Fort Lauderdale’s Office Market Sees Major Acquisition

Las Olas Centre in Fort Lauderdale

News Summary

Bradford Allen Investment Advisors has acquired the Las Olas Centre I & II for $208 million, marking the largest office sale in Fort Lauderdale in nearly ten years. The complex features 470,810 square feet of office and retail space and is expected to undergo a $25 million renovation. This acquisition underscores the strength of Fort Lauderdale’s office market, showcasing better vacancy rates and rent growth than the national average. The deal signifies a positive trend for commercial real estate in the area as demand for office space remains robust.

Fort Lauderdale’s Office Market Blossoms with Major Acquisition

Exciting news is coming out of Fort Lauderdale! The bustling heart of downtown has welcomed a major player in the office real estate scene, as Bradford Allen Investment Advisors has officially acquired the Las Olas Centre I & II for a whopping $208 million. Yes, you read that right! This marks a milestone as the first office sale over $200 million in this charming city in nearly ten years!

A Peek Inside the Las Olas Centre

Now, let’s talk about what makes this office complex special. The Las Olas Centre encompasses a massive 470,810 square feet of both office and retail space, making it a prime location for business and leisure. It also boasts 1,344 parking spaces, ensuring visitors and employees have plenty of room to park. Nestled right at 350 and 450 E. Las Olas Blvd, this location couldn’t be more ideal for companies wanting to be at the center of the action!

Ownership Journey

Interestingly, Las Olas Centre I & II has a rich history. The complex was last traded in 2014 for $204 million. After an 11-year ownership under RAR2 – Las Olas Centre LLC, which falls under the umbrella of Chicago-based RREET Property Trust and the DWS Group, it was time for a new chapter. While the property’s value only saw a modest increase during that time, the latest sale has certainly put it back in the spotlight.

Plans for a Revamp

Bradford Allen isn’t just stopping at the purchase; they’re gearing up to invest an additional $25 million into renovations. These upgrades will cover everything from a stylish new lobby to enhanced conference rooms, a modern fitness center, and even refreshed outdoor spaces. All these improvements aim to attract new tenants and give current occupants a fresh and appealing environment.

Location, Location, Location!

What truly makes this acquisition noteworthy is its prime location. The downtown area of Fort Lauderdale is recognized as the most desirable office location, perfect for companies looking to establish themselves in a vibrant and growing city. Bradford Allen is thrilled, as this deal marks their inaugural investment in the sunny shores of South Florida!

A Thriving Office Market

Adding to the excitement, Fort Lauderdale’s office market seems to be faring quite well, showing better vacancy rates and rent growth than the national average, despite some competition from Miami and West Palm Beach. It appears that the local economy is staying robust, especially as asking rents and occupancy rates remain healthy compared to the overall trends during the pandemic.

More Big Deals on the Horizon

This acquisition comes at a time when Fort Lauderdale is seeing significant commercial activity. In fact, just recently, there was another major office investment made with a partnership acquiring the Bank of America Plaza at Las Olas City Centre for over $220 million. The Bank of America Plaza offers 410,561 square feet of space and is a notable 94% leased, proving that demand for office space in this area is high.

A Bright Future Ahead

With the Las Olas Centre I & II being the largest office sale in Broward County in the past decade, it sure does seem like an exciting time for the region’s commercial real estate market. Both this purchase and the recent investment in the Bank of America Plaza indicate a positive trend in property value appreciation and demand, highlighting Fort Lauderdale as a vital hub for business activity and growth.

As Bradford Allen Investment Advisors embarks on this journey to enhance Las Olas Centre, office-goers in Fort Lauderdale can look forward to an updated, modern workspace, transforming the downtown skyline and the way business is done in this vibrant city.