NAIOP Colorado

NAIOP Colorado wins big at this year's Annual Chapter Merit Awards in Washington DC

Each year in February, the leadership of the Colorado Chapter of NAIOP travels to Washington DC for the Annual Chapter Leadership and Legislative Retreat.  During this time, leaders from all 53 NAIOP chapters come together to network, share ideas and learn new strategies to improve the organization for you, its members.  The highlight of this Retreat is the Annual Chapter Merit Awards.  This evening gala showcases the best of the best from every chapter.  Each fall, Chapters submit nomination forms in 14 different categories, which are then read by a panel of judges from across the country.  The winners are then honored during the Awards program.  This year, NAIOP Colorado was proud to win top honors in 4 categories!

Education – for the Rocky Mountain Real Estate Challenge

Sustainability Program – ResourceSmart Colorado

Technology – for our integrated communications (website, NAIOPVoice blog, email blast, LinkedIN, etc)

and for all of her hard work…

the first two-time winner of the Chapter Executive Director of the Year Award – Kathie Barstnar!

Congratulations NAIOP Colorado and to all the volunteers who work to make our Chapter programs a success not only on the local level, but the best of the best in the nation!  To read the full press release, click here.

Work Options for Women - Women Cook! Dining for a Difference

Now in its 6^th year, Work Options for Women is excited to once again promote this successful fundraising event to support the WOW program’s “recipe for success.”  The WOW program combines hands-on food service training at two food service establishments with case management, job placement, and follow-up services, implementing what research shows are best practices in job-training to help students move from poverty to self-sufficiency. 

This year’s event will be held Monday, May 3^rd from 6:00 – 8:30pm at Temple Emanuel.  This event has sold out for the past 3 years so find out now how you can be a part of this exciting event!  Click Here for more details, ticket purchase and sponsor opportunities. 

Rocky Mountain Real Estate Challenge Announces Architect and Judge Selection at Kickoff Event

Submitted by Jeff Corn, Fleisher Smyth Brokaw, LLC

NAIOP Colorado announced the selection of architects and judges to take part in this year’s Rocky Mountain Real Estate Challenge.  The announcement was made privately on Thursday, January 28^th at the Denver Coliseum, the subject of this year’s Challenge, as participants and organizers gathered to formally kickoff the 8^th annual event.

“These professionals represent the best and brightest in our industry, and we are pleased to announce their involvement in this year’s Challenge”  said Al Colussy, Principal with the architectural firm klipp, and Chair of this year’s Rocky Mountain Real Estate Challenge Committee.

Architect and Judge selections were made based on relevant experience, expertise, and community involvement. After a three-month selection process beginning last October, NAIOP selected from dozens of potential honorees, ultimately choosing seven architectural firms and eleven judges to take part in this year’s Challenge, which culminates with student presentations at a banquet dinner on May 5^th.

Attend the 2010 Energy Efficiency Expo

Learn how you can save money by lowering your energy costs at the 2010 Energy Efficiency Expo being sponsored by our ResourceSmart Colorado partner, Xcel Energy, on Tuesday, March 2, 2010 from 7:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Westin Westminster.

Join Xcel Energy’s team of energy efficiency experts as they share their best tools and technology to help you save money and lower your energy bills. Highlights of this free event include:

• Energy efficiency workshops will help you identify rebates and incentives to lower your energy costs and meet your energy-savings targets.
• One-on-one thirty minute appointments (with registration at the Expo) with energy efficiency engineers will help you get the answers you need to your specific project-related questions.
• Rebate program managers and engineers will answer your questions and discuss your project ideas or help you get started.
• Fellow business owners and facility managers will share how they set efficiency goals and built a financial case for energy efficiency projects.

Register today at www.XcelEnergyEvent.com 

Metro Denver EDC Releases 2010 Economic Forecast

On January 13th, the Metro Denver Economic Development Corporation (Metro Denver EDC) presented the 2010 Economic Forecast for Metro Denver at Vectra Bank's 17th Annual Economic Forecast Breakfast. Chief Economist Patty Silverstein discussed key economic activity in 2009 and gave her outlook on the economy for the coming year. The event was sponsored by the Metro Denver EDC and the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce. 

According to Silverstein, one of the longest and deepest economic contractions in the nation's history appears to have ended. The potential strength and length of the recovery, however, remains in question.  Click here to read the full report.

City of Denver, RTD and NAIOP Task Students with Redevelopment of Denver Coliseum Site

The City of Denver and RTD have teamed up with NAIOP Colorado to get recommendations from some of commercial real estate’s best and brightest graduate students.

The Coliseum has been a Denver landmark for nearly than 60 years, and visions for its future now lie in the hands of graduate students from the University of Denver and the University of Colorado. 

The City of Denver and RTD are teaming up with NAIOP Colorado for this year’s 8^th annual Rocky Mountain Real Estate Challenge.  The Challenge asks student teams to evaluate and make recommendations for the Coliseum’s redevelopment as they compete with one another to present viable proposals.  The City will take into account the students’ suggestions as future options for the site are developed.

Over the next four months, nearly 50 students will analyze every aspect of the feasibility of redevelopment and will ultimately present their findings to the City at a banquet event on May 5, 2010.  Ticket sales for the event will be open to the public in mid February. 

NAIOP Colorado’s 2010 Annual Economic Forecast

Submitted by:  Martha S. Nachman, Esq./Ballard Spahr LLP

More than 350 members and guests attended NAIOP Colorado’s Annual Economic Forecast program on January 12, 2010, at the Denver Marriott City Center.  Charles E. (Chuck) Sullivan, Head of Global Operations of ProLogis, introduced and served as moderator for the panel of three distinguished economists.  The panelists provided a wealth of information and analysis regarding the trends and outlook for world and U.S. economies; how Colorado’s economy has been performing and is expected to perform relative to the U.S. economy in 2010; and historic and projected occupancy, rental and cap rates for commercial real estate in the Denver metropolitan area.

