Author: Calloway Title and Escrow, LLC

At Calloway Title, we are committed to keeping our clients informed of any legal or regulatory changes that could impact your business.

A significant change has been enacted that affects Georgia’s Deeds to Secure Debt and the classification and taxation of certain loans.

On April 4, 2025, the Georgia Senate passed House Bill 586 (HB 586), which was signed into law by the Governor on May 9, 2025. This bill revises O.C.G.A. § 48-6-60(3), affecting the treatment of “short-term notes” under Georgia’s intangible recording tax regime.

Key Change to O.C.G.A. § 48-6-60(3)

Prior to this amendment, a “short-term note” was defined as any instrument securing indebtedness with a maturity not exceeding three years (36 months) from the date of execution. Loans exceeding this term were subject to Georgia’s intangible recording tax (calculated at $1.50 per $500 of principal indebtedness).

Effective July 1, 2025, the maturity limitation for qualifying as a “short-term note” is extended from 36 months to 62 months (five years and two months)— a significant extension that could reduce tax burdens for longer-term financing arrangements. Notes falling within this new window will remain exempt from intangible tax assessments, provided they otherwise meet the statutory criteria.

See Official Bill Text of HB 586

Why This Matters to Commercial Real Estate Investors, Developers and Lenders

✔️ Increased Loan Flexibility:
Borrowers and lenders can now structure real property loans with maturities up to 62 months without triggering Georgia’s intangible recording tax, providing more options for financing development projects, value-add acquisitions or stabilized assets awaiting permanent financing.

✔️ Potential Cost Savings:
Intangible recording tax is assessed at $1.50 per $500 of principal indebtedness. On large commercial loans, this tax can be substantial. With this law change, loans previously deemed “long-term” — and therefore taxable — may now fall within the expanded short-term exemption window, reducing upfront transaction costs.

✔️ Alignment with Market Needs:
The revision reflects modern commercial financing practices, where loan terms often exceed three years but remain under five. The change enhances Georgia’s competitiveness as a jurisdiction for real estate lending and development. It also helps level the playing field for entities like community banks, allowing them to compete more fairly against larger banks and tax-exempt financial services companies, according to this article.

✔️ Reassessment Opportunity for Existing and Pending Loans:
Parties considering loan modifications, extensions or refinancing should reassess their documents to see if adjusting terms under the new law could secure tax advantages.

We strongly encourage all our clients to review their upcoming and existing loan agreements and discuss these changes with their legal counsel, lenders and tax advisors to ensure they are fully prepared ahead of the July 1, 2025, effective date.

Calloway Title—Your Partner in Commercial Real Estate Success.

Our team has extensive experience handling complex, high-value commercial transactions across Georgia, including projects such as Truist Park, Atlantic Station and the Atlanta Beltline, which you can explore in our portfolio.

We understand the intricacies of Georgia’s title laws, lending practices and tax considerations, and we leverage this knowledge to protect your interests at every stage of the transaction. As this latest change with HB 586 shows, staying ahead of legislative shifts is crucial to maximizing value and minimizing risk. Let our experienced team guide you through your next commercial closing with confidence.

See why Georgia and the rest of the nation’s top developers trust Calloway Title. Visit www.titlelaw.com to work with us.

Florida has long been a magnet for commercial real estate investors, and for good reason. With its growing population, thriving economy, lack of state income tax and favorable landlord-tenant conditions, the Sunshine State offers diverse opportunities for both domestic and international investors. Recently, Pensacola has emerged as a standout market. Here, we’ll explore why Florida’s commercial market is thriving, why Pensacola is a city to watch and how Calloway Title and Escrow has become a trusted partner in fueling the region’s growth.

Florida Commercial Real Estate Market

A Rapidly Growing Population and Strong Performance Across Sectors

Florida continues to experience steady population growth, with many people relocating for sunnier weather, favorable tax policies and a high quality of life. According to recent statistics, Florida still boasts one of the fastest-growing populations in the country, with the U.S. Census Bureau reporting a net gain of more than 64,000 domestic residents from July 2023 to July 2024.  

