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Two-for-Tuesday | WSACC PPT Presentation & Report | WOTUS Finally Clarified by Trump Memo

Originally published on March 18, 2025, by REBIC.
  1. WSACC Presents Update to HBAGC’s Land Development Council
    On Thursday, March 13, 2025, Chad Von Cannon, Executive Director of the Water and Sewer Authority of Cabarrus County (WSACC), was the guest presenter for the LDC. With a full house in tow, Chad shared a detailed PPT presentation entitled Expansion, Master Plan, and Facilities Plan. This included a close-up view of the Phase 3 and 4 Plans for the Rocky River Regional Expansion, an Inflow and Infiltration Study, plus a quick review of future challenges. Be sure to view and download the entire PowerPoint presentation.

    The Water and Sewer Authority of Cabarrus County (WSACC) is an independent, incorporated public body funded by user fees. It has no taxing authority and supports five jurisdictions in North Carolina: Cabarrus County, the Cities of Concord and Kannapolis, and the Towns of Harrisburg and Mount Pleasant.

    WSACC is the primary planning agent for water and sewer facilities, provides wholesale wastewater transportation and treatment for its organizing jurisdictions, and manages reservoirs for some or all of its jurisdictions.

    Chad Von Cannon is the Executive Director of the Water and Sewer Authority of Cabarrus County (WSACC). Chad is responsible for planning, directing, and managing the operations and personnel of the Authority and is involved in setting policies and goals under the direction of the Board of Directors.

  2. Trump Administration Issues Memo to Clarify WOTUS Rule
    Last week, the Trump Administration issued this memo to guide Waters of the United States (WOTUS) in clarifying “continuous surface connection.” We share it here for several reasons. First, we must underscore and share information that clarifies confusion caused by other reports about the administration’s actions. Secondly, we recently reported on WOTUS and felt this update was essential.

    An official public notice through the Federal Register will be forthcoming.

Vital Membership Benefits

NAIOP is successful because of the support and engagement of our 21,000+ members across an extensive North American chapter network. 

Together, NAIOP and our members are expanding our network, producing valuable research, advocating for the industry, enhancing our members' careers – and shaping the future of commercial real estate. 

Don't miss out on these NAIOP member benefits:

  • Log in to naiop.org to update your profile in the member directory to make connecting and exploring potential partnerships with other NAIOP members easier.
  • Download the latest research from the NAIOP Research Foundation to help you stay ahead of emerging trends and make informed business decisions.
  • Get informed on NAIOP's advocacy efforts and priority legislative issues as we voice members' interests at all levels of government.
  • Explore NAIOP's courses and webinars to grow your expertise and add skills in essential areas of commercial real estate.

NAIOP is working for you. Learn more about our plans to serve our members and strengthen the industry this year.

Two-for-Tuesday | Stay Relevant with these 6 Vital Updates and Links

Originally published on March 4, 2025, by REBIC.
  1. CATS Micro, an on-demand, shared-ride service, is expanding its territory to northern municipalities. The new service using CATS Micro-branded vehicles will be provided.
    “On-demand trips” mean you can access service when needed within the service hours listed below. The wait time for the service is intended to be no more than 30 minutes from the time of reservation to the time of pickup from your requested location within the service zone; however, traffic delays may impact these times. We urge you to check your CATS-Pass app throughout your experience for the most up-to-date information.

    All CATS Micro trips must be scheduled through the CATS-Pass app or arranged by calling the CATS Customer Service on the day of service. Customers cannot hail a CATS Micro vehicle from the curb.

    The CATS Micro zone serves areas north of I-485, including Huntersville, Davidson, and Cornelius. See the map of service and read the article.

  2. HUD Secretary Vows to Work with Builders to Cut Regulations, Boost Housing Supply From NAHB. Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Scott Turner today said he would work to reduce regulatory burdens to ease America’s housing affordability crisis and help builders construct more attainable, affordable housing.

    In one of his first official speaking engagements after being sworn in as HUD secretary earlier this month, Turner addressed the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB)Leadership Council, which met in Las Vegas with the 2025 International Builders’ Show (IBS).