Insights regarding the global and U.S. economies were provided by the first speaker, Dr. Michael R. Englund, Principal Director and Chief Economist of Action Economics, LLC, a premier provider of real time commentary and analysis for trading room professionals in the global bond and currency markets.  Dr. Englund confirmed that the U.S. real estate collapse did not cause the global recession, but instead was the “canary in the coal mine,” and that the major cause of the recession was global deleveraging.  His materials illustrated that the U.S. economy actually followed, rather than led, the world’s industrialized economies downward.  Dr. Englund observed that, with the exception of housing, which is following a normal cyclical rebound, the recovery of the U.S. economy overall has been, and likely will continue to be, “anemic” unless there is a significant increase in investment by businesses.  In his final remarks, Dr. Englund noted that the U.S. government’s stimulus programs have created massive federal deficits, and, therefore, are a “mixed blessing” for the U.S. economy.  In his summation, Dr. Englund predicted rising yields on U.S. Treasuries and that delays in raising rates will cause steeper increases.

Patricia Silverstein, Chief Consulting Economist for the Metro Denver Economic Development Corporation and President of Development Research Partners, a real estate analysis and economic development research company, discussed how Colorado has been faring in the national recession, trends in the state’s unemployment and personal income rates, and in housing, retail sales and business activity levels.  In 2009, Colorado’s population continued to grow, but unemployment rates increased substantially, with the seven county Denver area alone losing 55,000 jobs.  Consumer confidence and personal income declined, and, not surprisingly, the level of housing and retail sales also fell.  Ms. Silverstein anticipates that in 2010, Colorado should experience a slight recovery in personal income growth rates and retail sales levels and a very modest increase in new jobs in the educational, health and financial services sectors.  State and local governments will continue to face major challenges due to lower sales and property tax revenues.  Ms. Silverstein concluded that, despite the damaging effects of the recession on employment, personal income, and state and local tax revenues, improvements in the Colorado and Denver area economies, led by increasing stability in employment and the residential real estate market, should become more apparent by mid 2010.

Dr. Glenn Mueller, a Professor at Denver University’s Burns School of Real Estate and Construction Management, shared his research and views regarding different sectors of the U.S. and Denver area commercial real estate markets.  He predicted occupancy and rental rates in Denver office properties will remain negative in 2010 and 2011, but become positive in the following two years.  Dr. Mueller also expects that, because Denver area industrial properties experienced only modest declines in occupancy rates, rental rates will improve first in this sector as levels of inventory and exporting and importing activities increase.  Dr. Mueller expects the absorption of excess retail space to be slow, and rents not to increase in this category in the Denver area until 2013 and 2014.  He observed real estate is a “delayed mirror of the economy,” and that following gradual improvements in the economy and employment rates in 2010, the recovery phase in real estate will occur in 2011 and 2012.  He noted commercial properties in the U.S. are priced well below comparable properties in other countries, and that significant buying opportunities exist for cash buyers of, and there are large amounts of capital poised to buy, U.S. commercial properties.  In response to a question from the audience, Dr. Mueller remarked that he expects population growth and inflation to cause price increases over a longer term.

ProLogis was the primary sponsor of the program and additional sponsorship was provided by Prime West Companies and First American Title Insurance Company.  Wayne E. Barrett of Prologis, James P. Creighton of Revest, Inc., and Martha S. Nachman of Ballard Spahr LLP, were the program organizers. 

 

Call for Submissions: 2009 NAIOP Colorado Awards of Achievement

NAIOP Colorado will honor the members among us in the Commercial Estate Industry who have been selected as the "Best of the Best" at the 2009 Annual Awards of Achievement Luncheon scheduled for February 18, 2010 at the Denver Center for the Performing Arts’ Seawell Ballroom.  Be sure to nominate your project or broker by Wednesday, January 6, 2010!

 

Brokerage Categories include:

• Office Broker of the Year
• Industrial Broker of the Year
• Investment Broker of the Year
• Land Broker of the Year
• Retail Broker of the Year
• Broker Outstanding Achievement Award

 Development Categories include:

• Office Development of the Year
• Industrial Development of the Year
• Mixed Use Development of the Year
• Development of the Year
• Owner/Developer of the Year
• Special Development of the Year

All nomination forms and supporting information must be submitted to the NAIOP Colorado Chapter office on or before Wednesday, January 6, 2010.  Click Here for the award criteria and nomination forms.

 

Any materials received on or after January 7, 2010 will not be accepted.  Specific information about what must be submitted is listed in detail on the Broker and Developer Submission Check Lists.  In order to submit a nomination, you must be a member of the NAIOP Colorado Chapter.  Questions regarding the awards program may be addressed to Kathie Barstnar or Jayma File at the NAIOP chapter office at 303.782.0155. 

 

We look forward to receiving your nominations prior to January 6th, and to sharing the winners with you at our Awards Luncheon on February 18, 2010.  For ticket information, please contact the NAIOP office at 303.782.0155.

Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce Inside Report - Being Thankful in Tough Times

On November 24^th, Kelly Brough, President and CEO for the Denver Metro Chamber, shared some important reasons for business to be thankful in the midst of such a difficult year, including job growth for Colorado.  Click here to read the full report.

NAIOP Colorado Supports Denver Childrens Home

Submitted by Jason Newcomer, Community Relations Chair, DCS Inc.

Happy Holidays NAIOP members! This year we would like to make a special request to all of our members. NAIOP has agreed to be a sponsor for the Denver Children's Home this year and we are asking for your support. For those of you that are not aware of Denver Children's Home, it is the oldest non-profit in the state started back in 1876. Their mission is to care for the state's abused and neglected children. They provide a therapeutic, safe place for emotionally distressed children and adolescents. Like most other non-profits Denver Children's Home has struggled as donations have fallen off this year. That is where we hope you can help NAIOP fill the void!

Click Hereto see a list of items needed by the home.  Please purchase a item, buy a gift card or simply write a check. We will be collecting these items at the Chapter’s Annual Holiday Receptionon the evening of December 8th, so if you plan to attend you can bring with you to the party. If you are not attending you can drop off your donation/gift at the NAIOP offices. We will be delivering the gifts and donations on Friday, December 11th so we ask that you have the gifts to NAIOP by Thursday December, 10th. Thank you to everyone who has already committed to giving this year and have a safe and happy finish to 2009.

Revisiting Gallagher: Facts and (Un)intended Consequences

On Wednesday, December 9^th, the CSU Everitt Real Estate Center will present new research on Colorado’s residential and commercial property tax trends affected by the Gallagher amendments.  Will current property devaluations impact Colorado’s competitive advantage in a recovery adversely impacting commercial real estate properties?  Come learn the facts and hear and see the very valid opposing viewpoints and suggested solutions.  Click Here for more details and to download a printable registration form.