Florida’s commercial real estate market is among the strongest in the country, and it’s one of the top states for new construction projects. Warehouses, retail centers, office spaces and hospitality properties all show steady growth trends. In general, investors find Florida’s market to be both financially rewarding and low-risk, offering a favorable environment for long-term growth.

Pensacola, Florida Commercial Real Estate Market

A Bright Spot for Commercial Development

While cities like Miami and Orlando often take center stage, Pensacola is quietly emerging as a promising market for commercial real estate in Florida. Positioned along the Gulf Coast, Pensacola combines natural beauty with growing economic opportunity.

Several factors contribute to Pensacola’s growing appeal:

1. Population Growth
   Like the rest of Florida, Pensacola has seen steady population growth. “Just 10 years ago, the downtown population was about 600, but that number has since skyrocketed to more than 5,000,” according to this article. “The city’s affordability, military presence, coastal charm and growing job market make it a top destination for retirees, remote workers, healthcare professionals and military families,” says Nicole St. Aubin with Realty Masters of Florida.
2. The Shift to Remote Work
   The rise of remote work has allowed more individuals to relocate to desirable areas such as Pensacola. This article explains, “The transition into remote work also left behind an abundance of office space after 2020, which has since created new opportunities for businesses to establish themselves in the downtown area.”
3. Booming Tourism Industry
   Tourism remains a significant economic driver in Pensacola, with Visit Pensacola reporting record-breaking visitation in 2024. This article explains that the appeal of downtown Pensacola as a destination for both businesses and tourism is evident in the city’s infrastructure improvements, such as the airport’s terminal expansions and development and reinvestment in hotels, like the Hilton Garden Inn.

Key Projects

Hilton Garden Inn in Downtown Pensacola

Calloway Title and Escrow recently completed the title work and facilitated the closing for the Hilton Garden Inn Pensacola Downtown, following a string of Florida deals our team has worked on over the last several decades. The hotel is strategically located 1.8 miles from Bayview Dog Beach and a 16-minute walk from Saenger Theatre. The property is around an 18-minute walk from Wayside Park, 0.9 miles from Pensacola Visitor Information Center and 4.3 miles from the Fairfield Village Shopping Center.

Known for handling complex commercial title transactions nationwide, our efforts here add to our growing reputation as a trusted partner for Florida’s commercial real estate community.

Additional Momentum

Beyond hotels like the Hilton Garden Inn, other key projects shaping Pensacola’s future include the Bluffs industrial campus expansion, University Town Plaza redevelopment, Project Lionheart and improvements to the Downtown Waterfront.

Obstacles to Developing Real Estate in Pensacola

While the opportunities in Pensacola are abundant, challenges remain. Two of the biggest obstacles that businesses, investors and developers face are parking, as well as land development and zoning regulations. While the zoning overlay in downtown provides a 100 percent discount on parking requirements for local businesses, and the city has passed a new building height ordinance if certain requirements are met, the limited number of public and private parking spaces and the complex zoning requirements remain an issue for bringing in national brands and franchise establishments.

However, partnering with an experienced commercial title company can make a difference. Our team conducts thorough research to ensure that a property complies with local zoning laws and land use regulations. We also uncover any existing restrictions, resolve discrepancies or encumbrances related to zoning or land use before the transaction closes and can provide zoning endorsements as part of the title insurance policy.

Pensacola’s Future Is Bright – And Calloway Title Is Here to Help

“Real estate remains a stable investment in this part of Florida, and with property values continuing to appreciate, downtown Pensacola will likely remain a hotspot for commercial real estate for many years,” states this article. “…As real estate values increase, larger chains will undoubtedly pursue opening new locations along and near Palafox Street.”

At Calloway Title and Escrow, we’ve helped many commercial real estate professionals navigate the Florida market. Pensacola and the rest of the state offer a diverse mix of investment opportunities to suit every strategy and budget. If you’re looking to expand your portfolio in Florida or anywhere in the nation, Calloway Title will help you close the deal. Visit www.titlelaw.com to work with us on your next commercial transaction.