    “A home is more than four walls. It’s the foundation of a thriving community,” said Turner. “To decrease the cost and increase the supply of affordable housing, we will terminate these unnecessary, ineffective, and costly regulations.”

    Turner pledged to work with home builders and all interested stakeholders to find long-term solutions that make homes more affordable, spur business creation, and create economic opportunity for all Americans.

    “It’s time we unleash the power of the private sector and the free market to build our way out of the housing affordability crisis,” said Turner. “We are returning to the drawing board to restore efficiency at HUD.”

    The HUD secretary further emphasized that as part of this process, “the foundation of a stable fiscal house is regulatory reform. At HUD, we are taking inventory and terminating all cumbersome regulations that make it harder for individuals and families to realize the American Dream of homeownership.”

    After addressing the NAHB Leadership Council, Turner participated in the IBS by touring the exhibit floor's latest building products and innovations.

  3. Mecklenburg County Seeking Input Through Annual Online Budget Survey. Closing Soon, so Act Now!

    [TAKE SURVEY NOW]

    Each year, Mecklenburg County develops an annual operating budget that reflects the priorities of the County Commission and the community. We are currently developing the Fiscal Year 2026 Budget, which starts July 1, 2025, and ends June 30, 2026, and they need our help!

    Your input on the following survey will help us understand whether your needs for selected county services are being met and which services should be prioritized for the next year.

    This survey will take most people less than 10 minutes to complete, and your responses will remain anonymous.

    The County provides a variety of services to residents. County department services include:
    • Air Quality
    • Child Support Enforcement
    • Code Enforcement
    • Court Services Coordination
    • Domestic Violence Services
    • Economic Development
    • Flood Mitigation
    • Historic Landmarks
    • Homeless Support Services
    • Jails & Detention
    • Land, Property & Vital Records
    • Medical Examiner
    • Park & Recreation
    • Property Valuation
    • Public Health
    • Public Libraries
    • Recycling Centers
    • Social Services
    • Solid Waste Disposal
    • Stream & Lake Quality
    • Tax Collection
    • Veterans Services
    • Voting Services

  4. City of Charlotte Seeking Input Through Annual Online Budget Survey.

    [Take the Survey]

    The City of Charlotte is seeking input from residents regarding their budget priorities for the upcoming fiscal year.

    As part of this effort, the city will host three budget engagement events, listed below, throughout March, providing residents with multiple opportunities to learn about the budget process and share their feedback.
    Residents can also share feedback through the FY 2026 Budget Survey, which will remain open until April 7, and engage with the Balancing Act simulator. The Balancing Act is a tool that allows residents to test their budgeting skills and balance the city’s more than $4 billion budget.

    “The city’s budget is more than numbers – it’s a plan that connects people to opportunities, strengthens neighborhoods, and enhances the quality of life,” said Marie Harris, interim director of the City of Charlotte Strategy & Budget Department. “Every decision impacts daily life, from the roads we travel to the housing and job opportunities residents can access. That’s why we want to hear from as many people as possible to ensure their voices help shape the future of our community.”

    Following the resident engagement, the city manager will present the Proposed FY 2026 Budget on May 5.

    Council workshops and presentations can be streamed on the GOV Channel, YouTube, and the GOV Channel Streaming App.

  5. Meck County's Phase-out of Code Enforcement's older customer portals begins as Accela becomes the preferred portal for all projects. Earlier this year, Accela became the preferred customer portal for all project types. We are delighted to offer this enhanced service to our customers.

    As Accela moves forward, the agency prepares to move away from the legacy portals where our customers have worked for decades. This process will take place gradually to allow our customers to adjust their workflows and account for projects already in process.

    The sunset of the previous portals began in February with POSSE Outrider, also known as Web Permit or the contractor dashboard. New applications are no longer being accepted in Outrider for the following project types:

    • small commercial projects
    • new trade permits
    • equipment changeouts
    • Trade internet permits (TIPS/ETIPS)

    Customers should now submit new applications for these project types using Accela.

    Customers who have already submitted applications for these project types in POSSE may continue using the older portal for that project.

    Customers who have not done so are encouraged to set up an Accela account. More project types will be removed from the old portals in the weeks and months ahead.

