Tips
Turning lower interest rates into new development opportunities
With borrowing costs beginning to ease, it’s time to re-evaluate paused projects — and plan strategically for growth The Federal Reserve recently lowered interest rates again, cutting its benchmark rate by a quarter point. The move is designed to ease borrowing costs and boost growth — and for commercial developers and senior living operators alike,…
Land contracts: Making deals happen when capital is tight
The growing appeal of land contracts in the Upper Midwest Business owners, developers, brokers, and landowners across Wisconsin and Minnesota face a familiar question: How do we keep projects moving forward in today’s market? One answer gaining renewed attention is the land contract — also known as a contract for deed or seller financing. Though…
How 1031 exchanges can work for new construction
Across the Upper Midwest, there’s an overlooked way to keep deals alive: using a 1031 exchange for new construction projects — a powerful way to keep projects moving forward when capital is tight. Most investors know the basics of a 1031 exchange — sell an investment property, reinvest in another, and defer capital gains taxes.…
Future-proof your commercial property against rising insurance costs
How strategic design and construction can reduce your insurance premiums and protect your investment If your commercial property insurance bill gave you sticker shock this year, you’re not alone. Across the country, premiums are rising fast — and many property owners are facing double-digit increases. Whether you’re a developer planning your next project or an…
Navigating construction financing in a higher interest economy
How to secure funding for your build amid elevated interest rates If you’re thinking about breaking ground but hit a bump in the road with your lender’s quote, it’s a sign of the times. With interest rates lingering at recent highs and tighter lender terms, getting your project off the ground takes more financial finesse…
Design-build delivery a safer bet in periods of uncertainty
As the U.S. economy grapples with heightened uncertainty, marked by trade tensions, market volatility, and shifting fiscal policies, real estate developers and commercial property owners face the challenge of making strategic decisions. In such times, adopting the design-build delivery method offers a proactive approach to mitigate risks and maintain project momentum. In fact, according to…
Reducing risk in commercial construction is possible. Here’s how.
The key is to focus on collaboration from the start. When you’re planning a commercial construction project — whether it’s senior living, multifamily housing, office space, automobile dealership, or other commercial building project — risk management should be part of your strategy from the very beginning. Risks like schedule delays and budget overruns can derail…
Attention, developers: The hottest rental market is in our backyard.
Midwest and Minneapolis are rental markets to watch in 2025. Minneapolis is the top city for attracting rental interest, and developers in the know may be keeping their eyes on the market throughout 2025 as they consider their next commercial build. That’s according to RentCafe.com, which issues reports that rank the top rental markets based…
5 Most Commonly Asked Questions About Real Estate Development
You’ve decided to develop real estate, but before you do, chances are you have questions.
Waiting for commercial construction costs to drop?
Playing the waiting game may not be worth it. Here’s why. What goes up must come down, right? Turns out the adage isn’t actually true all the time, including when it comes to commercial construction costs. If you’re among those trying to patiently wait out inflation and other cost increases to drive down the price…