TriBridge Residential recently completed two massive multifamily housing acquisitions in Florida, relying on Calloway Title and Escrow’s expertise to handle the title work and streamline the closing process. The first acquisition, the 312-unitExchange at St. Augustine Apartments, closed for $57.66 million. The second deal involved The Mark at Wildwood, a newly built 294-unit apartment community in Oxford at the edge of The Villages—one of Florida’s most sought-after master-planned communities.

Notably, the multifamily sector has shown resilience despite a supply shock, with national vacancy rates increasing only 10 basis points in Q4 2024, supported by strong rental demand and steady absorption of nearly 500 units monthly over the past year, according to Moody’s CRE Q4 trends.

If you’re a real estate investor or developer considering your next acquisition or development project, here’s why consistently partnering with the same title company can transform how you do business—just like Atlanta-based TriBridge Residential does with Calloway Title.

1. Streamlined Processes Lead to Faster Closings

Working with the same company simplifies your workflow. Over time, the title company becomes deeply familiar with your business processes, preferred communication methods and nuanced requirements. Plus, they already have access to your prior documentation. A title company that knows how you operate can expedite these administrative steps, reduce bottlenecks and close deals faster—helping you meet critical deadlines and stay ahead in competitive markets, especially in high-demand regions like Florida.

2. Proactive Problem-Solving Based on Past Experiences

Seasoned real estate investors know that no two deals are alike. From title defects to zoning complexities, every transaction comes with its own set of curveballs. When you consistently work with an experienced title company, they gain an understanding of your unique goals and common challenges that crop up in transactions similar to those you’ve managed in the past.

When Calloway Title supported TriBridge Residential, we drew upon our deep understanding of multifamily property acquisitions in the Southeast, where variables like jurisdictional regulations and encumbrances can differ drastically from state to state. Our local experience and vast knowledge ensured TriBridge Residential closed both deals seamlessly.

 

3. Enhanced Communication Reduces Errors and Risks

Clear, effective communication is vital during any commercial real estate transaction. Misunderstandings or errors can result in costly delays or even legal disputes. A trusted partner who understands your priorities reduces that risk significantly.

When you work with the same title company repeatedly, you build rapport and the lines of communication naturally improve.

At Calloway Title, we focus on building relationships. We learn who your key decision-makers are, your preferred forms of collaboration (i.e., in person, over the phone, email, etc.) and your timeline expectations, and we’re always ready to answer your questions.

Why It Pays Off Long-Term

Investing in a long-term relationship with a commercial title company like Calloway Title doesn’t just save time—it protects your investments and strengthens your competitive advantage. These benefits grow exponentially with every deal, across property development and large-scale acquisitions, especially in booming markets.

Companies like TriBridge Residential are building frameworks for future growth, region by region, project by project.

Your Next Move

Are you ready to experience the benefits of working with one title company across all your commercial real estate transactions? From Florida to Georgia, South Carolina to Tennessee, and beyond, Calloway Title can help. Visit www.titlelaw.com to work with us.

A beloved local institution, Bankhead Seafood, recently returned to West Atlanta. Spearheaded by Atlanta icons, rappers T.I. and Killer Mike, this reopening has captured the hearts of locals while sparking conversations about community investment, commercial development and the future of the restaurant industry.

Calloway Title and Escrow played a pivotal role in ensuring this project’s completion, handling the title work and closing the deal that put Bankhead Seafood back on Atlanta’s map.

State of the Restaurant Industry

The restaurant industry is full of opportunities and cautious optimism from investors nationwide. According to the 2025 State of the Restaurant Industry report, “Consumers plan to continue spending in their local restaurants, pushing industry sales to a projected $1.5 trillion this year.” The industry will also add a projected two hundred thousand jobs.

Yet, challenges persist. Fine and casual dining establishments prioritize building on-premises traffic and creating an experience beyond a good meal. “64% of full-service customers and 47% of limited-service customers say their dining experience is more important than the price,” states this article. Additionally, rising food costs, workforce shortages and increased competition emphasize the importance of innovative approaches to stay relevant in the market.

