gary tasman

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

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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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 5:Has Southwest Florida’s Wave of Multifamily Construction Reached its Peak?

Southwest Florida’s housing market is evolving, and multifamily construction trends are at a pivotal point. In Part 5 of our Emerging Trends in Commercial Real Estate series, Cushman & Wakefield’s | Commercial Property Southwest Florida CEO, Gary Tasman explores; 📉 The 62% drop in multifamily construction starts and the reasons behind it. 🏠 Ongoing housing shortages and the region’s affordability challenges. 📊 Future predictions: Why this slowdown is only temporary, with a rebound expected by 2026. Understand what these changes mean for developers and investors looking to navigate the current market and prepare for the next wave of opportunities. 📍 Watch now for expert insights and actionable takeaways. ➡️ Read the full article: https://bit.ly/MultiFamilyDevelopmentSWFL For expert insights and further inquiries, contact Cushman & Wakefield | Commercial Property Southwest Florida. 📞 Call us at 239.489.3600 or email us at info@cpswfl.com for more information!

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Six Critical Questions Part 4: What Are the Hottest Corridors in Southwest Florida?

In the fourth installment of our series, we dive into the hottest commercial corridors in Southwest Florida! Discover key insights that every investor and developer needs to know. Key Topics Covered: Punta Gorda Airport: Exciting expansion plans and projected growth of 4 million square feet of commercial space by 2026. Burnt Store Corridor: Explore 14 new developments, including the Hudson Creek project, which aims to create 13,000 housing units and 1,100 jobs. Pine Island Road: A significant shift from retail to multifamily developments with over 5,000 apartments on the horizon. Fort Myers River District: Upcoming luxury apartments, entertainment venues, and pedestrian parks to enhance urban living. Skyplex: Lee County’s largest economic initiative with plans for 8.15 million square feet of development and 21,000 jobs. Alico Road: A booming mixed-use logistics hub that will support 60,000 jobs in five years. East Collier County: The transformation of communities and future commercial projects that promise growth. 👉 Don’t miss out! If you’re an investor looking for the next big opportunity, this video is for you! For expert insights and further inquiries, contact Cushman & Wakefield | Commercial Property Southwest Florida. 📞 Call us at 239.489.3600 or email us at info@cpswfl.com for more information!

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Resources and Support for Our Community After Hurricanes Milton & Helene

We hope you and your loved ones are safe as our community begins the road to recovery following Hurricane Milton. Once again, our strength and resilience are being tested, and our thoughts are with all those affected. At Cushman & Wakefield | Commercial Property Southwest Florida, we are here to support you during this challenging time. We understand the immediate concerns regarding property damage, operational disruptions, and the safety of your teams. To assist you, we’ve compiled a list of essential resources to help guide you through the recovery process: Key Resources for Hurricane Recovery: FEMA Disaster Assistance: Apply for federal disaster aid for property damage, losses, and repairs. SBA Disaster Loans: Low-interest disaster loans available for businesses, property owners, and renters. FloridaDisaster.org: Stay informed with the latest recovery efforts, services, and updates. Emergency Partnerships: Cushman & Wakefield | CPSWFL is a preferred partner for Fireservice. Fireservice has a 24/7 emergency response team, and they are prepared to assist us will all mitigation needs no matter the size. This means we are top of the list when we call. If you need assistance, we are ready to support you. Please call your property manager if you are in need of these services. This partnership along with many more allows us to help you as quickly and as efficiently as possible to get you back to business as usual. In the wake of Hurricane Milton, our top priority at Cushman & Wakefield | Commercial Property Southwest Florida is to serve you—our valued clients, partners, and the community. We are actively working to assess properties, address repairs, and ensure the safety of all our tenants. Our dedicated team is here to provide support during this challenging time, and we are committed to assisting you every step of the way as we recover and rebuild together. For any immediate concerns or assistance, please contact us at 239.489.3600 or email us at info@CPSWFL.com. Thank you for your trust and patience as we navigate this recovery process. We are here for you.

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Six Critical Questions Part 2: What Impact Will Interest Rates Have on Commercial Real Estate?

🔍 What Impact Will Interest Rates Have on Commercial Real Estate?   Join Gary Tasman, CEO & Principal Broker of Cushman and Wakefield Commercial Property Southwest Florida, as he shares his strategic thought leadership on the factors influencing the commercial real estate market in Southwest Florida in part 2 of our video series on Emerging Trends in SWFL.   Over the past year, we’ve seen a significant deceleration in transaction volume due to rising construction costs, land scarcity, increased insurance premiums, and, notably, higher interest rates. To learn more about emerging trends in commercial real estate in SWFL follow this link; https://bit.ly/InterestRatesCPSWFL

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Six Critical Questions Part 3: Will We See an Avalanche of Distressed Assets in 2024? 

