The Phoenix office market continued to feel the effects of a sluggish and wavering economy, according to Cassidy Turley BRE Commercial’s 3Q 2010 office market trends report released today.
Economic indicators remain mixed causing uncertainty as to whether our economy is headed into a “double dip” recession or a period of slow growth. The best word to describe market conditions during the third quarter is flat. Net absorption was negative for the second time this year and the overall vacancy rate increased 30 basis points to finish at an all-time high of 27.9%.
Tempe/South Chandler and 44th Street Corridor posted the largest gains in net absorption; collectively they gained more than 257,590 SF in the third quarter. Downtown North and Airport Area were the two submarkets with the largest declines in occupancy; they collectively lost 221,927 SF during the third quarter. The majority of leasing activity has been in space that is an upgrade to the tenant’s prior location, otherwise known as “flight to quality.”
This has been a trend for several quarters, as nearly all positive absorption, both the quarter and year-to-date, have come from either Class A buildings or new construction. Class A average asking rates continue
to decline as landlords compete for tenants by offering heavy concessions and discounted rates. Class A rental rates dropped nearly 2 percent in the third quarter to finish at $25.07.
With the extreme over-supply of space, overall asking rental rates will continue to soften but at a slower pace and should reach bottom within the next 12 months. Office market leasing is likely to remain flat through 2010 and improve gradually into 2011 as businesses start to add jobs and tenants take advantage of reduced rates. Landlords that have weathered the recession, remained financially strong and adjusted to current market conditions should start to see some relief as tenant demand gradually improves.
With large blocks of premium office space available, lower rental rates, a high quality of life, affordable housing and great weather, Metro Phoenix is positioned to attract companies looking to relocate or add to their current operations. These factors should improve leasing and owner occupant demand bringing some relief to the office sector.