Bankhead Seafood’s relaunch perfectly exemplifies overcoming these challenges by balancing tradition with innovation.

The Legacy of Bankhead Seafood

For more than 50 years, Bankhead Seafood served the Atlanta community, becoming a staple in the Westside neighborhood. Founded by Helen Brown Harden, the restaurant was known for its warm, welcoming atmosphere and famous fried fish and hush puppies.

After its closure in 2018, many lamented the loss of a community hub. Hope was reignited when rappers and entrepreneurs T.I. and Killer Mike purchased the property with a vision to preserve its legacy while modernizing its offerings. For them, this wasn’t just a business transaction but a labor of love rooted in the community.

“Ms. Harden has been feeding this community and offering employment opportunities for decades. It’s an honor to carry on her legacy,” T.I. shared at the reopening ceremony, as reported by WSB Radio.

Killer Mike emphasized reinvestment in the Westside neighborhood, saying, “We don’t want Atlantans to drive 20 minutes north or south to find good food. They deserve it right here.”

The Reopening of Bankhead Seafood

Fast-forward to November 2024, and Bankhead Seafood is back. Combining original recipes with modern renovations, the restaurant now boasts rooftop dining, a sit-down area, a full bar and a food truck. The updates will cater to long-time guests and a new wave of diners, reinforcing its status as a landmark for future generations.

Chef Sabrina Thompson leads the kitchen, serving fan favorites alongside new additions like vegan dishes. The original “finger-licking” fried fish remains a star on the menu, giving loyal customers a taste of nostalgia. Community member Vickie Turner described the food as “legendary,” telling 11Alive that no other seafood could compare.

This ambitious revival didn’t come easy. It took a four-year process, a million-dollar loan secured in 2023 and collaboration with developers, architects and businesses like Calloway Title and Escrow to bring the project to life. It’s a testament to hard work and the power of pouring back into your community.

Implications for Commercial Real Estate

Bankhead Seafood’s reopening also sends ripples through the local commercial real estate scene. Restaurants like this don’t just impact consumers; they affect property values, foot traffic and commercial investment in the areas around them. It serves as the latest contribution to the Westside of Atlanta’s existing wave of redevelopment, with projects like T.I.’s Intrada Westside pushing growth further.

Whether you’re a foodie eager to try Bankhead’s “Dope Boy Po’ Boy” or a developer seeking the inspiration to invest in your community’s commercial scene, this is your sign to get involved. Visit www.titlelaw.com to work with Calloway Title on your next commercial deal.

Georgia’s sports history and unwavering passion for athletic excellence have been gaining national and global attention. With groundbreaking projects like U.S. Soccer’s first-ever National Training Center in Fayette County, the Peach State is proving to be a hub for sports investment, business and innovation. A major contributor to the realization of large-scale sports projects in the state is Calloway Title and Escrow. Founded by Marcus S. Calloway, whose pioneering work also brought Major League Rugby to Atlanta in 2019, our firm has consistently helped close high-impact deals in and out of the sports industry.

From our involvement in securing the site of U.S. Soccer’s Training Center to landmark projects like Truist Park, LakePoint Sports and Orlando Sportsplex, we are a trusted commercial title partner for these types of ventures.

U.S. Soccer’s Fayette County Training Center

Spanning 200 acres, this world-class facility will include over a dozen soccer fields, over 100,000 square feet of indoor courts and more than 200,000 square feet of high-performance facilities, locker rooms, headquarters offices and meeting spaces. The center will house all 27 U.S. Soccer National Teams, including Men’s, Women’s, Youth and Extended National Teams.

The project was made possible through a $50 million investment from philanthropist and Atlanta United owner Arthur M. Blank. It signifies commitment at every level—from enhancing training and development for talent to providing local communities with business and career opportunities, according to this article. Georgia Governor Brian Kemp told The Atlanta Voice, “More than 400 jobs will be made available during and after construction.” Additionally, the development aligns with local initiatives to build community-driven programs, including partnerships with nonprofits like Soccer in the Streets to promote equal access to coaching and training.