This article is part three of a six-part series focusing on the six most critical questions about development and commercial property in Southwest Florida.  Across the country, borrowers and lenders are bracing for a potential surge of distressed assets. According to a study by Cushman & Wakefield, the U.S. commercial property market exhibited an alarming $80 billion in outstanding distress as of Q3 2023. Even more concerning, the report showed more than $215 billion in potential distress on the horizon, surpassing the cumulative distress observed during the Great Recession.  However, Southwest Florida has been able to buck a number of national trends in commercial real estate over the last few years. This brings us to the third question in our series:  Will Southwest Florida See an Avalanche of Distressed Assets in 2024?  To understand the reasons why borrowers and lenders are concerned about distressed assets, it’s important to first understand how commercial loan interest rates contribute to distress levels.  Interest Rates and Distressed Assets  Commercial real estate loans are typically structured with short maturities, often in the neighborhood of eight to ten years, with a much longer amortization period. Consequently, property owners face a large balloon payment at the end of each loan.  If owners are unable to settle these balloon payments in full, they will refinance that balloon payment at current interest rates.   When the majority of existing commercial loans were established, historically low interest rates were in effect. Eight years ago, the average 10-year treasury yield was an astonishing 1.84 percent. Now, with rates more than double that, the cost of refinancing a commercial property balloon payment may not be worth the added cost of borrowing money. This is particularly true in markets where inventory is high and property values are declining.  Distressed Property in Southwest Florida  Here in Southwest Florida, we are experiencing some of the lowest levels of distressed commercial real estate in the state. Our area boasts a loan loss rate of only 11%, which falls below the state average of 12%. Southwest Florida’s resilience comes in part from our strong rental rates, which are helping to keep many properties profitable and net operating income (NOI) positive.  Will distress levels rise in Southwest Florida?  Most likely, although not to the potentially catastrophic levels we may see in other parts of the country. Maturing loans will exert pressure across all product types, especially middle and low-quality office assets. However, rent growth has lifted NOI considerably over the life of the average loan, meaning we shouldn’t anticipate an avalanche of distress. Southwest Florida borrowers who secured financing prior to 2019 have likely accumulated enough appreciation to make their property’s current values higher than their debt balance. Coupled with low vacancy rates, strong job growth, and favorable net migration, our region will likely outperform most of the rest of the country.      Are you a commercial property owner with a loan on the cusp of maturity? If so, the Commercial Property Experts  at Cushman & Wakefield | Commercial Property Southwest Florida (CPSWFL) can help you determine your best next move in our current economic climate. CPSWFL has the data, analytics, and local experience to help you understand the dynamics of our region’s economic potential and commercial property landscape. Complete our online contact form or call us at 239-489-3600 to speak with an expert.     

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Six Critical Questions Part 2: What Impact Will Interest Rates Have on Commercial Real Estate?

This article is part two of a six-part series focusing on the most critical questions about development and commercial property in Southwest Florida.   The volume of commercial real estate transactions in Southwest Florida decelerated over the last year, likely attributable to number of factors. These variables include escalating construction costs, scarcity of land for development, increasing insurance premiums, and growing interest rates.   Yet, despite this slowdown in commercial sales velocity, prices are still on the rise.  This brings us to the second critical question in our six-part series:  What Impact will Interest Rates Have on Southwest Florida Commercial Real Estate?  Undoubtedly, interest rates have a visible influence on the commercial real estate investment market. Elevated interest rates mean a hike in the cost of borrowing money and can ultimately dampen demand from developers and investors.  Interest Rates and Treasury Yields  Commercial mortgage rates are typically based on the 10-year treasury. Treasury yields peaked at 4.92 percent in October 2023 and currently hover at about 4.3 percent, roughly 80 basis points higher than we saw last April. Such rates can pose hurdles for properties that can’t generate enough cash flow to support high-leverage mortgages. Fortunately, rent growth should soften the impact of pricier borrowing costs on balance sheets.  The Federal Reserve Bank escalated interest rates 11 times in 2022 and 2023 to counteract skyrocketing inflation. Since inflation began to stabilize in mid-2023, the Fed has left rates unchanged in six of its last seven sessions. Currently, the U.S. inflation rate stands at 3.2 percent, and although the Fed disappointed many by announcing that it’s unlikely to reduce interest rates in the immediate future, experts still anticipate at least one rate cut before the end of the year.   More Interest Rate Stability Coming  We anticipate much more stability in interest rates from this point forward. As a result, property values in our region are poised for marginal growth, thanks to low inventory and high rent potential. However, we shouldn’t expect to see sales volume rebound to previous levels for another year to 18 months.    Are you prepared to take advantage once interest rates begin to fall? Whether you’re a property owner looking to position your asset for sale or a potential buyer seeking opportunities in our marketplace, the Commercial Property Experts at Cushman & Wakefield | Commercial Property Southwest Florida (CPSWFL) have the data, analytics, and local experience to assist you with your needs. Complete our online contact form or call CPSWFL at 239-489-3600 today to speak with one of our experts.   

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