Commercial Real Estate Pros Are Almost All Bullish on 2026
If you’ve been feeling a subtle but undeniable shift in the commercial real estate landscape heading into 2026, you’re right in sync with the experts. According to the new Avison Young Canadian Outlook report, an astonishing 97% of CRE professionals believe market activity will rise or remain stable next year.
That level of positivity isn’t common—and it certainly isn’t random. It reflects a major leap from mid‑2025, when only 45% predicted increased activity. Now, confidence is snowballing as professionals align around a shared expectation: the comeback is real.
A Market Primed for a Surge
Among the nearly 200 CRE professionals surveyed, 64% expect activity to increase in 2026, while another 33% foresee stability. That leaves only a tiny slice predicting a downturn—arguably the boldest forecasters in the room.
Mark Fieder, Principal and President of Avison Young Canada, described the mood simply but powerfully: “Optimism is in the air.” With 2025 investment volumes matching the previous year and Q3 showing the strongest sales since 2022, the industry is gaining unmistakable traction.
Quick Pulse Check
How CRE experts feel about 2026:
64% anticipate increased activity
33% expect stable performance
A very small minority anticipate decline
What’s Driving This Optimism?
Avison Young identifies several momentum‑boosting factors:
Potential Bank of Canada rate cuts refreshing investor enthusiasm
Strong employment and manageable inflation pressures
Persistent demand in medical, grocery, and wellness‑focused retail
With the exception of Vancouver—which is expected to hold steady—most of Canada’s major markets are positioned for increased activity.
But Not Every Cloud Has a Silver Lining
U.S. tariff policies remain one of the largest question marks. Declining exports in machinery, automotive, and related industries could create friction for various regional economies in Canada, moderating otherwise promising gains.
Multifamily outlooks remain cautiously positive, though buyer‑seller pricing gaps continue to pinch transaction volume. Industrial, on the other hand, remains a dependable star performer—poised to carry its strength straight into 2026.
Why This Matters for Today’s Real Estate Professionals
Whether you’re an investor, a broker, or a professional gearing up to advance your licensing or skillset, this rising optimism marks a significant turning point. Markets are shifting—and staying ahead requires staying sharp.
Professionals across real estate, mortgage, insurance, finance, and other licensed fields continue to rely on Cameron Academy for flexible, modern, and industry‑ready education to meet the moment.
Getting licensed or staying ahead in your career can be a journey—but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Grab your favorite coffee or tea, take a moment to relax, and browse through our articles. Whether you’re just starting out or renewing your expertise, we’ve got tips, insights, and advice to keep you moving forward. Here’s to your success—one sip and one step at a time!
AI-powered sentiment analysis is giving real estate investors a major edge by scanning millions of online conversations to detect market shifts long before traditional data responds. From predicting neighborhood momentum to spotting declining tenant satisfaction, this technology captures real-time public emotion across office, retail, and multifamily sectors. As trends in sentiment become as important as demographics and NOI, professionals who understand these tools will stay ahead of the next market move.
Florida lawmakers are racing toward a high-stakes finish to the legislative session as a sweeping property tax overhaul triggers fierce debate. The House is pushing to eliminate most non-school property taxes on primary homes, while the Senate urges caution and Gov. Ron DeSantis floats even bigger changes. With Democrats warning of budget crises and only weeks left to strike a deal, the future of Florida’s tax structure—and its real estate market—hangs in the balance.
Florida homeowners are getting rare financial relief as the emergency insurance assessment—added after multiple insurers collapsed post‑Hurricane Ian—has been paid off two years early. The early payoff wipes out the charge of about $30 per household per year and delivers more than $650 million in statewide savings. With the insurance market stabilizing faster than expected, real estate and insurance professionals can expect a slightly more favorable environment for buyers and policyholders alike.
After years of pandemic‑driven disruption, rising vacancies, and interest‑rate volatility, confidence is finally returning to commercial real estate. Major analysts report that leasing activity is accelerating, investor appetite is rising, and high‑quality properties are leading the rebound. With investment volumes expected to jump and vacancies beginning to fall, 2026 is shaping up to be the long‑awaited turning point for the industry.
Sioux Falls enters 2026 with a commercial real estate market outperforming nearly every regional competitor. Fueled by strong fundamentals, major private investment, and confidence across all sectors, the city is positioned for what experts call “white‑hot economic activity.” From booming land sales and rising retail absorption to stabilizing office and industrial sectors, the metro’s momentum is undeniable—making it a prime environment for real estate professionals and investors looking for opportunity.
Florida lawmakers have advanced HB 767, a major insurance transparency bill that would create a statewide online rate database, boost consumer education, and prevent insurers from using land value to inflate premiums. The proposal promises clearer insurance data and stronger accountability—bringing much‑needed relief and insight to homeowners, real estate agents, mortgage professionals, and insurance producers across the state.