MDEDC Monthly Economic Summary - Job Growth in Denver

November 3, 2009, Metro Denver Economic Development Corporation’s Monthly Economic Summary Investor e-Alert –
In Metro Denver, numerous company announcements over the past several months reflect the region’s strong business climate – even during recession – and will help establish a base for job growth as conditions improve, according to data compiled by the MDEDC.  Click here to read the full report.

NAIOP's 2nd Sponsored University Outreach Event draws a big crowd

For the 2^nd time, a University Outreach event was held at both the University of Colorado and the University of Denver.  Each location drew more than 35 attendees.  At the event on October 19^th at the University of Colorado, students learned about Developement from Rick Woodruff, The WW Reynolds Company and Jason Newcomer, DCS Inc.  Kim Koehn, K2 Ventures and Pete Tobin, Ascendant Development Corp. talked about what is involved with Ownership.  The ups and downs of the brokerage markets were discussed by Tim Harrington, Grubb and Ellis and TJ Johnson, Fuller and Company.  Finance was covered by Craig Poulter, The PrivateBank and Sara Croot, BBVA Compass.  The details of Entitlement, Due Diligence, and Architecture were handled by Brian Hall, CVL Consultants and Morgan Landers, Brownfield Partners, LLC.

At the University Outreach event on October 27^th at the University of Denver, the same topics were covered by other industry leaders and NAIOP members as follows:  Development – Patti Gage, z/2 Partners LLC and Jeff corn, Fleisher Smyth Brokaw LLC; Ownership – Michelle Brokaw, Fleisher Smyth Brokaw, LLC and Dan Metzger, Dividend Capital Total Realty Trust; Brokerage – Frank Kelley, CB Richard Ellis and Megan Byrne, Grubb and Ellis; Finance – Richard Morgan, Colorado State Bank & Trust and Fran Federman, ProLogis; Entitlement/Due Diligence/Architecture – Nanci Kerr, Sky to Ground LLC and Doris Rigoni, Chicago Title of Colorado, Inc.

For each of these events, the student attendees submitted their resumes to be shared with the speakers as well as for posting on the NAIOP Colorado website.  Any NAIOP member who might be looking for a bright addition to your team should click here to view all the student resumes.  Keep in mind, this is a Member Only benefit and you will need to login to access your potential employee’s resume.

NAIOP DL's and SL's raise $6000 to Support Colorado At-Risk Youth

Submitted by Pete Tobin, Ascendant Development and Mindy Humphrey, Security Title Guaranty Company
2009 Mustach4Cash/Color4Kids Co-Chairs

As many of you know, this was the first year NAIOP participated in this fundraising effort and we must say, it was a refreshing way to raise money for such an important cause.   We had 2 teams:  The Seasoned Leaders (with 4 strong participants) who finished 11th in overall fundraising and the Developing Leaders (with 10 strong participants) finishing 4th in the team competition.  The combined NAIOP team totals place our organization 3rd overall for this event.

The results are in:  THE DEVELOPING LEADERS WON!

NAIOP Explores Efficiency Incentives/Rebates in Commercial Real Estate

Submitted by Joseph Dischinger, Fairfield & Woods PC

ResourceSmart Colorado presented an informative breakfast program on October 13 about technical assistance and financial incentives available to the owners and operators of commercial buildings for reducing consumption of water and energy.  ResourceSmart Colorado is a ground-breaking partnership among NAIOP Colorado, Denver Water and Xcel Energy to promote conservation in office buildings, warehouses and other commercial real estate in the Denver metropolitan area.

The program began with a brief quiz show titled “Are You Smarter Than Jim Creighton?”  Moderator Susan Stanton asked audience members and the Chapter’s Programs Committee Chairman Jim Creighton multiple choice questions about resource conservation, which Mr. Creighton gamely answered incorrectly.  During the quiz show, the audience was treated to a running toilet – an actor, dressed in a toilet costume, ran through the crowd.

The Art of Influence and Collaboration in Commercial Real Estate

Submitted by Sara Croot, BBVA Compass Bank

The NAIOP DL Program held their second annual educational event on October 22, 2009. The event was held at the Dominion Plaza Conference Center, a venue donated by 2009 NAIOP DL Sponsor, Callahan Capital Partners.  

The topic was Emotional Intelligence; the physiological and behavioral aspects of effective communication. Emotional Intelligence is the study of interpersonal understanding of how to effectively interpret emotional signals and respond accordingly. The session was led by James Terrell, Vice President of Collaborative Growth, LLC, a Golden Colorado based company founded in 1993 which helps people achieve their purpose through maximizing productivity. Collaborative Growth is a full-service leadership and strategic development company which works with organizations and employees to align workplace effectiveness with individual fulfillment.

Mr. Terrell’s presentation began with an overview of Emotional Intelligence and the idea that effective communication means being responsible for both the message sent and the message received. Through some creative exercises which emphasized the power of non-verbal communication, the participants began to understand the powerful messages sent intentionally and unintentionally through non-verbal cues. The second half of the presentation was devoted to application as it pertains to our day-to-day business relationships with colleagues, management, subordinates and even personal relationships with spouses, partners or children.

DL Spotlight on Karen Van Heukelem and Adam Faleck

Submitted by Developing Leaders Committee

Karen Van Heukelem
Business Developer, Colorado Hardscapes, Inc.

Karen currently works as a Business Developer for Colorado Hardscapes, Inc.  Growing up in the family decorative concrete business at Colorado Hardscapes, she has the construction industry engrained in her culture.  Karen returned to Colorado Hardscapes 3 years ago after getting her undergraduate degree and worked as Marketing Director for 2 years.  Her experience at Colorado Hardscapes ranges from estimating, sales, marketing, administrative, and inventory.  Karen has been in the industry for a total of 10 years. 

To read the rest of the DL Spotlight on Karen click here.  To learn more about Karen, check out her profile on LinkedIn® or contact her directly at karen@coloradohardscapes.com.

Adam Faleck
Sales Associate, Margenau Associates, Inc.

Adam is a Sales Associate for Margenau Associates, Inc. (MAI) www.margenauassoc.com , where his job focus is addressing speech privacy issues.  Adam provides MAI’s Architectural Design Customers with Continuing Education Seminars to educate and update them with all new technology and acoustical best practices.  Adam’s knowledge of acoustical application and design allows him to bring a value-added approach to MAI’s design/build clients.