  6. Rents Plunge in Austin for All The Right Reasons. Shot in arm for economic balance by using the market to correct escalating rent prices.

    I am sharing information from this forwarded email that illustrates a great example of the market working as it should. Increase the supply, and the cost will come down. We quote this piece from the correspondence:

    Austin is the same size and has very similar demographics to Charlotte, so this is doubly relevant. The "proof is in the pudding" makes this a powerful tool to lobby the City and County with—"Look, if you fix your Development Ordinances and just get over yourselves, development WILL happen, more units WILL come, and Rents Will Become More Affordable!!!"

Chapter Leaders Visit Washington, DC for CL&LR

Early in February, NAIOP Charlotte leaders attended the Chapter Leadership and Legislative Retreat (CL&LR) in Washington, D.C. One of the event's highlights is the meetings with our senators and representatives to educate elected officials on the issues important to the commercial real estate industry. The annual CL&LR is an important event and is the kickoff to what is sure to be a consequential year for commercial real estate in terms of federal legislation. Thank you to everyone who attended and impacted commercial real estate in our region.

See Retreat Photos

 

Local Advocacy 101 RECAP

On February 12, 2025, NAIOP Charlotte hosted a Local Advocacy 101 program to help members become advocates for commercial real estate. Advocacy allows you to clarify your perspectives, use your voice about something important to our industry, and help affect change. Learn more about our local elected officials and how to connect effectively and share perspectives on commercial real estate. Take the next step and get involved.

A special thank you to our speakers: Councilman Ed Driggs, Assistant City Manager Alyson Craig, REBIC Executive Director Rob Nanfelt, and REBIC General Counsel Larry Shaheen.

Essential Tips on Interacting with Legislators and Advocacy Efforts:

Understanding the Legislative Process

  • Engaging with legislators is like a "3D Chess" game where every action has a ripple effect.
  • Know who you are speaking to and what is important to them.
  • The goal is to be relevant to the "majority + 1."
  • Make it easy for legislators to say "yes" to your proposals.
  • Real estate development is a revenue driver and critical to municipal operations (e.g., permitting offices rely on permits to function).

Effective Advocacy Strategies

  • Advocacy efforts should be bipartisan.
  • Issues supported should be non-partisan policies.
  • Beware of opposition from NIMBY (Not In My Backyard) groups.

Role of NAIOP in Advocacy

  • Strong advocacy on behalf of the commercial real estate (CRE) community.
  • Enhance the public perception of CRE professionals and projects.
  • Build relationships with legislators and local government officials.
  • Engage with local city councils, county commissioners, and state legislators.
  • Hosting legislators for meals or at events is acceptable if not a registered lobbyist.
  • Respect legislators' boundaries if they decline meetings or engagements.

Engaging with Local Government

  • Speak at public forums or directly to committee chairs.
  • Clearly outline issues, developments, and potential solutions.
  • Utilize experienced resources such as Ed Driggs for guidance.
  • Recognize and support good public servants.
  • Support pro-business, development-friendly candidates.

Government Structure and Influence

  • North Carolina (NC) operates under Dillon’s Rule: Local governments only have powers explicitly granted by the General Assembly.
  • NC General Assembly governs: If a local municipality claims they cannot act, request to see the relevant statute.
  • Land Use Regulations: Governed by NC State Statute Chapter 160D, which allows cities to adopt a Unified Development Ordinance (UDO).
  • Key Players:
    • NC State Senator Paul Newton authored Chapter 160D.
    • REBIC (Real Estate & Building Industry Coalition) plays a significant advocacy role.

Local Government Bodies

  • Mecklenburg County Government:
    • Board of County Commissioners (9 members + County Manager, Dena Diorio retiring 7/1/2025).
    • Budget: $2.5B, with significant portions allocated to education, health, public safety, and parks.
    • Elections occur in off-years (e.g., November 2026).
  • Charlotte City Council:
    • 11 members + Mayor Vi Lyles (Next election: November 2025).
    • City Council has 4 at-large members and 7 district representatives.
    • Budget: $4.2B, with major funding directed towards police, fire, and infrastructure.