What Makes Georgia a Hot Spot for Sports Investments

Georgia has evolved into one of the most attractive states for commercial sports ventures and events, with Atlanta even earning the title “Sports Capital of the World” from Forbes after landing another MLB All-Star game that will come to town this year (2025). Here are just a few reasons why Georgia has become a hotspot and why Fayette County was the right choice for the National Training Center.

1. A Business-Friendly Climate

Georgia’s low tax rates, robust legal structure and government-backed incentives create a favorable environment for investors. The state consistently ranks as a top state for business, making it an appealing destination for high-value initiatives like the U.S. Soccer Training Center.

2. World-Class Infrastructure

Few places rival Georgia’s logistics and transportation network. The National Training Center’s location, just 15 miles from the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport—the world’s busiest airport, offers global accessibility. With direct flights to over 150 U.S. and 70 international destinations, the facility is ideally positioned to serve athletes, coaches, referees and soccer enthusiasts nationwide, according to this article.

3. Proximity to Talent

Georgia is already home to powerhouse organizations like Mercedes-Benz Stadium, The Masters and the College Football Hall of Fame, making it a deep pool of talent for both players and professionals. The training center’s location near this rich ecosystem of resources adds significant strategic value.

The future of soccer and other sports-related industries is promising, and we are proud to support its growth. Visit www.titlelaw.com to work with Calloway Title on your next commercial deal.

The hotel industry has historically been considered a riskier asset class due to seasonality and short-term rental models. However, changes in consumer behavior following the COVID-19 pandemic have shined a light on their long-term potential and ability to maintain value. According to Deloitte’s 2025 Commercial Real Estate Outlook, “hotel assets have risen significantly in investor interest, now ranking fifth among the asset classes expected to present the greatest opportunity for real estate investors over the next 12 to 18 months.” Unlike office or retail spaces, hotels are incredibly adaptive to economic and societal shifts.

For Instance:

• Hotels generate dynamic revenue streams. From daily room rates to special packages, F&B services and events, the profit channels go far beyond typical commercial buildings reliant on static leases.
• Hotels support urban and suburban revitalization efforts. Their economic impact fosters community growth, from creating jobs to boosting tourism and related businesses.
• Hotels naturally diversify risk. “By including hotel assets in their portfolios, investors can spread risk more effectively across multiple real estate sectors,” explains this article. With robust management and the ability to adapt to changing demands, they stand as a hedge against external uncertainties.
• Many hotels, especially boutique and luxury brands, have been a solution for mixed-use developments, pairing their accommodations with retail spaces or cultural attractions.

This adaptability allows hotels to remain relevant and profitable in fluctuating markets, and investors are well aware of the benefits. “JLL’s annual Hotel Investor Sentiment Survey found a record 80% of investors intend to maintain or increase their capital investment in the hotel sector over the coming year,” states this article.

The DeSoto Hotel in Savannah, GA

The DeSoto Hotel in the heart of historic Savannah is a shining example of a hotel’s ability to maintain its value. Known for its Southern charm and unmatched luxury, the DeSoto has been an integral part of the city since its opening in the 1800s. Featuring modern amenities, farm-to-table dining and locally inspired design, it continues to attract both leisure and business travelers.

Calloway Title was pivotal in facilitating a smooth transaction for the DeSoto’s ownership transfer. Ensuring clean title work and error-free closings is key to securing investments like these, and we’re proud to support deals that elevate hospitality standards.

2025 Outlook for Hotel Investments

The future of hotel investments looks particularly bright as we approach 2025. According to a recent survey by JLL, optimism in the hotel sector is at an all-time high. With Federal Reserve rate cuts, stabilizing capital costs and robust performance in key urban markets, investors are actively seeking hotel opportunities.

Emerging Trends:

• Growth in Urban Markets: “78% of investors plan to deploy the bulk of their hotel investment capital into cities over the next year,” according to this article. Cities like New York, San Francisco and Savannah are experiencing heightened interest from domestic and international investors.
• Cross-Border Investments: Global investors are targeting U.S. hotel properties due to the strength of the dollar and promising performance metrics.
• Increasing First-Time Buyers: The hotel sector is attracting new players, including private equity firms and high-net-worth individuals.

