Three Years In, Partner Valuation Advisors Rockets to National Prominence as Valuation Powerhouse

Chicago, IL - In just three years, Partner Valuation Advisors (Partner), a national commercial real estate valuation and advisory firm headquartered in Chicago, has emerged as one of the most influential players in the national CRE landscape. Presently, Partner Valuation Advisors has 110 professionals located in more than 40 markets nationally. Partner performs valuations of the Core 4 property types of office, retail, industrial, and multifamily and offers specialty practices in affordable housing, manufactured housing (MHC), seniors housing, self-storage, hotels, and healthcare among others.

The firm completed over 10,000 valuations in 2024, representing a staggering $225 billion in property value—more than double its 2023 volume of 4,465 valuations and $113 billion, and is on its way to surpassing those 2024 numbers in 2025. That growth has earned Partner Valuation Advisors the distinction of being a top 10 valuation firm in the United States.

“We’re often the first call in a transaction,” said Eric Enloe, MAI, CRE, FRICS, co-founder and Senior Managing Director. “That early involvement gives us a front-row seat to what’s happening in the market before it hits the headlines.”

Enloe, a veteran of JLL, co-founded the firm in 2022 with Brandon Nunnink, CFA also formerly of JLL, with a shared vision: to build a valuation firm that could deliver faster, more defensible, and data-driven insights in a market where certainty is in short supply.

Unlike traditional brokerages or capital markets firms, Partner Valuation Advisors focuses exclusively on valuation and advisory services. That singular focus has helped it become an independent authority for institutional investors, lenders, and developers navigating complex deals.

“We’re not trying to sell or finance the asset, we’re here to value it with precision and integrity,” said Nunnink. “That independence is a big reason clients trust us, but we also benefit from being part of the larger Partner family companies that performs some level of diligence on 1 in every 4 commercial real estate transactions in America.”

Clients consistently turn to Partner Valuation Advisors when timing is critical, and precision is non-negotiable, especially in competitive sale environments. They rely on valuations that stand up to the toughest scrutiny, whether from investment committees, regulators, or rating agencies. And with a front-row seat to market activity, Partner delivers insights ahead of the curve, often before trends make headlines. The firm’s proprietary processes and national platform allow it to deliver efficiently across asset types and geographies, while maintaining a high-touch, relationship-driven approach.

“We’re not just delivering a number, we’re delivering execution confidence,” said Enloe. “Our clients know they can rely on us to get it right the first time.”

The firm’s data and insights are increasingly being used not just to support transactions, but to forecast trends and guide strategy across the CRE ecosystem. From institutional investors repositioning portfolios to lenders underwriting complex assets, Partner’s work is helping clients make smarter, faster, and more defensible decisions.

In a CRE market defined by volatile bond yields, shifting asset values, and capital constraints, a modern valuation approach has become more than a necessary compliance step, it’s a strategic advantage.

“We’re seeing clients lean on us earlier and more often throughout their equity and debt investment cycles,” said Nunnink. “They want to know what’s real, what’s risky, and where the values of their assets within the market are headed.”

That demand has fueled Partner’s rapid growth, and its reputation as a barometer for broader market activity. The firm’s client engagements often precede major transaction volume, giving it a unique role as a leading indicator for the industry.

Looking ahead, Partner Valuation Advisors is doubling down on its commitment to technology, analytics, and talent, evidenced by the recent additions of industry veterans Michael Robinson, MRICS, who supports Miami and New York, and James Graber, MAI, based in Dallas and covering the South Central Region. These strategic hires are part of a broader effort to scale the firm’s impact.

At the same time, Partner is actively exploring new tools to enhance data transparency, streamline reporting, and deliver even more actionable insights to clients. “We’re just getting started,” said Nunnink. “Our goal is to be the most trusted name in CRE valuation in the U.S."

For clients navigating today’s CRE landscape, Partner Valuation Advisors offers more than just a valuation, it offers clarity, confidence, and a competitive edge in the valuation process. And in a market where execution is key, that’s a value proposition that’s hard to ignore.