Key City Council Committees & Responsibilities

  1. Budget, Governance & Intergovernmental Relations: Manages policies on public resources and state/federal engagement.
  2. Transportation, Planning & Development: Oversees mobility, environmental policies, and zoning.
  3. Jobs & Economic Development: Focuses on workforce development and job creation.
  4. Housing, Safety & Community: Addresses affordable housing, safety, and equity.

City & Developer Relations

  • The City of Charlotte aims to be a development-friendly partner.
  • Developers must understand and navigate city processes effectively.
  • CLT Development Center: A one-stop-shop to streamline project approvals.

Navigating the Legislative Process for Development

  • The UDO Advisory Committee and Development Services Technical Advisory Committee (DSTAC) influence policy changes.
  • Zoning decisions require thorough traffic and impact studies.
  • Engagement with planning and zoning committees is essential to shaping policy.

Conclusion: Successful advocacy in the commercial real estate sector requires strategic engagement, clear communication, and a strong understanding of local government structures. By leveraging relationships, participating in public discourse, and supporting development-friendly policies, real estate professionals can effectively influence decision-making processes and drive growth within the industry.

North Carolina Is the #4 State in the U.S. for CRE Development

North Carolina is the fourth highest-ranking state in the U.S. for overall contributions of commercial real estate to state GDP, with $34.2 billion, $15.2 billion in direct spending, $10.5 billion in personal earnings, and 185,936 jobs supported in 2024 (the most recent data available). 

  • Industrial (includes manufacturing): North Carolina ranks #6
  • Office: North Carolina ranks #9
  • Retail: North Carolina ranks #6
  • Warehouse: North Carolina ranks #9

The data is from “Economic Impacts of Commercial Real Estate, 2025 U.S. Edition,” published annually by the NAIOP Research Foundation.

 New commercial real estate development across the U.S. has a significant economic impact.

 The combined economic contributions of new commercial building development and the operations of existing commercial buildings in 2024 resulted in direct expenditures of $898.5 billion and the following impacts on the U.S. economy:

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Two-for-Tuesday | A Visit from US Congressman Tim Moore + NC Senate President Phil Berger and House Speaker Destin Hall Update

Originally published on February 25, 2025, by REBIC.
  1. NC Senate President Pro Tem Phil Berger and House Speaker Destin Hall Visit REBIC
    On Monday, February 24th, North Carolina Senate President Pro Tem Phil Berger and House Speaker Destin Hall visited Charlotte to brief REBIC members on the current legislative session and discuss various issues. Also present were Senators Dave Craven and Brad Overcash, along with Charlotte City Councilman and Transportation, Planning, & Development Committee Chair Ed Driggs.

    The top-of-mind issue for most in the room was the introduction of S.B. 145, the Mecklenburg Transportation Referendum. The passage of this legislation would be the first step in achieving our goal to develop and implement a regional transportation plan. The bill’s introduction marks a significant milestone following more than five years of coordinated efforts on both local and state levels. In addition to REBIC, the Partnership for Regional Cooperation and the Charlotte Regional Business Alliance have been at the forefront of this initiative. We highly encourage others in the business community to support us as we seek passage of this important bill.

    Should it make its way through the legislative process, it will then be up to the Mecklenburg County Commission to place the issue on the November ballot. At that point, taxpayers will be asked to allow for a one-cent sales tax increase to fund future transportation projects. The establishment of an authority to manage those funds will be incorporated at a later time.

    Other topics discussed included the following:
    • Disaster relief for Western North Carolina - The State of North Carolina has more than $5 billion in its rainy-day fund, but the needs, when all is said and done, will likely exceed $60 billion.
    • Crime- Legislators are working with local police departments and others as they consider legislation aimed at preventing pretrial release for some violent offenders.
    • Budget - The Senate will initiate the budget during this cycle and the changes the legislature has made in tax policy over the past decade have made a big difference in our ability to attract new businesses and grow the economy.
    • Higher Education - Legislators discussed the importance of higher education and acknowledged the elevation of UNC Charlotte to a premier national research institution.
  2. Congressman Tim Moore Provides a DC Update to REBIC Members
    Tim Moore, former North Carolina House Speaker and now US Congressman from the 14th District, visited us to discuss his latest efforts. First, he shared his work to ensure that appropriate federal resources are directed toward Western North Carolina storm victims as effectively and efficiently as possible. Next, he discussed his work on the Finance Services Committee and the Budget Committee as Congress gears up to preserve the tax relief measures put in place several years ago. He also shared information on the cost-cutting measures implemented at the federal level.