Work with Calloway Title

Investing in hotels has its challenges, but working with the right title partner can make all the difference in streamlining transactions and mitigating risks.

We have experience in handling title work for large-scale hospitality ventures. Our portfolio includes The DeSoto Hotel, The St. Regis Hotel Atlanta, Mandarin Oriental, Sea Island, GA,  Hilton Garden Inn Orlando at SeaWorld and more. Visit www.titlelaw.com to work with Calloway Title on your next commercial deal.

Commercial real estate projects are more than just buildings; they are catalysts for change, breathing new life into communities and shaping the futures of countless individuals and, in some cases, animals. Calloway Title recently completed the title work and helped close the deal on the Mustang and Wild Horse Rescue of Georgia. The local rescue is a haven for these animals to be rehabilitated and re-adopted. This is important work, and despite the declining horse population, the industry’s economic impact and job creation continue to grow. “The 2023 National Equine Economic Impact Study highlights the significant contributions of the equine industry to the U.S. economy, with a total added value of $177 billion. This industry supports 2.2 million jobs across various sectors, including agriculture, tourism, veterinary services and more,” states this article.

Investing in equestrian properties presents a straightforward and stable opportunity when compared to other real estate ventures. “There will typically be a fixed number of equine properties in any given area unlike multifamily properties, for instance, in which supply and inventory is constantly shifting,” explains this article. Additionally, farmland value is less likely to depreciate and can be an effective hedge against inflation, meaning your investment can yield high returns. If used as a sanctuary or rescue, an equine property may establish non-profit status and qualify for additional tax benefits and grants.

Here’s what you should know about the Mustang and Wild Horse Rescue of Georgia and our involvement in this project.

The Mustang and Wild Horse Rescue of Georgia (MWHR) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to providing a program for wild horses captured by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) wild horse roundups. MWHR gentles and rehabilitates wild horses they rescue so they can be successfully re-adopted by new owners. They also plan to expand their sanctuary for unadoptable mustangs and are passionate about raising awareness of the importance of these legendary animals.

Strategic partnerships play a huge role in this non-profit organization’s success. They have corporate donors, including Chick-fil-A at Avalon, Equine & Equestrian Chiropractic, LLC, Trader Joe’s Roswell and more. They also partner with the Kroger Community Rewards Program and the AmazonSmile Program.

Another strategic partnership was with our team at Calloway Title. As animal lovers, this was a particularly special project. We completed a title search to ensure that all 16-plus acres were free and clear of title defects before closing so that MWHR could continue serving as a haven for mustangs and wild horses for years to come.

What makes closing a deal like this one unique?

For starters, you must verify that the property is zoned appropriately for agricultural or equestrian use before acquiring land for a horse or animal rescue. Zoning laws regulate how land can be used and may impose restrictions on the types of activities permissible on the property. A commercial title company like ours can help you engage with local zoning boards or planning commissions to understand any limitations or required permits. Equine properties also require the construction of fencing, shelter, pasture space, barns, etc. By reviewing a thorough land title survey, our team can help you understand the limitations of your property early on in the process so that you don’t have to deal with boundary disputes later down the road.

To learn more about the Mustang and Wild Horse Rescue of Georgia or to donate, visit www.mwhr.com. To work with Calloway Title on your next commercial real deal, visit www.titlelaw.com.

The commercial real estate market ebbs and flows with the world around us. Remote and hybrid work has led to lower demand for office space. However, demand for commercial retail space has increased in Atlanta and other cities across the United States. After two years of pandemic restrictions, consumers are ready to shop until they drop. Global companies like Google and Microsoft are drawn to these growing cities, but there is an opportunity for smaller, new-to-market businesses to thrive in these environments, as well.

At Calloway Title & Escrow we understand that purchasing any commercial space is a big financial commitment and comes with risks. That’s why it’s crucial to ensure that your chosen location has growth potential and is compatible with your business.

Here are three factors to consider before purchasing commercial retail space in a growing city.