About Partner Valuation Advisors

Partner Valuation Advisors, LLC is a national commercial real estate valuation advisory firm that ranks as a top 10 appraisal firm. Partner Valuation Advisors has more than 100 valuation professionals nationally. Partner Valuation Advisors is led by Brandon Nunnink, CFA, and Eric L. Enloe, MAI, CRE, FRICS. Team members hold appraisal licenses in all 50 states and the firm has offices in Austin, Baltimore, Boise, Boston, Buffalo, Charlotte, Chicago, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Dallas, Denver, Gainesville, Grand Rapids, Houston, Indianapolis, Jacksonville, Kansas City, Knoxville, Los Angeles, Miami, Milwaukee, Mobile, Naples, New York, Northern New Jersey, Oklahoma City, Philadelphia, Phoenix, Portland, Raleigh, San Diego, Seattle, St. George, St. Louis, Tulsa, and Washington, D.C. Partner Valuation Advisors performs commercial real estate valuations nationally for investors, lenders, and real estate occupiers and is an affiliate company of Partner Engineering and Science, Inc. Please visit us online at www.PartnerVal.com.

Partner Valuation Advisors Welcome Vytas Norusis as Executive Vice President in Chicago

Industry Veteran to Lead National IOS Practice Group, Expanding Partner’s Institutional Expertise

Chicago, IL – October 1, 2025 – Partner Valuation Advisors is proud to announce the addition of Vytas Norusis, MAI, as Executive Vice President, based in Chicago. With over a decade of experience in industrial valuation and a deep specialization in the Industrial Outdoor Storage (IOS) sector, Norusis brings unmatched expertise and institutional credibility to Partner’s growing national platform.

In his new role, Norusis will serve as the National Lead for Partner’s IOS Practice Group, guiding strategy and execution across markets.

Norusis brings a track record of appraising over $10 billion in industrial assets and has overseen the valuation of 10+ national IOS portfolios in the past year alone—totaling more than 200 assets across the country. His thought leadership in the IOS space has helped shape market understanding of this emerging asset class.

“Vytas is one of the most experienced IOS valuation professionals in the country,” said Joe Miller, MAI, MRICS, Managing Director at Partner Valuation Advisors. “His track record, relationships, and insights will be instrumental as we launch our dedicated IOS practice group to serve institutional clients nationwide.”

Norusis has appraised some of the earliest acquisitions by major IOS operators dating back to 2016 and has advised many of the largest ownership groups and institutions active in the space.

“I’ve been immersed in the IOS sector for nearly a decade,” said Norusis. “Partner’s platform, speed, and independence make it the ideal place to build a best-in-class IOS valuation practice.”

With the launch of our dedicated IOS Practice Group, Partner Valuation Advisors reaffirms its commitment to delivering specialized, data-driven valuation services tailored to the needs of institutional clients. We invite you to connect with our team to learn how our expertise can support your next transaction.

About Partner Valuation Advisors

Partner Valuation Advisors, LLC is a national commercial real estate valuation advisory firm that ranks as a top 10 appraisal firm. Partner Valuation Advisors has more than 100 valuation professionals nationally. Partner Valuation Advisors is led by Brandon Nunnink, CFA, and Eric L. Enloe, MAI, CRE, FRICS. Team members hold appraisal licenses in all 50 states and the firm has offices in Austin, Baltimore, Boise, Boston, Buffalo, Charlotte, Chicago, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Dallas, Denver, Gainesville, Grand Rapids, Houston, Indianapolis, Jacksonville, Kansas City, Knoxville, Los Angeles, Miami, Milwaukee, Mobile, Naples, New York, Northern New Jersey, Oklahoma City, Philadelphia, Phoenix, Portland, Raleigh, San Diego, Seattle, St. George, St. Louis, Tulsa, and Washington, D.C. Partner Valuation Advisors performs commercial real estate valuations nationally for investors, lenders, and real estate occupiers and is an affiliate company of Partner Engineering and Science, Inc. Please visit us online at www.PartnerVal.com.

Hospitals Lead the Charge: Investor Confidence Grows in Healthcare Assets

By Erik Hill, MAI, CRE, CCIM, MRICS

As the broader commercial real estate market continues to navigate economic headwinds, the healthcare sector has quietly charted a course of resilience and growth. While other asset classes grapple with volatility, healthcare real estate has demonstrated a unique ability to adapt, driven by rising demand, strategic investor interest, and a shifting landscape of care delivery.