    Immediately following this event, we were lucky enough to escort him to the podcast booth, where he recorded an episode of “Getting Real with Rob.” We will announce the release date soon!

Tax Alert: Proposal To End Carried Interest Loophole

Originally published on February 20, 2025, by Bergin Fisniku for Elliott Davis.

At the beginning of February, President Trump outlined his tax priorities in a meeting with Republican lawmakers, revealing a few new proposals not previously mentioned on the campaign trail. One notable item on his agenda is the push to end the so-called “carried interest loophole.”

Around the same time, Senator Baldwin (D-WI) and her colleagues introduced the Carried Interest Fairness Act in the Senate, while Representatives Perez (WA-03) and Beyer (VA-08) put forth a similar version in the House. Their aim is clear: “to eliminate a tax loophole that benefits wealthy money managers on Wall Street.” As they argue, “[t]he current carried interest loophole allows investment managers to often pay almost half the tax rate compared to most [of their respective state’s] workers.”

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Special Statement from REBIC | Transportation Referendum Legislation (S.B. 145)

The Real Estate and Building Industry Coalition (REBIC) wishes to applaud the efforts today of Senators Bill Rabon, David Craven, and Vickie Sawyer for filing Senate Bill 145, Mecklenburg Transportation Referendum. This legislation, which REBIC strongly supports in conjunction with our partners in the business community and throughout Mecklenburg County, is an important financing tool that will enable our community to address the transportation infrastructure challenges arising from the 100 people a day moving here as we continue to be one of the most attractive regions in the nation in which to live and do business.

Leadership within our county, city, and towns continue to face budget shortfalls when trying to keep up with rapidly expanding transportation needs. The real estate industry recognizes this and knows that the solutions provided in S.B. 145 will enable continued growth and prosperity by providing an opportunity for local decision-makers to invest in transportation solutions. Without solving our infrastructure challenges, our region will continue to be constrained in our ability to provide people with mobility choices, and provide for the movement of goods and services in the most efficient and cost-effective manner possible. This investment will literally pave the way to continued opportunity and growth with direct funding for more road infrastructure and a comprehensive mobility solution for all of Mecklenburg County.

As the legislative process proceeds, we encourage all members of our community to join us in thanking Senators Rabon, Craven, and Sawyer for their leadership on this crucial matter. We appreciate their ongoing efforts and continued willingness to engage in conversations with members of our community to work on solutions that ultimately achieve the greatest outcomes for all.”

Rob Nanfelt
Executive Director
Real Estate &Building Industry Coalition (REBIC)

Scott Jennings on Political and Policy Trends in the New Administration

Originally published on February 20, 2025, by Marie Ruff for NAIOP.

 

A new year always generates a flurry of activity on Capitol Hill, and a new presidential administration amplifies the flurry into a whirlwind of new policies, initiatives, personnel, and more. During NAIOP’s Chapter Leadership and Legislative Retreat (CL&LR) earlier this month in Washington, D.C., members had the opportunity to hear from someone with extensive experience as a presidential advisor and political analyst.

Keynote Scott Jennings, CNN contributor, conservative columnist, and former advisor on four presidential campaigns, has decades of experience at the intersection of politics and the media. He began his career as a reporter and was recruited to work for then-Texas Governor George W. Bush’s 2000 presidential campaign efforts in Kentucky. Jennings became “a campaign hound,” he said, later directing operations for campaigns for Senator Mitch McConnell, George W. Bush’s presidential reelection campaign, and several others.

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Lawdragon Honors Mary Katherine Stukes as Leading Environmental Lawyer

Originally published on February 2025 by Moore & Van Allen.

NAIOP Charlotte Member and Moore & Van Allen's Head of Environmental, Mary Katherine Stukes, was named to the 2025 Lawdragon 500 Leading Environmental Lawyers – The Green 500 guide.