To read the rest of the DL Spotlight on Adam click here.  To learn more about Adam, check out his profile on LinkedIn® or contact him directly at adam@margenauassoc.com.  

Landers and Newcomer Named NAIOP Corporate DL Award Winners

NAIOP Corporate announced the 2009 Developing Leader Award winners on Monday, September 14^th.  NAIOP established the award in 2006 to recognize rising professionals who have distinguished themselves within their profession and who show great promise as influential leaders in the commercial real estate industry. NAIOP members, age 35 and under, were encouraged to apply for the award and were evaluated on the following criteria: leadership, professional competency, career goals, education, NAIOP participation, community involvement and judge’s discretion of merit.  Among the 16 winners named are Colorado’s own Morgan Landers, Urban Planner, Brownfield Partners and Jason Newcomer, Managing Partner, Natural Capital Management.  For the full story, click here.

Mustache 4 Cash - Color 4 Kidz Fundraiser

This October, we're looking for 50 Brave NAIOP Members who are willing to sacrifice their looks and their locks as participants in...

Do it for the Kids!   Each year this organization raises money for local non-profits that support Denver at-risk youth programs such as Byrne Urban Scholars and Colorado Youth at Risk. 

Join a Team!  Our goal is to have two competing teams from the NAIOP Community:  

The "Seasoned" Leaders  vs.  The "Developing" Leaders

It's Simple!  All we ask is that guys grow a mustache or ladies color your hair (a streak, full color, or clip in color streak) during the first 3 weeks of October.  Participants collect pledges from family, friends, co-workers, baristas, bus drivers, etc.  Every Thursday during October there is a "How Is It Growin'" event at local Denver establishments. The events are a terrific opportunity to network with other professionals and check out the hot new looks of your fellow NAIOP participants.   
 
To register to rock a 'stache or color:
1. Visit the website: www.mustache4cash.org
2. Click the register button
3. Fill out your contact information and password
4. Select your team:  NAIOP Seasoned Leaders (for those over 35) or  NAIOP Developing  Leaders (for those 35 years of age or under) 

Stay Tuned... For more information leading up to the event, or if you have questions, please contact the NAIOP M4C/C4K Team Leaders:

Mindy Humphrey
ph: 303.618.6569 / email: mhumphrey@stgco.com
 or
Pete Tobin
ph: 303.912.8654 / email:  pjt@ascendantdevelopment.com

Volunteers for Outdoor Colorado Project

Those of you, who weren’t able to participate in the Gates Camp Cleanup this year, don’t worry, we still want your help and this opportunity is a lot closer to home. Grab your work gloves, friends, significant others, children, and anyone else that wants to improve one of Denver’s most beloved parks!

On October 10th, NAIOP is teaming with Volunteers for Outdoor Colorado (VOC) for a trail building day at the City of Axum Park, in the northeast Park Hill Neighborhood of Denver. NAIOP volunteers will join 200 other volunteers to construct a walking and biking path around the park, approximately a half-mile trail. No experience is necessary and anyone over the age of 8 years old can participate.

The event is from 8:00am to 4:00pm but you don’t have to commit the whole day! Volunteers have the option to do a morning, afternoon, or all day shift.

Northeast Park Hill is one of Denver’s oldest, most diverse, and interesting neighborhoods. Many non-profits are engaged in the project and NAIOP sees this as a great opportunity to give back to the Denver-Metro area.

Contact Morgan Landers at mlanders@brownfieldpartners.net for more information regarding this great opportunity. It is going to be a great day!

August Breakfast meeting: Solving the Generational Puzzle

Submitted by Jeff Corn, Fleisher Smyth Brokaw

The August 11th breakfast meeting featured a thought provoking and pertinent presentation that profiled the generational differences found within the commercial real estate workplace. By recognizing and understanding the four main generations within the industry, Caroline Turner of the Athena Group explained how it is possible to leverage the characteristics of each generation to your advantage.

Michelle Brokaw and Jeff Corn of Fleisher Smyth Brokaw moderated the meeting. They joined Jim Creighton as the three showed off their acting skills in an entertaining portrayal of a situation that might arise in the office as a result of the generational differences that are common in today’s commercial real estate industry.

Announcing 2009 Virtual Property Tour of Downtown Denver & CBD Update

Join the NAIOP Colorado Chapter and major sponsor Security Title Guaranty Company on Tuesday, September 22, 2009 from 5:00 to 7:30 pm at the Newman Center for the Performing Arts (located at the University of Denver) for the 2009 Virtual Property Tour of Downtown Denver and Central Business Districut Update. 

This unique media experience will feature new and ongoing projects in downtown Denver.  Including a variety of commercial, mixed use, residential and hotels such as:
 
- 17th & Larimer Centennial Realty Advisors
- 1899 Wynkoop Centennial Realty Advisors
- Parkway Office Centre DPC Development
- 1800 Glenarm Fuller Real Estate
- Trinity Place The Broe Group
- SugarCube JE Dunn
- Granite Tower Granite Properties
- Denver Place LBA Realty
- Hilton Garden Inn Downtown Stonebridge Companies
- Hilton Garden Inn Cherry Creek Stonebridge Companies
- Tower Private Residences Four Seasons
- Glass House JE Dunn
- Republic Plaza Brookefield Properties
- Dominion Tower CB Richard Ellis
- US Bank Tower CB Richard Ellis
- Mile High Center The Broe Group
- The Spire JE Dunn

See what's going on with the Denver Zoning Commission.  Plus, hear a market update on the various real estate segments in downtown featuring Tom Clark of Metro Denver Economic Development Corporation and Tami Door of Downtown Denver Partnership.  Mr. Clark and Ms. Door will also share commentary on key issues and enticements for owners, investors and developers considering a downtown project.
 
No live presentations!  All pre-recorded in just under 60 minutes!  Register by September 8 and pay reduced registration rates!
 
Click Here for more information or to register now! Or, Click Here for a printable registration form.

Additional marketing opportunities are still available!  Include your company’s full or half page ad in our onsite event program.  For more details, contact Jayma File of NAIOP at (303) 782–0155 or jfile@wmrdenver.com.

