparedness and Recovery Explore these trusted resources to strengthen your hurricane plan: Horizon Foundation – Business Continuity Resources Florida Disaster – Planning for Businesses FEMA – Disaster Preparedness and Recovery Lee County Recovery Resources Charlotte County Storm & Recovery Info Collier County Hurricane Preparedness Florida SBDC – Disaster Planning for Small Businesses Additionally, download hurricane tracking apps to stay updated: iOS: National Hurricane Center Data Android: My Hurricane Tracker & Alerts We’re Here to Help As both a brokerage and full-service property management firm, Cushman & Wakefield | Commercial Property Southwest Florida is committed to supporting you before, during, and after a storm.  📞 Call us at 239-489-3600 🌐 Visit us at cpswfl.com Stay prepared, stay protected—and let our team be your trusted partner this hurricane season.  

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Trump 2.0: How Policy Changes Could Impact Commercial Real Estate

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

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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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Cushman & Wakefield’s Market Expertise Took Center Stage at ULI’s 2025 Southwest Florida Focus Real Estate Forum

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Cushman & Wakefield’s Market Expertise Took Center Stage at ULI’s 2025 Southwest Florida Focus Real Estate Forum Research Analyst Eric Messer Presented on Key Market Trends, Migration Patterns, and Commercial Real Estate Outlook for Southwest Florida Fort Myers, Fla. (February 2025) – Cushman & Wakefield, a global commercial real estate services leader, took center stage at the 2025 Southwest Florida Focus Real Estate Forum, where industry leaders gained exclusive insights into the region’s evolving market. As Southwest Florida experienced dynamic economic and demographic shifts, Senior Research Manager Eric Messer presented data-backed forecasts that shaped investment strategies and commercial growth across the region. Messer’s session delivered an in-depth analysis of key market trends, economic drivers, and commercial real estate performance across all asset classes, providing attendees with a forward-looking perspective on market demand, development trends, and investment opportunities in 2025 and beyond. His insights highlighted how migration trends, evolving economic forces, and capital market shifts shaped the future of industrial, office, multifamily, and retail sectors in Southwest Florida. As the leader of Cushman & Wakefield’s Florida research team, Messer and his team provided comprehensive market intelligence, collecting, analyzing, and interpreting quarterly and annual data across office, industrial, multifamily, and retail properties. His presentation outlined how vacancy rates were expected to stabilize, capital markets were reawakening, and population growth continued to drive regional commercial development. “Southwest Florida’s real estate market was at a pivotal moment, influenced by demographic shifts, national economic forces, and evolving investor sentiment,” said Messer. “At Cushman & Wakefield, we leveraged extensive market research and real-time data to help clients anticipate trends and make informed decisions. The ULI Forum provided an excellent platform to share these insights and engage with industry leaders navigating the region’s opportunities and challenges.” According to Cushman & Wakefield’s latest research, Southwest Florida’s commercial real estate sector saw continued growth in industrial development, driven by e-commerce expansion and demand for last-mile distribution centers. The multifamily sector remained strong, with rental demand increasing alongside continued migration into the region. While office vacancy rates remained elevated in some submarkets, the flight-to-quality trend led to reinvestment in Class A properties. Retail demand also rose, particularly for mixed-use developments that incorporated live-work-play concepts. “Southwest Florida entered a new phase of economic and commercial real estate growth,” said Gary Tasman, CEO & Principal Broker of Cushman & Wakefield | Commercial Property Southwest Florida. “Businesses and investors recognized the long-term value of this market, and our data showed that key sectors—particularly industrial and multifamily—continued to thrive in 2025 and beyond. The insights Eric Messer shared at ULI’s annual forum were invaluable for those looking to make informed, strategic decisions in this evolving landscape.” The 2025 ULI Southwest Florida Focus Real Estate Forum brought together top real estate professionals, developers, and industry experts to discuss growth trends, housing solutions, and commercial real estate strategies. This year’s forum featured key insights into Lee and Collier County’s economic development, the Housing Coalition’s strategies for expanding housing access, and emerging trends in real estate for 2025. To view Eric Messer’s Presentation on Southwest Florida and Commercial Real Estates 2025 Economic Outlook click here. As a leader in commercial real estate research and advisory services, Cushman & Wakefield | Commercial Property Southwest Florida provides clients with actionable insights and strategic guidance across all property sectors. The firm’s deep understanding of market dynamics ensured clients were equipped to capitalize on emerging opportunities and navigate evolving trends in Southwest Florida and beyond. This year’s forum was made possible through the generous support of sponsors, including Cushman & Wakefield Commercial Property Southwest Florida, Christopher Alan Homes, M/I Homes, and Owen-Ames-Kimball Company.

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