The Window Is Open — And It Won't Stay Open Forever
After years of interest rate uncertainty that chilled commercial real estate transactions across the country, 2026 brings a dramatically different environment. Rates have stabilized, lending has returned to normal functioning, and institutional capital that sat on the sidelines is now actively deploying into income-producing commercial properties — particularly in secondary markets like West Michigan.
Cap rate compression in gateway cities like Chicago, New York, and Los Angeles has pushed buyers to look at markets like Grand Rapids, Kalamazoo, and Lansing with fresh eyes. Properties that might have received two or three offers two years ago are now seeing five, six, or more qualified buyers. That competition drives prices — and creates extraordinary outcomes for sellers who are positioned to move.
We are currently in one of the most favorable environments for commercial property sellers we have seen in over a decade. But market cycles turn. The buyers who are actively deploying capital today will not be in the same position indefinitely. If you have been considering a sale, now is the time to have a conversation.
The 1031 Exchange Advantage
One of the most powerful tools available to commercial property sellers is Section 1031 of the Internal Revenue Code — a provision that allows you to defer capital gains taxes on the sale of an investment property by reinvesting the proceeds into a "like-kind" replacement property.
Defer Capital Gains
Under a properly structured 1031 exchange, federal and state capital gains taxes on your property sale are deferred — potentially indefinitely — as long as you reinvest in a qualifying replacement property.
The Timeline
You have 45 days from closing to identify replacement properties, and 180 days to complete the purchase. Our team begins the replacement property search in parallel with the sale process — so you're never scrambling at the deadline.
Upgrade Your Portfolio
Many of our clients use a 1031 exchange not just to defer taxes, but to trade up to a larger, higher-quality asset that generates more income with less management intensity. We can locate suitable replacement properties through our network.
Decades of Investment Across Every Market Cycle
Our team has operated through bull markets, financial crises, rate spikes, and recoveries. That experience isn't just a resume line — it's the foundation of the advice we give our clients. We know the difference between a market that rewards patience and one that rewards action. Right now, action is rewarded.
Bill Bussey's background spans development, SEC registered real estate investment funds, individual investment transactions, leasing, and brokerage. Katie Lovley brings investment analysis expertise and recent large-transaction experience. Together, we offer clients a perspective that goes far beyond simple deal brokerage.
A Deep Pool of Qualified Capital
The buyers we represent include institutional investors and REIT capital deploying into Midwest secondary markets, private equity groups pursuing yield in an environment where gateway city cap rates have compressed, family offices seeking stable, income-producing assets for multi-generational wealth, and individual accredited investors looking for 1031 exchange replacements and portfolio additions. These are buyers with capital committed, underwriting complete, and the ability to close quickly on the right asset.
Let’s Talk About Your Property
A 30-minute confidential conversation could change what you think your property is worth. No obligation, no pressure.