As would be expected, because of the uncertainty in the business climate, our brokers are regularly asked what is happening in the commercial real estate market, and what to expect going forward. Never have we wished so hard for a crystal ball!

Relocating your business is a complicated process that requires planning, organization and diligence. At The Boulos Company we strive to make those transitions for our clients as smooth as possible. We have created this guide to help you with your move.

  I have never been one to work from home.  I like going to the office every morning.  I like the routine of it.  My desk, computer, my files, my fast printer that can scan more than one page at a time, but most of all I enjoy being with all of my co-workers, clients, and OTHER PEOPLE.  I realize … Continue reading Our Work Environment: Home vs. Not Home

As we drop into the unknown of 2020, will the capital markets continue an impressive ten-year run, or will that unending flow of investor capital into commercial real estate (CRE) suddenly be turned off at the spigot? It is widely accepted that economic expansions end because of investor tolerance for risk, both real and perceived. Indicators of risk include growth … Continue reading 2020 Capital Markets Outlook

For the first time in ten years, the Greater Portland office market vacancy rate increased after steadily declining year after year.  The Boulos Company conducted its annual survey of over 12 million square feet in almost 350 Class A and Class B office buildings across seven submarkets. The 2019 overall vacancy rate, including sublease space, increased to 6.66%. While still … Continue reading Office Market Overview

Portland’s Eastern waterfront area has been the subject of much press recently, and deservedly so. The neighborhood has undergone a tremendous amount of growth in a short period. This part of Portland has seen a boom of hotels, residential development, and office buildings housing some of Maine’s largest companies. The southwest corner of downtown, where the Old Port and West … Continue reading Neighborhood Spotlight: Western Commercial Street, Portland

Based on the most widely accepted age range of the elusive millennial, the oldest of the generation are now in their mid-30’s. These avocado-loving hipsters are leaving behind their studio apartments in cobblestoned downtowns and trading up for something grassier and more family-friendly. With their shift away from city living comes increased popularity in all things suburban, including the office market. … Continue reading Business in the Burbs

Over the last decade, Portland has become one of the premier food cities in the United States. Tourists and food connoisseurs from all around the country are traveling to Portland for its distinguished restaurants. The recent explosion in the food scene has triggered a call for new restaurants that emulate eateries such as Eventide Oyster Company or Empire. Trendy, vibrant … Continue reading Portland’s Restaurant Flux

On June 26th, 2019, State of Maine Governor Janet Mills made her clean energy and climate leadership goals clear by signing three major bills associated with renewable energy and greenhouse gas emissions. Related bills have been popular amongst Legislature in recent years but did not become law due to vetoes from Former Governor LePage. Following Governor Mills’ inauguration, many national … Continue reading Maine Solar Rush

The phrase “slap a coat of paint on it” is taking on a whole new meaning as property owners and public officials nationwide seek innovative ways of transforming their buildings and communities. Street Art, a balance of murals and stylish graffiti, is being used to give buildings a new identity while revitalizing neighborhoods into warm energized communities. Graffiti, which has … Continue reading Slap a Coat of Paint on It

In January of 2019, we published our annual Market Outlook, which gives an overview of Maine’s Commercial Real Estate Market with an emphasis on the Office sector. One of the most watched indicators of the strength of the office market is the vacancy rate in Downtown Portland’s Class A buildings. 25 buildings comprise the 2 million square feet in this … Continue reading Downtown Portland Mid-Year Class A Update

The consumer retail sector continues to strategize around how to reposition physical stores to offset the growing demand of online shoppers. Many experts suggest that retailers have figured it out—companies understand the necessary steps to create a profitable retail experience. This strategy, however, could just be delaying the inevitable. Pop up shops and smaller stores may present a way to … Continue reading The Evolution of Retail Ownership