18th Annual Brokers Benefiting Kids Event

Submitted by Ben Woolf, Project Manager, University of Colorado Real Estate Foundation

What is a better way to spend a Saturday morning than competing in field games against your favorite real estate professionals?  After participating in the 18th annual Brokers Benefiting Kids event I can’t think of one, however my aching body may disagree.  On a beautiful Saturday morning a team of eight NAIOP Developing Leaders gathered at Inverness Business Park to join hundreds of other commercial real estate professionals in a morning of fun with a good purpose behind it.  While the team didn’t have customized shirts or tryouts, there was hope amongst the members of victory as we all went through introductions by the registration table.  After a resounding pummeling in volleyball by a CBRE team filled with semi-professional volleyball spikers, your NAIOP DL’s figured a group cocktail could help improve form.  Heading into Bocci Ball and Horseshoes there was hope, until Crimson Services won Bocci Ball on a last second point and played Horseshoes as if they invented the game.  Two events down and two resounding losses.  Surely the obstacle course would be a place to regain the early morning swagger. 

DL Mentor Program Kickoff Event

Submitted by Joanna Bartnik, Alliance Commercial Partners

The Developing Leaders Mentor Class Commencement event was held on August 19, 2009 at the Wellshire Inn.  Mentees and Mentors were introduced and a total of 50 attendees were at the event.  The Mentorship class this year is comprised of 23 matches pairing a Developing Leader Member with a highly experienced industry professional.  The selection process for mentees included submission of an application and a formal interview, and those who were chosen as mentees were paired with a mentor who the committee felt would be most appropriate for each.  For those not selected, please apply again next year, and we strongly recommend further involvement in the DL Committee in the interim.  Congratulations to this year’s class! 

August Green Series Meeting: The Legalities

Submitted by Dan Cohen, Urban Investment Group

On Wednesday, August 19th, the NAIOP Green Series Education Committee held its fourth session of this year’s Sustainability Series, “Going Green to Find Gold in Your Existing Building.” This five-part breakfast series is designed for building owners, property managers, real estate professionals, developers and others who want to build on last year’s green series with additional, pertinent and to-the-point subject matter on the particulars of “greening up” an existing building. Session Four, “The Legalities," was organized by Dan Cohen, formerly a Vice President with Catellus Development, now with his own firm, Urban Investment Group.

The session included three speakers. Carolynne White, a land use attorney with Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck, gave a presentation entitled: "The Legalities: The Regulatory Environment." The presentation was an overview of the current regulatory environment at the federal, State, and local levels with regard to regulation and funding for energy efficiency plans and improvements. At the federal level, Ms. White discussed a variety of programs, including funding headed to Colorado cities from the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) program. At the State level, Ms. White explained a number of bills considered or passed and indicated that most of the State's climate action efforts are actually implemented at the local level. At the local level, the trend in Colorado is for more green building regulations. Cities such as Denver, Aurora, Lakewood, and Wheat Ridge are all amending their codes. Ms. White closed with the prediction that the trend will be for more regulation in the future in Colorado.  Click here to see Ms. White’s presentation materials.

MDEDC offers Mid-Year Economic Forecast: Colorado "last in, first out" of recession

On August 11, 2009, Metro Denver Econimic Development Corporation sent out it Mid Year Economic Forecast in its Investor e-Alert.  “Because of Denver’s diverse economy, we expect we’ll be ‘last in, first out’ of the recession,” stated Tom Clark, executive vice president of MDEDC.  “Plus, Metro Denver is on the radar for international and national company relocations and expansions that could further stabilize our labor market.”  Click here to read the full report.

DL Spotlight on Morgan Landers

Submitted by Developing Leaders Committee

Morgan Landers
Planner, Brownfield Partners, LLC

Morgan currently works as a Planner for Brownfield Partners, LLC where her job focus is primarily new development proposals and community outreach for current projects.

Morgan began her professional career in real estate began 3 years ago with a position as a project manager for a residential real estate development company.  Morgan then transitioned to a position as a Community Planner/Project Manager for a local non-profit while she was in graduate school.  While in that position, her responsibilities included community outreach, a park redevelopment project and grant writing. 

Top 10 Reasons to Join NAIOP Colorado LinkedIn Group

Social Networking got you down? Are you overwhelmed and don't know where to start? Whether you like it or not, our business world is depending more and more upon social networking and NAIOP Colorado wants to help you take the lead!

TOP 10 REASONS TO JOIN LINKEDIN

1. First rate job search engine.

2. The ability to post news worthy items that affect you and your industry. You can also view and comment on others postings. A great way to be kept in the loop!

3. Keeping track of your friends, co-workers and former co-workers in this mobile world.

4. It's a great way to "bridge" relationship and to make connections that would otherwise be impossible - you will be amazed at who you can meet through who you know!

5. An excellent way to see what your colleagues are doing, who they know that you want to know and to share what you are doing or may need help on.

6. A great place for past clients to post their recommendation of your work so 40 million people can see them!

7. You can become the Q&A expert in the Q&A area of your choice.

8. It's Facebook for the professional working world. You will never be asked about your favorite song, movie or food like other social networking sites. The networking that takes place on LinkedIn is based on your professional resume and experience!

9. LinkedIn has leveled the playing field when it comes to networking.

10. Because this is the way our society is heading and you have to decide whether you're going to get in from of it or will you be playing catch up somewhere down the road?

WHAT'S MORE? The NAIOP Colorado Chapter is offering a Free LinkedIn Tutorial on Friday, August 21^st from 12 noon until 1 pm at the Gensler offices in downtown Denver.  Featured presenter and Chapter Member, Stephen Sanders will instruct attendees on how to build your profile, send updates, post discussions and more! For additional details, contact Jayma File at the NAIOP office by phone (303) 782–0166 or email jfile@wmrdenver.com.

NAIOP Colorado, Xcel Energy and Denver Water Launch Precedent-Setting Partnership to Promote Commercial-Sector Conservation

 Three of Colorado’s leading organizations, NAIOP Colorado, Xcel Energy and Denver Water, have formed a groundbreaking partnership to promote energy and water conservation in office buildings, warehouses and other commercial real estate in the Denver metropolitan area.  Known as ResourceSmart Colorado, this program aims to make a significant difference in improving the energy and water efficiency of Colorado’s commercial real estate sector.