Lifestyle

It’s important to consider how people in a location purchase and consume their goods. Are they eating out, or do they prefer to order in? Do they want to go to the store to shop or shop and order online? Ask these questions, and consider the capabilities of your business. Following the pandemic, consumers in cities like Atlanta desire more in-person shopping and dining experiences, increasing demand for retail. That consumer demand correlates to the rise in demand for commercial space.

Cost of Living

Rent and mortgage prices are rising, and more people are looking for places to live outside their current city. According to an analysis of Redfin searches, the number one motivator when choosing a new place to live is affordability. The study shows that most people are searching in other metropolitan areas. Buyers and renters are likely attracted to Atlanta for its low cost of living compared to other major markets. The larger the population, the larger the pool of potential customers for your retail business.

Access to Airports

Unless your materials and products are locally sourced and sold, you will need to consider the transport of your goods in and out of the area you choose to do business. In Atlanta, commercial retailers have access to one of the country’s largest airports.

For retailers looking to take advantage of growing cities such as Atlanta, you’ll need to consider these factors. Identifying these factors and entering the market early is key to earning the biggest return on investment. Calloway Title is your commercial title expert in Atlanta and is here to help close the deal on your complex commercial deals. Visit www.titlelaw.com to learn more.

The commercial office sector is currently facing challenges, but there may be a light at the end of the tunnel. One project Calloway Title recently closed on at 201 E Main St, Murfreesboro, TN, serves as proof. Despite U.S. office values dropping to 25% below their 2022 peak over the last two years, industry experts see early signs of a turnaround. They believe today’s bear market could present a unique investment opportunity where commercial real estate investors can purchase high-quality office space at a much lower rate.

With doubts surrounding the office sectors’ recovery, Barry DiRaimondo, Co-Founder and CEO of SteelWave, says, “You can convince yourself that it’s going to take ten years or longer to absorb all the vacant space. Now, historically, that never is what happens.”

The market moves in cycles. Right now, the office sector is at the bottom. Still, in this article, DiRaimondo and other professionals agree a “hockey stick” recovery, where the market rebounds from its current low point, is likely on its way.

Return-to-Office Policies

This theory is supported by the increase in back-to-office mandates happening nationwide. It was widely believed that the post-pandemic era would see a permanent shift to remote work. Yet, recent findings suggest otherwise. According to a study by B2B Reviews, 90% of companies plan to implement return-to-office policies by the end of 2024, in either a full-time or hybrid capacity. Hybrid work situations won’t affect the need for office spaces. This article explains, “If you’re required to work three days a week or four days a week, you still need the same amount of office space because people are still coming into the space.”

Opportunities for Investment

Increasing demand for space and solidified return-to-office policies aren’t the only factors making now an interesting time to invest. Other factors include:

• Low Entry Prices: The current bear market offers entry points at significantly discounted rates, attracting both seasoned investors and newcomers. “After years of tabling some deals or sticking to the sidelines, a growing pool of private buyers, owner-users, local firms and smaller asset managers are scooping up properties at a fraction of their previously traded prices,” says this CoStar article. Smaller investors have access to properties that were once out of reach, while large firms seek properties with premium features and amenities to attract employees.
• Leasing Momentum: CoStar also explains, “Developers and landlords are reporting an uptick in tours and leases that, in some cases, echo activity seen before the pandemic.” In addition, companies like Kroger and IBM have also shown a willingness to commit to long-term leases, providing stability to landlords. “The turnaround in leasing follows several years of companies trying to figure out where and how employees want to work — and how much space they need to accommodate those shifts.”[1] [2] 
• Market-to-Market Variability: The recovery is nuanced and varies by region. For instance, some regions in Tennessee outperform others due to factors like tech sector growth and increased job opportunities.

Calloway Title Closes Tennessee Office Building

Our team’s recent closure of a major deal at 201 E Main St, Murfreesboro, TN, is a prime example of capitalizing on current market conditions. We completed the title work and helped close the entirety of the Class B office building. With over 60,000 square feet and multiple tenants, it is strategically located near public transportation and boasts ample parking, making it an attractive proposition for tenants and investors.

