Central Texas' industrial commercial real estate market is steadily strengthening. Businesses seeking lease space are facing rental rate increases and decreasing selection. While new developments are planned, projections for the short-to-medium term suggest continued tightening of the market. Options currently available in industrial, flex and manufacturing space are becoming increasingly limited in key submarkets.

In today's market concessions and perks are becoming a memory. Landlords offer fewer rent-free months or other perks common only a year ago. After several years of vacancies and decreasing demand, landlords are embracing a market turn in their favor. Today the leasing process requires a new level of strategy to meet everyone's needs.

While companies may be willing to pay more, an even bigger concern is the decreasing options in space. Fewer large blocks of space in the 50,000 to 100,000 square foot range remain in the Austin-area. The same is true for the 5,000 to 10,000 square foot market. If this is the space your company needs, the time to review options is now.

"We've been expanding steadily and reached an important juncture. Zoe's extensive, highly professional experience in law firm operations is a great asset and will help us streamline many processes as we expand," said Michael Kennedy, President, Commercial Texas.

One of the most interesting shifts in the Austin real estate market is the new focus on townhouses and condos. Five years ago few really saw the trend taking hold in Austin- and few thought it ever would.

A storm of influences, however, is converging and driving the development and interest in townhouse/condo living. Aging Boomers, who no longer need the large yard and five bedroom suburban home, have been increasingly downsizing their residences. Townhouses, which offer a low-maintenance, lock-and-go lifestyle, provide freedom and convenience.

Why leave Austin? Studies show the majority of Boomers do not want to leave their region of residence - many will continue working well past previous ages of retirement and have no desire to pull- up their roots. According to recent studies, most Boomers want to downsize without long-haul moves. As a result, many are increasingly looking for alternatives locally - regardless of where they're based.

Trinity Title of Texas specializes in providing customized closing services to commercial and residential property buyers. Founded by industry veterans, representing over 75 years of experience, the firm combines individualized service and today's leading technology platforms to serve clients.

"We've developed a fresh approach to providing title services and are excited about our launch," said Bob Brewer, President and Co-founder. "Commercial Texas helped us find the right space for our launch and ongoing expansion. We had several specific needs and appreciated their strategic understanding of the market."

Five years have passed since the "tech wreck" of 2000. The Austin area's economy suffered a substantial blow when technology stocks plummeted and funding for technology startups dried up. Thousands of jobs were lost.

But Austin's commercial real estate markets are bouncing back. Transportation improvements are already providing a foundation for new commercial development opportunities.