SVNIC’s 2016 Market Outlook Reports assess the current state of the national commercial real estate market, and identify micro-trends within specific geographic regions and industries for 2016. Today we are delving into the 2016 Top Retail Markets to Watch. Not the largest or the most actively contested markets, the 2016 Retail Markets to Watch are each at an important juncture that presents unique opportunities for investment. Together, they reflect the diversity of trends that is driving the economy and commercial real estate performance in markets across the country.

Top Retail Market to Watch: Austin, TX

Retail real estate should perform well in Austin in 2016 and beyond, as this dynamic economy continues to grow and diversify. According to the Census Bureau, the population of Austin has grown 12.5% from 2010 to 2014. Not surprisingly, the economy looks stellar with a 3.2% unemployment rate as of January ‘16 and jobs are growing at 4.7% annually, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The best sectors for job growth are Mining, Logging, and Construction and Leisure and Hospitality, growing at 11.0% and 9.2% annualized rates, respectively. These forces will keep new residents locating in the metro region and businesses expanding. Retail demand will follow the population and should continue expanding in 2016 with ever-increasing fundamentals.

Advisor Insights: SVN | Tamarack in Austin, TX

SVN’s Austin-based Advisors at SVN | Tamarack have some retail market highlights to share:

Gateway Cities like Austin continue to benefit from diverse job creation ranging from service jobs to higher-end STEM (science, technology, engineering and math). It remains an attractive place to live for all generations. Due to the continued numbers of people moving to Austin all property types are attractive but retail properties will continue to be the most favorable investment type.

Austin has a tight market for space so we will see most new construction in sub-markets of Austin such as Lakeway, Leander and Cedar Park.

• With average rental rates averaging $20 – $23.50 per square foot, rates are expected to increase by more than 4% by the end of 2016.
• Values in the retail market are expected to increase by 2% – 3.9% by year end.
• Absorption has been positive for the previous five years and is expected to increase to an estimated 350,000 square feet within 2016. With slightly more than 300,000 square feet of retail space expected to be constructed by the end of 2016 the occupancy rate will also increase above its current 94% rate. Retail properties that are under construction, planned and proposed represent a 3% growth to the current Austin market.
• Cap rates are currently 6.8% – 7% and are expected to stay relatively flat for the next 6 months.

Stay Updated…

Over the next few weeks, the SVN Blog will be featuring posts that will focus on each of the top markets to watch for industrial, multifamily, office, and retail properties. SVN Advisors from selected top markets have provided their industry expertise regarding what to look out for in their specific market in the coming months. Don’t miss out on these important insights – subscribe to the SVN Blog on the right side of the blog homepage.

To read more on other top retail markets, download the full version of the 2016 Retail Market Outlook report here.

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