Can CRE Investors Dodge Tariff and GSA Office Turbulence?

Martha, Manus, and Dianne tackle another week of economic uncertainty, breaking down the latest data—and tariff turbulence—and what it signals for CRE. Stagflation fears are creeping in as the economy weathers a turbulent cycle—much like a white-water rafting trip, where each rapid brings fresh uncertainty. Mortgage applications jumped over 20% as buyers seized lower rates, while a surprising wave of scorched land listings in LA hints at long-term fallout from recent wildfires. Dianne shares insights from the CRE activity index, with February data showing strong momentum despite macroeconomic headwinds. In Manhattan, institutional investors are eyeing opportunities as leasing activity surges, and Manus breaks down why savvy buyers are acquiring debt to skip the foreclosure line. He also reflects on a sharp question from a Clemson student at his guest lecture last week: when is the right time to pick up distressed assets? Meanwhile, the team debuts a new segment—LightBox Listings—highlighting new deals on the market. And finally, in a lighter moment, they discuss the 60-foot Kim Kardashian balloon making waves in Times Square. 01:34 Tariff Turbulence and Investor Sentiment 08:31 How do you Handicap the Housing Market Right Now? 13:29 Lightbox Data Dive with Deal Activity  17:23 Office Sector Updates 19:36 Investor Activity in San Francisco and New York 26:18 AI's Impact on Commercial Real Estate 30:19 LightBox Listings and Market ActivityHave questions for the pod team? Send them to [email protected]. Send us Fan Mailwww.lightboxre.com