Calloway Title is headquartered in Georgia, but top developers and investors nationwide trust us to close deals like this one. Learn more about the office building at 201 E Main St. here. If it’s the right time to invest or develop office space in your local market, we’d love to help you navigate the complexities of this sector and close the deal. Visit www.titlelaw.com to work with us!

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From our first t-ball game to our football state final in high school, youth sports make up some of our fondest memories. Now that we’re all grown up, we want the kids in our communities to have the same experience. The increasing demand for state-of-the-art facilities to support youth and amateur sports presents promising opportunities for investors to capitalize on the industry’s momentum and support their communities in big ways, like one deal our Calloway Title team recently helped close.

LakePoint Sports: A Record-Setting Travel and Sports Destination

Based in the greater Atlanta area, the 1,300-acre LakePoint Sports campus is a premier destination for athletic and corporate events. It serves athletes in more than 30 sports year-round, including baseball, basketball, volleyball, soccer, lacrosse, football, gymnastics and cheer. With five million square feet of existing amenities and big plans for the future, including the addition of on-site hotels, restaurants, retail, ziplines, water parks and more, LakePoint Sports is currently the largest sports vacation community in the world, according to the World Record Academy. Its 16 major league baseball fields, 14 soccer/lacrosse fields, 15 fast-pitch softball and junior baseball fields, 20-acre wake park, two Miracle League fields, and 196,000-square-foot indoor facility also make it the largest installation of synthetic sports surfacing in the world.

A commercial real estate project of this size is no easy feat, and when it came to the title search, there was a lot of land to cover. Our team at Calloway Title worked diligently to ensure the property was free and clear of any title defects that could prevent or delay development. We were thrilled to help close this deal to support the health and development of Atlanta youth and our greater community.

Positive Impacts of The Youth Sports Industry

There are plenty of reasons to love youth sports. Not only do they foster teamwork, discipline and a healthy lifestyle among young athletes, but they are also drivers of economic development. Youth sports complexes can draw in millions of local and out-of-state visitors annually. According to this article, a successful facility can lead to growth opportunities in the adjacent hospitality, real estate, dining and retail sectors, which can benefit local property values and regional economic impact. “This sector’s direct spending impact was valued at $39.7 billion in 2021 alone,” according to SportsETA’s 2021 industry report. Wintergreen Research Inc. predicted the youth sports market will grow at a compound annual growth rate of 8.9% until 2028.

Investing in Youth Sports: Key Considerations

Is an investment in the youth sports industry right for you? “When invested wisely and strategically, investments in the future of youth sports could provide not just financial returns but also the enrichment of communities and the nurturing of young talent,” according to this article. Here are a few things to consider before entering into this space:

Research and Due Diligence

Not every youth sports center is successful; like any investment, it’s important to research before getting involved. Understanding market trends, potential returns and the specific needs of sports communities with an in-depth feasibility study is crucial. Evaluating existing facilities and identifying gaps can help investors make informed decisions. It also helps to understand failures and why some communities failed. One cautionary tale exists with Legacy Park in Mesa, Arizona, which you can read about here.

Local Competition and Customer Service

Because the youth sports industry is booming, visitors have options, meaning investors have competition. So, to attract visitors, facilities need to be top-notch. Creating a welcoming and supportive environment for athletes and their families is essential for building a loyal customer base. Thoughtful partnerships and ensuring facility operators and managers exceed guest and customer expectations can help with this. Focusing on innovative technologies can, too. “This includes advanced systems like sports lighting, as well as on-field innovations such as smart backstops and robotic umpires,” states this article.

Shifts in Participation

Another consideration is shifts in youth sports participation, which can vary seasonally and regionally. Investors need to consider these fluctuations when planning their operations. Developing strategies to attract visitors year-round, such as offering diverse sports or events and off-season deals like Pickle and Social in Gwinnett County, Atlanta, can help mitigate the impact of seasonal changes. Venues can also consider building multipurpose playing surfaces.

Learn more about LakePoint Sports here, and remember that Calloway Title can handle your complex deals in any state. Visit www.titlelaw.com to work with us!