Articles

Heitman Research: U.S. Property Market Update

September, 2007

PowerPoint presentation from Heitman Research.   » download presentation ...

Reduced Interest Rates

September 11, 2007

A combination of factors, including the recent bond rally and the emergence of portfolio lenders, has resulted in 5-year fixed rates of 6% for average quality multi-family properties. Commercial property financing is available at slightly higher interest rates (6.25% to 6.75%). Portfolio lenders have strengthened their strategic position in the current market, while many conduit/CMBS lenders have elected to cease issuing loan quotes or Letters of Interest. Those conduit/CMBS lenders that are issuing loan quotes have increased the spreads to compensate for challenging capital market conditions. A portfolio lender funds loans with its own capital and has the ability to hold loans on its balance sheet.

Appraised Value - Sales Price - Loan Amount

Commercial/Multi-Family real estate purchase contracts have customarily excluded any contingency provisions related to the appraised property value as it relates to the sales price. This practice differs from A.A.R., residential purchase contract language, which includes an appraised value contingency provision. According to the residential purchase contract, buyers have the right to cancel the contract in the event that the appraised value is less than the purchase contract. Commercial/Multi-Family real estate buyers waive all contingencies prior to the end of the financing contingency period, based on their receipt of a financing commitment from a reliable lender. The property appraisal is intended to meet the underwriting requirements of the lender, and is not intended for the use of the buyer or seller.
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