This is Lawdragon’s fourth edition of the guide, which recognizes Stukes in the Environmental and Real Estate categories. According to Lawdragon, the 2025 honorees represent “the enduring talent working across this critical practice.”

In her practice, Stukes advises clients on environmental issues related to various business transactions, navigates regulatory compliance issues such as remediation, permitting, and audits, and resolves environmental litigation. She leads complex brownfield redevelopment projects, including, most recently, high-density commercial and residential sites in the downtown cores of Charlotte, Raleigh, Durham, Greensboro, and Wilmington, each valued between $50 million and more than $700 million. Stukes helps manufacturers, real estate developers, lenders, local governments, and others find creative solutions in real estate, financing, and corporate transactions involving environmental risk.

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2025 NAIOP NC Conference Postponed

NC Conference has been postponed to March 4-6

Join Us on Our Rescheduled Dates!

Due to inclement weather concerns, the NAIOP NC Conference on February 20-21 has been postponed. Above all, the safety of our event attendees remains our top priority.

The conference will be moved to March 4-6, 2025 (optional networking on the 4th, sessions on the 5th, and check-out on the 6th). We recognize that this timing coincides with other industry events and have coordinated with relevant groups to notify them of the change.

Regarding Hotel Rooms:

Pinehurst Resort will automatically transfer your room to the new date. If you need to cancel your room, please call 1-844-330-1669 only.


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CL&LR Marks Important Week for NAIOP Federal Advocacy

Originally published on February 5, 2025, by Aquiles Suarez for NAIOP.

 

[In early February] NAIOP members from the U.S. and Canada attended NAIOP’s Chapter Leadership and Legislative Retreat (CL&LR) in Washington, D.C., with U.S. members scheduling meetings with their senators and representatives to educate elected officials on the issues important to the commercial real estate industry. Our annual CL&LR is an important event and is the kickoff to what is certain to be a consequential year for commercial real estate in terms of federal legislation. Just as important as the substance of the issues that will be at the center of the discussion during NAIOP’s Capitol Hill meetings are the relationships that exist and are fostered between elected representatives and their local NAIOP constituencies. The message coming from NAIOP members who are also constituents tends to leave a lasting impression on elected officials and their staff.

On their Hill visits, NAIOP members will bring up specific local issues and matters important for their senators and representatives to know regarding their markets. However, all chapters will also deliver a common message regarding the top legislative priorities at the federal level. This year, NAIOP’s federal legislative priorities, which will be a focus of our meetings, are:

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CRE Leaders: What’s on Our Minds for 2025

Originally published on February 10, 2025, by Brielle Scott for NAIOP.

 

Mark Zandi, chief economist at Moody’s Analytics, shared an overview of the macroeconomic environment and potential policies of the new administration on a recent webinar hosted by Marcus & Millichap. A panel discussion followed, and NAIOP President and CEO Marc Selvitelli joined Zandi, along with Jeffrey D. DeBoer, president and CEO of The Real Estate Roundtable; Hessam Nadji, president and CEO of Marcus & Millichap; and Sharon Wilson Géno, president, NMHC, to discuss key trends for commercial real estate.

 

Key takeaways from their discussion:

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    Mary Katherine Stukes Named a Charlotte Business Journal Women in Business Honoree

    Originally published on January 27, 2025, by Moore & Van Allen.

    Mary Katherin StukesNAIOP Charlotte Member and Moore & Van Allen's Head of Environmental, Mary Katherine Stukes, was selected for the Charlotte Business Journal’s 2025 Women in Business Awards program.

    This highly competitive program, now in its 29th year, celebrates 25 women impacting the Charlotte region through career accomplishments and community involvement. Honorees will be spotlighted in a forthcoming CBJ special report and formally recognized during an awards program on March 20.

    Stukes was selected based on her firm and industry leadership, track record of success in brownfield redevelopment matters, and meaningful endeavors as co-chair of MVA’s Women of Moore & Van Allen (WoMVA) Business Resource Group.

     Read More

    New Report: 2025 Economic Impacts of Commercial Real Estate

    Originally published in January 2025 by Brian Lewandowski, Adam Illig, Ethan Street, and Richard Wobbekind, Ph.D. by the NAIOP Research Foundation.