“By bringing together two of the region’s largest utilities with NAIOP Colorado, ResourceSmart Colorado has the potential to create unprecedented change in promoting greener, more environmentally friendly practices in Colorado’s commercial buildings,” said Kathie Barstnar, executive director of NAIOP Colorado. “The program will give the key decision-makers of the commercial real estate industry the tools they need to implement the best, most cost-effective conservation programs and cutting-edge green building practices. It’s a win-win for all involved.”

The United States commercial real estate sector uses a tremendous amount of energy and water. Commercial buildings consume 36 percent of all electricity produced in the country and use an estimated 10 billion gallons of water each day in the United States.  In the Denver Metro area alone, Denver Water’s commercial customers use more than 14.7 billion gallons of water annually — enough water to pour one foot of water onto 45,000 football fields. 

Both Xcel Energy and Denver Water have made commercial-sector conservation a priority and offer a variety of related programs and incentives, including audits and financial incentives for customers who switch to more efficient technologies. While these programs have been successful, the challenge has been making sure that the right people in the commercial real estate sector know about them.  That is where NAIOP Colorado, the Commercial Real Estate Development Association, came in. 

NAIOP’s Colorado chapter is one of the largest and most active chapters in the country, with nearly 800 members representing the owners and key decision-makers in the region’s commercial real estate industry. After some initial discussions with Denver Water and Xcel Energy, it became readily apparent that by working together, these three entities could make significant strides in saving water and energy while also helping local businesses to lower their costs and improve their bottom line. 

Governor Bill Ritter, whose administration has been a champion of climate change issues, has already voiced his enthusiastic support of the partnership. He said: “In this time of increasingly scarce natural resources, it is more important than ever for commercial buildings to be as efficient as they can be.  This unprecedented partnership will not only help the environment, it will also help Colorado’s economy by enabling businesses to save money on utility costs.”

Through ResourceSmart Colorado, the Colorado chapter of NAIOP will work with both utilities to promote the need to conserve energy and water and to make its members aware of the programs and incentives that are available. This will be achieved through a variety of forums, events, programs and communication tools. As a part of the program’s launch, NAIOP Colorado plans to:

• Launch a new Web site devoted specifically to water and energy conservation, providing tips, conservation incentives and more;
• Host a breakfast meeting on Oct. 13 for NAIOP Colorado members to learn about the programs and incentives each utility offers;
• Act as a facilitator in bringing individual commercial real estate companies together with Xcel Energy and Denver Water for one-on-one consultations; and
• Identify additional opportunities to educate NAIOP Colorado members of the many conservation programs that Denver Water and Xcel Energy offer.

                                                                                               Additional initiatives in conjunction with ResourceSmart Colorado will be announced in the coming months. For more information about the program, or to schedule an interview with a representative from NAIOP Colorado, Denver Water or Xcel Energy, contact Megan Lane from GBSM at (303) 825-6100, Stacy Chesney from Denver Water at (720) 232-7214, Mark Stutz from Xcel Energy at (303) 294-2300 or Kathie Barstnar from NAIOP Colorado at (303) 782-0155.

ABOUT THE PARTNERS

NAIOP Colorado is a chapter of NAIOP, the Commercial Real Estate Development Association, and it comprises nearly 800 members serving the market.  NAIOP is the leading organization for developers, owners and related professionals in office, industrial and mixed-use real estate, with 15,000 members in North America.  NAIOP advances responsible commercial real estate development and advocates for effective public policy. For more information, visit www.naiop-colorado.org.

Denver Water proudly serves high-quality water and promotes its efficient use to 1.3 million people in the city of Denver and many surrounding suburbs. Established in 1918, the utility is a public agency not funded by taxes, but by water rates and new tap fees. It is Colorado's oldest and largest water utility.

Xcel Energy (NYSE: XEL) is a major U.S. electricity and natural gas company with regulated operations in eight Western and Midwestern states. Xcel Energy provides a comprehensive portfolio of energy-related products and services to 3.4 million electricity customers and 1.9 million natural gas customers through its regulated operating companies. Company headquarters are located in Minneapolis. More information is available at www.xcelenergy.com.

Metro Denver's livability and corporate environment help buoy economy

Published by Metro Denver EDC

Despite a declining commercial real estate market, Metro Denver’s high marks for livability and corporate environment will continue to attract business interest that fundamentally supports commercial real estate, according to data compiled by the Metro Denver Economic Development Corporation (Metro Denver EDC) in its Monthly Economic Summary for August 2009.
 
Tight financing is one of the largest challenges facing property owners with maturing loans, and developers are also struggling to fund projects. Additionally, heavy job losses have cut demand for office property and retail traffic has fallen considerably as consumers remain worried. Despite these obstacles, Metro Denver’s commercial markets have weakened less than they did in prior downturns.
 
“On the other hand, restrained development has limited the excess inventory that now burdens other metro area markets,” stated Tom Clark, executive vice president of the Metro Denver EDC. “We are continuing to report a better-than-average outlook for Metro Denver’s economy.”
 
Colorado is the nation’s third-best state for business, according to an annual ranking by CNBC.com. The ranking was based on 40 metrics in ten broad categories, including workforce, quality of life, and costs of living and doing business. Colorado received top-10 rankings in the categories that measure business friendliness, access to capital, and overall economy. Click Here to continue reading.

NAIOP joins Xcel Energy, Denver Water to be ResourceSmart

Submitted by Kathie Barstnar, NAIOP Colorado Executive Director

NAIOP-Colorado’s ResourceSmart Colorado initiative is a precedent-setting program bringing together  three leading Colorado organizations in pursuit of a common goal: to make office buildings, warehouses and other commercial real estate in the Denver-metro area more energy and water-efficient.  By joining forces, these three organizations have a unique opportunity to reduce the amount of valuable resources consumed in Colorado’s commercial buildings:

• The Colorado chapter of NAIOP, the Commercial Real Estate Development Association, is one of the largest and most active chapters in the country with approximately 850 members representing the owners and key decision-makers of the region’s commercial real estate industry.

• Xcel Energy is Colorado’s largest electricity and natural gas utility, serving more than 1.6 million customers. Its business customers in Colorado consume more than 19 billion kilowatt hours of electricity and 414 million therms of natural gas each year.

• Denver Water serves more than 1.3 million customers in the Denver metro area. Its customers use more than 225,000 acre feet of water each year, 20 percent of which is used by the commercial sector.