In the second quarter of 2025, one of the most notable trends in healthcare real estate was the continued decline in new construction volume. At the same time, absorption rates increased, pushing national occupancy averages above 92%. This dynamic created a tightening market, where existing facilities saw increased utilization and investor interest.

Hospitals and health systems, along with private investors, emerged as the dominant buyers in the sector during the first half of the year. In contrast, REIT activity was relatively muted—a departure from previous years when institutional capital played a more prominent role. This shift underscored a growing confidence among operators and private capital in the long-term viability of healthcare assets.

From a capital markets perspective, medical office cap rates expanded slightly in Q2 compared to Q1, rising by approximately 10 to 20 basis points. Hospital transaction volume outpaced its historical average, signaling strong investor appetite. Medical office transactions remained somewhat below their historical norms, but the sector showed signs of stabilization.

Interest rates continued to pose a challenge for securing capital, but sentiment shifted. More investors became comfortable operating in a higher-rate environment, recalibrating expectations and deal structures accordingly. Construction costs remain a significant barrier to new supply, with elevated expenses driving up rent rates and making new developments harder to justify.

Despite these challenges, signs of stability have emerged. The inpatient sector experienced steady growth, and behavioral health and substance use treatment facilities attracted increased interest. These specialized assets gained traction as demand for mental health services continued to rise, presenting new opportunities for investors and developers alike.

Looking ahead to the remainder of 2025, the industry is watching closely for continued Fed rate cuts. If rate cuts continue, such a move could unlock transaction volume across all healthcare property types, providing a much-needed boost to deal flow. Additionally, portfolio transactions are anticipated to gain momentum in the second half of the year, with rumors of one or two major deals having circulated among market participants.

In a year marked by uncertainty, healthcare real estate has proven to be a beacon of stability. For investors seeking durable income and long-term growth, the sector continues to offer compelling opportunities—particularly in areas aligned with evolving care models and demographic trends. As 2025 progresses, healthcare assets are positioned to lead the charge in redefining what resilience looks like in commercial real estate.

Looking forward, the healthcare real estate sector is poised to benefit from demographic shifts, evolving care models, and potential monetary policy adjustments. Investors should monitor developments in behavioral health, inpatient care, and portfolio transactions, as these areas are likely to shape the market trajectory through the end of 2025.

About Partner Valuation Advisors

Partner Valuation Advisors, LLC is a national commercial real estate valuation advisory firm that ranks as a top 10 appraisal firm. Partner Valuation Advisors has more than 100 valuation professionals nationally. Partner Valuation Advisors is led by Brandon Nunnink, CFA, and Eric L. Enloe, MAI, CRE, FRICS. Team members hold appraisal licenses in all 50 states and the firm has offices in Austin, Baltimore, Boise, Boston, Buffalo, Charlotte, Chicago, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Dallas, Denver, Gainesville, Grand Rapids, Houston, Indianapolis, Jacksonville, Kansas City, Knoxville, Los Angeles, Miami, Milwaukee, Mobile, Naples, New York, Northern New Jersey, Oklahoma City, Philadelphia, Phoenix, Portland, Raleigh, San Diego, Seattle, St. George, St. Louis, Tulsa, and Washington, D.C. Partner Valuation Advisors performs commercial real estate valuations nationally for investors, lenders, and real estate occupiers and is an affiliate company of Partner Engineering and Science, Inc. Please visit us online at www.PartnerVal.com.

Partner Valuation Advisors Taps Industry Leader James Graber to Drive South Central Growth

The appointment reinforces Partner’s commitment to institutional excellence and national leadership in CRE valuation

Dallas, TX – September 15, 2025 – Partner Valuation Advisors (Partner) is thrilled to welcome James Graber, MAI, as Senior Managing Director, based in Dallas and supporting the entire South Central Region. This strategic appointment represents a meaningful advancement in Partner’s ongoing expansion and dedication to industry excellence across the region and nationally.

James brings a wealth of experience in commercial real estate valuation, strategic growth, and operational leadership, having held senior roles at two national real estate services firms.

