Seven GVA Advantis brokers left the troubled firm last week and are starting an affiliate of a new firm. Leading the pack is Charles Polk, who was GVA’s all-time top-producing broker.
Commercial Real Estate
Area apartment vacancy rising
Real estate researcher Reis Inc. reported last week that the national apartment vacancy rate reached 7.5 percent in the second quarter; the rate for Richmond was higher at 8.1 percent. But Patrick McCloud, president of the Central Virginia Apartment Association, said despite the record high vacancy levels Richmond is holding up well and that the rental market is showing signs of improvement.
Rainwater rules cast cloud over development
Developers are lining up in opposition to new storm water requirements they say will dramatically increase the cost of development in the commonwealth, and may even scare off the sort of large companies that could bring thousands of new jobs.
GVA Advantis closing some Virginia offices
The Richmond office of the commercial brokerage firm GVA Advantis apparently has escaped the ax. On Monday the company said it will close offices in Newport News and Northern Virginia. And unlike at the Norfolk office, where brokers have left for other firms, GVA’s Richmond brokers are staying put — for now.
Just around the corner
Development of the next retail complex at Short Pump is back on schedule.
“Don’t even think about changing the locks” — landlord
Board Paradise is locked today and there is a sign out front possibly warning the store’s owners not to have the locks change.
More Manchester mojo
New Manchester Flats is Fountainhead’s latest project, located at Gordon Avenue and East Seventh Street.
When finished, it will represent a $35 million investment and add about 175 residential units to the area. The development is partly financed by historical tax credits, as well as New Market tax credits (for development in low-income areas).
Wrecking ball takes aim at former hotel
One of Richmond’s first modernist hotels might soon be demolished to make way for a mixed-use center, including residences for adults with developmental disabilities.
VCU retail struggles to take hold on Broad
The rapid growth of VCU attracted a number of new businesses hoping to cash in on the expanding student body. But apparently students are a fickle bunch: Several businesses around campus have shuttered their doors in recent months, including Cuppa Tea and Common Groundz.
Tougher runoff standards would slow growth
The state is seeking to reduce the amount of phosphorous runoff allowed by new developments, a measure that could limit the scope of new construction projects if it becomes law.