By coming together, these three groups have the ability to make a real difference in improving the energy and water efficiency of Colorado’s commercial real estate.

Developing Leaders Keep Denver Beautiful

Submitted by Sara Croot, BBVA Compass

On Saturday July 18th, the NAIOP Colorado Developing Leaders (DL) Program participated in the City of Denver’s Keep Denver Beautiful Program, volunteering for graffiti removal and alley clean-up initiatives.

The DL volunteers focused on the south metro Denver neighborhoods and spend the morning hours cleaning graffiti off of public dumpsters and public property. Focus was also on trash removal cleanup in the alleys between 1st and 5th Avenues off of Santa Fe. Approximately 30 dumpsters were re-painted and 8 city blocks of alley ways were cleaned up. Our goal was to help our neighbors in our community to keep our city streets and alley ways clean and safe.  At the end of their efforts on this warm summer day, DL volunteers grabbed a drink at El Noa Noa to cool off.

Thanks to our DL volunteers for their time and efforts! From left, Rob Boydston, Jason Newcomer, Pete Tobin, TJ Johnson, Chad Knoth and  George Sliwiak. Not shown, Joanna Bartnik and Sara Croot. Click Here for more information on the NAIOP Colorado Chapter’s Developing Leader program including upcoming events.  For more information on the City of Denver’s Keep Denver Beautiful Program, please visit their website at www.denvergov.org/KeepDenverBeautiful.

  

NAIOP Colorado Continues Support of 18th Annual Brokers Benefiting Kids

Submitted by Morgan Landers, Brownfield Partners, LLC

Grab your running shoes, sunscreen, hats, and business cards and join fellow NAIOP members for the 18th Annual Brokers Benefiting Kids Field Day. For the past few years, NAIOP, its members and companies have supported Brokers Benefiting Kids and this year is just as important as last. Real estate is not the only suffering group in the economy right now. We know that things will get better and we need to be sure that the children of the Denver Metro area have the means to take positive advantage of that bright future!
 
There are multiple ways you can help!  First and foremost, make a personal donation or ask your company to donate to the cause. Many companies have a long standing commitment to BBK and continue to do so during years of tight budgets. Remember, every little bit helps so go to www.bbkdenver.com and make an online donation. Individuals and companies that donate are recognized in many different ways by BBK and Denver 20/30 so be sure to get your name out there for supporting such an amazing cause!
 
Second, come to the main event on August 22nd, at Inverness Business Park in Englewood. Be a participating member of the NAIOP team and get all the perks! Team participation is FREE and you will receive a t-shirt, free beverages and food, and the opportunity to network with hundreds of fellow real estate professionals while partaking in numerous recreational activities. Please email Morgan Landers at mlanders@brownfieldpartners.net for more information and to register for the NAIOP team.
 
Don't pass up this fun filled day of games, food, and fun!! Join NAIOP in supporting our children!!

Denver Market Forecast

Submitted by Sherman Miller, Cushman & Wakefield

The July 14th breakfast meeting titled, “Mid Year Commercial Forecast”, featured a panel of the 2008 NAIOP Brokers award winners.  The presenters included Mike Winn and Tim Richey of Cushman & Wakefield (Investment), Barry Dorfman of Jones Lang LaSalle (Office), Jim Bolt and Mike Camp of CB Richard Ellis (Industrial), Stew Mosko of Fuller Real Estate (Land), and Jon Weisiger of CB Richard Ellis (Retail). Sherman Miller of Cushman & Wakefield moderated the panel presentation and discussion.
           
The program featured videos clips from each of the presenter’s children and their candid remarks about their individual fathers were funny and poignant at the same time.  Each of the speakers then presented an overview of how their specialty market has been performing.  While the information was generally down due to the market conditions, each speaker provided some hope for recovery.  The general consensus was that Denver will see the market trend upwards in 2011.  This cycle has not featured the over building as in the past and the Denver economy has diversified from prior cycles.

Special recognition goes to Charmaine Rodden of Cushman & Wakefield for her work behind the scenes with the videos.  Click Here to view the featured speakers slide presentations.

Analysis of Audit: Prioritizing & Cost

Submitted by Karen Van Heukelem, LEED AP, Colorado Hardscapes, Inc.

NAIOP’s Green Series is off to a great start. The second installment of the series, on June 17th, was sponsored by Swinerton Builders, the venue provided by Holland and Hart, and breakfast by Taylor Kohrs. With speakers from EMC Engineers, The Governor’s Energy Office, and Swinerton Builders, NAIOP members and guests received an in-depth exploration of retro-fitting an existing building from these different industry perspectives.

To begin, Tom Poeling, Vice President of EMC Engineers, led the discussion on retro-commissioning. With over 17 years of experience in the field of energy conservation and optimizing HVAC systems, Tom not only has the knowledge and experience for turning buildings and systems “green”, he has the passion for it. Per Tom’s presentation, the number one reason for commissioning an existing building is to obtain energy savings. The energy commissioning practice is a process of looking at a buildings system, identify how it was intended to function originally, how it is operating today, and what improvements can be made. Tom Poeling stated, “Existing Building Commissioning is a systematic process for investigating, analyzing, and optimizing the performance of building systems through the identification and implementation of low/no cost and capital intensive Facility Improvement Measures and ensuring their continued performance over time”. The phases that go into this process are planning, investigagtion, implementation, turnover, and persistence. For more information about these processes and the top ten HVAC opportunities, and top five gas opportunities, click here to view a copy of Tom’s presentation.

The next speaker came from the Governor’s Energy Office (GEO). Joel Asrael, the Manager of Commercial Buildings program at GEO, has a master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, is a LEED AP, a Certified Energy Manager, and has over 10 years of experience in performance contracting. Joel introduced the group to Governor Ritter’s Climate Action Plan, the High Performance Certification Program, information about the Governor’s Energy Office, and the sources of Colorado’s Federal Stimulus. Some highlights of Govenor Ritter’s Climate Action Plan are a 20% reduction of GHG emissions by 2020 and 80% reduction by 2050 (with 2005 being the baseline). The High Performance Certification Program sets a stage requiring certification with USGBC’s LEED program with a goal of LEED Gold, with leading by example programs in place for government buildings. Colorado’s three sources of funding come from the Weatherization Assistance Program, Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant, and the State Energy Plan. Joel also briefly touched on GEO’s Main Street program that they hope to have launched this summer. Keep your eyes and ears open for more information about that. To discover more, click here to view a copy of Joel’s presentation. For more resources and information about performance contracting, click here to visit their website.