In his most recent role, he served as Chief Operating Officer, where he led the development of a divisional leadership structure, implemented management and technology systems, and expanded alternative asset valuation services—including seniors housing, cost segregation, automotive, manufactured housing, and right-of-way segments.

Prior to serving as COO, James held the position of Managing Director, leading the national Seniors Housing & Healthcare Valuation & Advisory Services group, building a nationally recognized seniors housing group and expanding its reach and capabilities. He was consistently recognized as a top producer, thought leader, and mentor, with published insights in leading industry outlets such as GlobeSt., Senior Housing News, and The Real Deal.

“As demonstrated by their involvement in one in every five transactions across the United States, the scope of the Partner’s reach and influence within the Commercial Real Estate sector is substantial,” said James Graber. “I’m excited to help scale our technology, grow our institutional teams, and bring top talent into a group that’s already making a strong industry impact. Attracting the best and brightest in the industry is a key priority for me, and I look forward to building a team that sets the standard for excellence.”

“James is a powerhouse addition to our leadership team,” said Eric Enloe, MAI, CRE, FRICS, Co-founder and Senior Managing Director. “Partner Valuation Advisors has become a top 10 valuation and advisory firm in just three years. James’ experience in both core and specialty asset classes, combined with his strategic vision and operational rigor, will accelerate our momentum across the region and nationally.”

He will serve as a driving force in growing Partner’s property type teams, including both core and specialty assets, leveraging his institutional expertise and strategic vision to every facet of the business.

Partner views his leadership, insight, and drive as instrumental tools that will help the firm continue to scale and innovate across the South Central Region and beyond.

About Partner Valuation Advisors

Partner Valuation Advisors, LLC is a national commercial real estate valuation advisory firm that ranks as a top 10 appraisal firm. Partner Valuation Advisors has more than 100 valuation professionals nationally. Partner Valuation Advisors is led by Brandon Nunnink, CFA, and Eric L. Enloe, MAI, CRE, FRICS. Team members hold appraisal licenses in all 50 states and the firm has offices in Austin, Baltimore, Boise, Boston, Buffalo, Charlotte, Chicago, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Dallas, Denver, Gainesville, Grand Rapids, Houston, Indianapolis, Jacksonville, Kansas City, Knoxville, Los Angeles, Miami, Milwaukee, Mobile, Naples, New York, Northern New Jersey, Oklahoma City, Philadelphia, Phoenix, Portland, Raleigh, San Diego, Seattle, St. George, St. Louis, Tulsa, and Washington, D.C. Partner Valuation Advisors performs commercial real estate valuations nationally for investors, lenders, and real estate occupiers and is an affiliate company of Partner Engineering and Science, Inc. Please visit us online at www.PartnerVal.com.

Michael A. Robinson’s Arrival Marks Major Milestone in Partner’s Growth

Industry Veteran Joins as Managing Director, Strengthening Firm’s East Coast Leadership

Miami, FL – August 25, 2025 – Partner Valuation Advisors (Partner) is proud to announce the addition of Michael Robinson, MRICS, as a Managing Director supporting the firm’s operations in both Florida and the New York metropolitan area. Widely regarded as one of the most experienced and respected professionals in the valuation industry, Robinson brings nearly 35 years of expertise to Partner’s rapidly expanding East Coast platform.

Throughout his distinguished career, Robinson has led the valuation of thousands of commercial properties across the country, including some of the most high-profile and complex assets in the marketplace. His notable assignments include the Seagram Building at 375 Park Avenue, the retail component of the Time Warner Center, 425 Park Avenue, and 432 Park Avenue, once the tallest residential tower in the Western Hemisphere. Robinson has a strong track record serving institutional investor and debt capital clients nationally.

“Michael is a true heavyweight in our industry,” said Eric Enloe, Co-founder and Senior Managing Director at Partner. “His reputation, technical acumen, and unwavering commitment to quality make him a game-changing addition to our team. This is a pivotal hire for Partner as we continue to elevate our presence in key markets and with our institutional client base.”