    The NAIOP Research Foundation has published the annual Economic Impacts of Commercial Real Estate, 2025 U.S. Edition, research study. The combined economic contributions of new commercial building development and the operations of existing commercial buildings in 2024 resulted in direct expenditures of $898.5 billion and the following impacts on the U.S. economy:

    • Contributed $2.5 trillion to U.S. GDP.
    • Generated $862.5 billion in personal earnings.
    • Supported a total of 14.2 million jobs.

    Other highlights from the report:

    • Each $1 of construction spending generated a total value of $2.95 for the economy, reflecting the cumulative effects of the initial construction expenditures as they cycle.
    • The U.S. Census Bureau estimates that private data centers represented 28.7% of office construction value in 2024, an increase from 19.7% in 2023. This is the first year the organization has separated data center construction from financial and general office construction.
    • Industrial (manufacturing) and warehousing starts are down but still significantly above pre-pandemic levels. Much of the new online construction can be attributed to recent reshoring efforts in the U.S., including the CHIPS Act and Inflation Reduction Act.
    • Demand for retail space in 2024 remained strong and shifted toward smaller, more creative spaces. Successful retailers offered experiential shopping with a more personalized touch or other activities, such as dining, for consumers to engage in between shopping. While larger department stores struggled, retail as a whole proved resilient.
    • Some cities have experienced a larger recovery in office attendance than others. New York, for example, reached 82% utilization as of October 2024 and 91% for top-tier office buildings, indicative of a shift in demand to high-quality office properties. See data by State.
    Download the Report

    The Country’s Largest Urban Hot Spots Embrace Adaptive Reuse in Self-storage

    Originally published on January 9, 2025, by Maria Gatea for NAIOP.

    Self-storage construction has been on an upward trend since 2020 as the sector has become increasingly popular with American consumers, offering flexible solutions for life’s many transitions. While new construction has dominated the industry for decades, a significant shift is occurring: Existing industrial and retail buildings are being converted into self-storage facilities. This trend is optimizing urban real estate and meeting the growing demand for storage in densely populated areas.

    Conversions account for 9% of the country’s self-storage inventory

    Approximately 9% of the U.S.’s total self-storage inventory – nearly 191 million square feet – now consists of converted spaces, according to recent StorageCafe research. These conversions are spread across more than 2,300 facilities nationwide...

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    CRE Outlook for 2025: Cautiously Optimistic

    Originally published on January 6, 2025, by Ed Finkel for NAIOP.

    The fortunes of the commercial real estate sector should be somewhere between status quo and modestly improved over the next year, with housing, industrial, data center, and advanced manufacturing among the most dynamic asset classes, according to a cross-section of developers and investors who sit on NAIOP’s board of directors.

    Matt McInnis, partner at Front Street Capital in central North Carolina and a NAIOP North Carolina Piedmont Triad member, forecasts a mixed picture. “There are a lot of positive dynamics that are unfolding for us, but for every one of those, there’s something that’s going to constrain euphoric growth,” he said. “We see a lot of people finally in a head space where they’re willing to commit to a project. In 2024, there was a lot of looking. That’s started to change.”

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    2025 Cornerstone Sponsorship Opportunities

    2025 Cornerstone Sponsorship Info

    2025 Cornerstone Sponsorship OpportunitiesNAIOP Charlotte has a strong and active membership comprised of commercial developers, owners, brokers, bankers, architects, engineers, attorneys, and title companies working to advance all commercial real estate sectors.

    The Cornerstone Sponsorship supports and enriches the Charlotte Chapter while offering professionals and organizations an opportunity to build and strengthen relationships, increase brand visibility, attend key industry events, and have an active voice in Charlotte’s commercial real estate activities.

    Cornerstone Sponsorship Program

    2024 Annual Meeting Resource Information

    On December 4, 2024, NAIOP Charlotte hosted the Annual Meeting: Navigating the Horizon in 2025. The panel peeked into the future of Charlotte's commercial real estate landscape as we explored the public policy shifts, legislative changes, and evolving business practices poised to shape the industry. Below are resources to dive deeper into the discussions.

    ESG Reporting Requirements