Robinson’s expertise spans virtually every major property type, from multifamily and office to industrial, hospitality, and development sites. He is particularly well known for his work in portfolio valuation, partial interest valuations, financial reporting, litigation support, and estate tax disputes. His client roster includes many of the world’s most sophisticated investors and lenders.

“Joining Partner is an exciting next chapter in my career,” said Robinson. “The firm’s national platform, deep bench of talent, and track record of trusted, high-caliber work align perfectly with how I’ve always approached valuation. I look forward to helping our clients navigate today’s complex real estate landscape with clarity and confidence.”

Robinson holds a Bachelor of Science in Finance from SUNY Albany and a Master of Fine Arts from the American Film Institute. He is a Certified General Appraiser in New York and New Jersey, and a member of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (MRICS).

About Partner Valuation Advisors

Partner Valuation Advisors, LLC is a national commercial real estate valuation advisory firm that ranks as a top 10 appraisal firm. Partner Valuation Advisors has more than 100 valuation professionals nationally. Partner Valuation Advisors is led by Brandon Nunnink, CFA, and Eric L. Enloe, MAI, CRE, FRICS. Team members hold appraisal licenses in all 50 states and the firm has offices in Austin, Baltimore, Boise, Boston, Buffalo, Charlotte, Chicago, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Dallas, Denver, Gainesville, Grand Rapids, Houston, Indianapolis, Jacksonville, Kansas City, Knoxville, Los Angeles, Miami, Milwaukee, Mobile, Naples, New York, Northern New Jersey, Oklahoma City, Philadelphia, Phoenix, Portland, Raleigh, San Diego, Seattle, St. George, St. Louis, Tulsa, and Washington, D.C. Partner Valuation Advisors performs commercial real estate valuations nationally for investors, lenders, and real estate occupiers and is an affiliate company of Partner Engineering and Science, Inc. Please visit us online at www.PartnerVal.com.

Keith Bolte, MAI, AI-GRS, Joins Partner Valuation Advisors as a Director in Charlotte Office

Keith’s Arrival Strengthens Partner’s Ability to Deliver Specialized, High-Impact Valuation Insights Across the Carolinas 

Charlotte, NC - August 20, 2025 – Partner Valuation Advisors LLC (Partner) is pleased to announce that Keith Bolte, MAI, AI-GRS, has joined the firm as a Director in the Charlotte, NC office. Since coming aboard, Keith has hit the ground running, bringing immediate value to clients across the Carolinas with his deep market knowledge.

Keith brings over 13 years of experience in real estate valuation, with a focus on industrial, office, retail, and multifamily properties. He also brings specialized expertise in cold storage facilities and industrial outdoor storage, asset types that are increasingly in demand across the Southeast.

“Keith’s impact was felt from day one,” said Eric Enloe, Senior Managing Director at Partner. “His ability to navigate complex assignments and deliver high-quality results has already made him a go-to resource for our clients in the region. We’re thrilled to have him on the team.”

Keith’s career has included valuation work for institutional investors, REITs, debt funds, insurance companies, and banks. He has led assignments for portfolios and single-asset engagements alike, including high-profile industrial parks, urban infill redevelopment sites, and mission-critical logistics facilities.

“Joining Partner has been a great move for me in my career,” said Keith. “The firm’s national platform, strong leadership, and commitment to excellence align perfectly with how I approach my work . I’m excited to continue growing our presence in the Carolinas and delivering meaningful insights to our clients.”

Keith holds the MAI and AI-GRS designations from the Appraisal Institute. He is a member of the North Carolina Appraisal Institute and previously held senior roles at national valuation firms.

About Partner Valuation Advisors

Partner Valuation Advisors, LLC is a national commercial real estate valuation advisory firm that ranks as a top 10 appraisal firm. Partner Valuation Advisors has more than 100 valuation professionals nationally. Partner Valuation Advisors is led by Brandon Nunnink, CFA, and Eric L. Enloe, MAI, CRE, FRICS. Team members hold appraisal licenses in all 50 states and the firm has offices in Austin, Baltimore, Boise, Boston, Buffalo, Charlotte, Chicago, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Dallas, Denver, Gainesville, Grand Rapids, Houston, Indianapolis, Jacksonville, Kansas City, Knoxville, Los Angeles, Miami, Milwaukee, Mobile, Naples, New York , Northern New Jersey, Oklahoma City, Philadelphia, Phoenix, Portland, Raleigh, San Diego, Seattle, St. George, St. Louis, Tulsa, and Washington, D.C. Partner Valuation Advisors performs commercial real estate valuations nationally for investors, lenders, and real estate occupiers and is an affiliate company of Partner Engineering and Science, Inc. Please visit us online at www.PartnerVal.com.

Office and Retail Find Their Footing

By Eric Enloe, MAI, CRE, FRICS, Joseph Miller, MAI, MRICS & James Burgwald, Senior Vice President, published on August 05, 2025 on GlobeSt.com

As we pass the midpoint of 2025, both office and retail real estate sectors are showing signs of stabilization—though each faces distinct pressures. Office recovery remains uneven, with financial and professional services driving leasing activity, while corporate users seize discounted assets in core markets. Retail continues to show resilience, especially in grocery-anchored and net lease properties, despite ongoing store closures and bankruptcies.

In this latest GlobeSt article, Senior Managing Director Eric Enloe, MAI, CRE, FRICS; Managing Director Joseph Miller, MAI, MRICS; and Senior Vice President James Burgwald explore how strategic acquisitions, tenant quality, and long-term fundamentals are shaping investor confidence across both the office and retail sectors.

Retail Market Update: Holding Steady Despite Store Closures

Low Vacancy, High Rent Spreads Continue to Support Retail Real Estate Investment

By Joseph Miller, MAI, MRICS, Managing Director for Partner Valuation Advisors, published on May 05, 2025, on GlobeSt.com

As we continue to move through 2025, which is likely to bring continued economic uncertainty, many investors will be watching to see how retail closure and backfills impact their overall portfolio. While there are retailers in the market looking for space, many are being more cautious than their predecessors when signing large, long-term leases. Many investors also believe that retail in the U.S. is under demolition and as we continue to see mall redevelopments take way and the available retail vacancies should continue to trend downwards, creating opportunities for retail owners.

In this latest GlobeSt article, Joseph Miller discusses how low vacancy will offset store closures, how grocery-anchored stores are still favored, and shares some trends to watch for the rest of 2025.

Putting the Active in Active Adult

By Brian Chandler, MAI, CRE, FRICS, Senior Managing Director for Partner Valuation Advisors, is cited in the February/March 2025 edition of Seniors Housing Business magazine.

As the senior housing industry's Active Adult subsector matures and gains popularity, communities cater to a younger demographic with amenities like fitness centers and travel programs.

"It's still in its infancy right now," Brian Chandler, Senior Managing Director for Partner Valuation Advisors, says of the subsector, "but it's starting to pick up from what we're seeing."

Chandler cites a number of amenities he's seen, including full-scale fitness centers, swimming pools, bistros, pickleball and bocce ball courts, and enhanced common areas among the attractions.

Read the full article to learn more about this popular subsector.

Optimism for the Hotel Investment Market

Despite Headwinds, Topline RevPAR Is Expected to Grow Through the Remainder of 2025 into 2026

By McKenna Luke, MAI, Managing Director, at Partner Valuation Advisors | Published here and GlobeSt.com, on March 13, 2025.

The hospitality sector is enjoying renewed interest from investors, with more deals in the pipeline, increased refinancing, and improved transaction volume. While the industry still faces challenges, optimism prevails for modest growth over the next year.

Anticipated Headwinds and Tailwinds to Hospitality Performance

The general consensus is that topline RevPAR will grow modestly through 2025 and into 2026, albeit likely below inflationary levels. On the positive side, demand for both business and leisure travel remains robust or continues to rebound depending on the segment. Leisure travel remains a cornerstone of the new demand mix, although somewhat bumpy in the last four years given the pent-up demand for leisure travel, deficit of international travelers to the US, and reduced spending within the economy and midscale chains due to inflationary pressures and economic uncertainty. A continued return-to-office movement and lower debt costs bode well for commercial travel to increase in both frequency and length of stay. Convention center bookings are strong for 2025/2026 and large-scale events such as the World Cup should drive demand.

However, expenses are expected to outpace RevPAR gains, as climate events continue to push insurance rates higher and changes to immigration and trade policy impact the cost of staffing and goods. Although revenues have met or exceeded 2019 levels, total profitability, especially when considering inflation adjustments, remains below the pre-pandemic figures for a number of assets.

While hotel operators and owners are embracing AI and other tech to increase efficiency, they remain focused on human connection with guests as a cornerstone of the industry. AI and innovation can reduce costs by improving scheduling and staffing efficiency; boost overall revenue through rate adjustments or F&B revenues; and free up hoteliers to interact more often with guests. A myriad of other solutions on the horizon will help increase profit and increase connection with guests. Operators who sit on the sidelines and ignore AI will not only decrease the guest experience but leave money on the table.

While the cost of debt remains elevated, tightening spreads and increased availability of debt have and will support transactions and refinancing. Many investors have begun to move off the sidelines and are no longer waiting to get deals done.

Historically, hospitality has not been the darling of real estate investment due to higher perceived risk and volatility. However, hospitality assets offer the ability to combat inflation with daily rate changes. This, along with hospitality’s current performance relative to other asset classes—especially office—has revigorated interest in the hospitality sector over the last two years. As an asset class, hospitality offers both yield and growth, especially given the industry’s desire to continue to innovate, drive revenue in creative ways, and embrace innovation for cost savings. Smart investors have realized there are portions of hospitality that are less risky, such as extended-stay, which has driven somewhat of a hybrid investor pool.

Hot Hospitality Segments 2025

As we look into 2025 and beyond, some specific sectors that are expected to perform well include extended-stay properties, outdoor experiential lodging, boutique and luxury hotels, and branded-residential.

Luxury demand remains strong and investor/lending interest in trophy assets or Single Asset Single Borrower (SASB) deals were a bright spot in 2024. Furthermore, the pricing ability within the luxury segment has combated rising costs, supporting an overall strong return.

The outdoor and experiential hospitality segment continues to grow since its relatively recent inception, with increasing institutional investment over the past 5-7 years. Prior to the pandemic, outdoor and experiential hospitality was limited to one-off “glamping” destination ranging from a tent without AC or heat to ultra-luxury, multi-bedroom units. The lack of definition and available data within the segment has resulted in a slow burn of investor interest and increased demand over recent years. Success in outdoor and experiential hospitality requires an understanding of past successes and failures within the segment, the ability to scale and retain a unique customer experience, and access to relevant data. Be sure to work with an experienced advisor in this unique space as data can be limited, seasonality and infrastructure requirements differ from typical hospitality, and barriers-to-entry can widely vary.

Extended-stay remains a targeted investment within the industry, especially given the higher profit margins and investor overlap with segments such as multifamily. Economy extended-stay has led the segment in terms of new developments and large portfolio transactions in recent years. Midscale extended-stay, a segment established within the last few years, is the newest path of growth and fits the niche between traditional extended-stay and economy extended-stay. While construction financing overall remains somewhat constrained, the lower construction costs and overall investment in both economy and midscale extended-stay should support continued pipeline growth. The only question is, will luxury, serviced, extended-stay be next? Or will this demand remain within the growing branded residence segment?

Hotel Construction Pipeline

Projections for new supply growth in 2025 should support stable or growing overall occupancy, while new supply may increase into 2026 or 2027. In the decade prior to COVID, 2010 to 2019, average supply growth was between 1 to 2%. Since the pandemic and even as recently as 2023 and 2024, supply growth was still down by half. New supply is expected to increase in 2025; however, projects under construction remains compressed outside of a few key markets such as Phoenix. Knowing the actual construction pipeline, which projects are financed, and which projects are almost shovel-ready will be an important distinction for investors in the near term. While construction costs and cost of debt can present hurdles, strong projects have been able to obtain financing in recent months.

Conclusions

With careful strategy, investors can capitalize on more transactions, new construction, and modest growth over the coming year. Seek out advisors with focused hospitality expertise who can support informed investment decisions with tools like feasibility and market studies. Consider engaging consultants with hotel experience to provide due diligence assessments and risk management services. Augmenting your strategy with a team of highly qualified experts will ensure you have the data you need to take advantage of the opportunities presented by this growing market.