The event’s final speaker, Clay Strickland has hands-on experience with LEED EB as Swinerton is in the process of certifying their building. Clay presented on the process, advantages, tips and tricks of LEED EB. To reinforce what the Tom stated in his presentation, Clay dove into the LEED for Existing Building O&M. Stressing the importance of having the right team together and training the staff about the green improvements to help maintain the level of sustainability achieved.  Click here to view a copy of Clay’s presentation.

Thanks to these speakers and the sponsors of this event for unveiling the discovery of gold buried in the buildings around town.

Members Share Experiences from the 80s

Submitted by Patrick Devereaux, Cushman & Wakefield

The June 9th breakfast meeting titled “How We Will Survive This Crisis: Lessons Learned From The 80s,” featured NAIOP Colorado members representing multiple disciplines within the commercial real estate industry.  Presenters included Peter Coakley of Inverness Properties, Steve Clark of Prime West Development, Mary Sullivan of CB Richard Ellis and Mike Cantwell of Johnson Capital Colorado.

The panel was moderated by Patrick Devereaux of the Chapter’s Programs Committee, who revealed some of the presenter’s favorite entertainment memories from the 80s (Madonna, Saturday Night Live, Caddy Shack, and Prince to name a few). Each panel member shared their experiences, war stories and lessons learned from the 80s and discussed how those lessons can be applied to our businesses today. Three members of the Chapter’s Developing Leader group then posed challenging questions to the panel members. 

Colorado becomes first Corporate PAC Gold Champions for 2009

Submitted by Bob Moody, VP of Government Affairs, NAIOP Colorado

NAIOP Colorado continues to play a significant role in ensuring that the voice of the commercial real estate development industry is heard on Capitol Hill not only in Colorado but in our Nation’s Capitol.  By becoming the first Chapter in 2009 to reach NAIOP-PAC Gold Champion status we maintain a strong presence in our nation’s capital which is more vital than ever before in light of the unprecedented economic challenges the industry is currently facing. Issues and pending legislation that would have significant impact on commercial real estate development include the availability of credit for commercial markets, legislative efforts to more than double taxes on compensation from partnership carried interest and establishment of strict federal mandates forcing states to increase energy efficiencies in building codes.  Thanks to our corporate PAC Trustees – Larry Lance, Jim Mulligan, Michelle Brokaw and Kathie Barstnar.  Thanks also to our other corporate PAC donors – your help and participation in this process, including your personal financial commitments ensure the protection of our industry and that our voice is heard!

Here is how NAIOP Colorado compares to the other large chapters in Corporate PAC investments:

Click Here, for more information or to become a corporate PAC Donor and follow the instructions.  Get involved – it feels good and protects your industry as we move through this downturn and look toward a future bright with possibilities.

Volunteers Brave the Elements at Gates Camp

Submitted by Mark Cheeks, Ware Malcomb

Saturday, May 30, 2009 was NAIOP’s twelfth annual Spring Work Day at the Boys and Girls Clubs Gates Camp.  It was a great day, despite heavy rain showers in the mountains.  The volunteers met at the Broomfield Park and Ride for a light breakfast and car pooled up to the camp.  About ten of the camp counselors volunteered their time as well.  Tyler Edmonson is the camp’s director and is always eager to have us come up because we are the final push needed to get the camp ready for the campers coming this summer.

We did prep work to get the camp ready for opening the following week, so the Boys and Girls Clubs really count on us to lend some elbow grease to the projects.  There are always a variety of jobs to choose from, this year there were things such as, putting up the large outdoor tents, staining the barn, setting up the archery targets and area, lining trails with cut posts and constructing a stepping post course.

NAIOP Rallies, Despite the Weather and Economy

Submitted by Ken Whitelam, Golf Committee Chair and Senior VP, Colorado Capital Bank 

The 2009 NAIOP Classic Golf Tournament was held on June 1st, despite Mother Nature’s efforts to ruin the fun. After many enjoyable years at the Inverness Country Club and Golf Course, this year’s tournament was held at Valley Country Club in Aurora.  Over 120 players “Rallied at the Valley” for tournament play and competed in various contests, including a marshmallow putting challenge hosted by First American Title Insurance Company.  Play finished in less than six hours, which is remarkable, considering participants were pulled off the course for lightening at one point.

DL Mentor Program Thrives in Tough Economy

Submitted by Doris Rigoni, Mentor Program Chair and Assistant Vice President, Chicago Title

Unlike the economy, the NAIOP Colorado Developing Leader (DL) Mentoring Program is thriving in the beginning of its third year.  From its inception in 2007, the Mentoring program has seen an increase in applicants each year and more involvement from industry mentors. 

The DL Mentoring Program was designed to match the Developing Leaders members, those individuals 35 years of age and under, with more experienced real estate professionals who have been in the industry for ten plus years.  To date, the program has had over 75 Mentee participants and demand continues to grow each year.  Applicants are selected through an application and interview process.  The Mentor/Mentee match is then made by understanding applicants goals and by specific Mentor requests through a selection committee.   Below are some testimonials from previous year participants:

“I was part of the 2007-2008 Mentoring Program.  In addition to obtaining very beneficial career advice and gaining a friendship, my mentorship had an unanticipated immediate positive impact on my career; it directly led to a job “opportunity” – Dan Metzger, Divided Capital Trust, 2007 Participant

“The mentor program offers young professionals a unique and valuable opportunity to network and develop a relationship with a leader in the commercial real estate industry.  I have found the program to be very beneficial with career goals, market intel, specific deal issues, and developing a trusting relationship that I can rely on in the future.  Additionally, the mentor program has provided me with the opportunity to meet not only with my mentor but other leaders in the commercial real estate industry” – Ben Kuruvila, U.S. Bank, 2007/2008 Participant

“The mentor program has been extremely beneficial for me, and applying to the program was one of the best decisions I made as a Developing Leader in NAIOP.  The program allowed me the opportunity to have access to an industry professional who has been instrumental in offering advice and perspective on my specific niche in the real estate industry. Our industry leaders volunteer their time and energy to committing to helping someone in the early stages of their career. That is a huge commitment on the part of the mentors and NAIOP and I encourage other DL members to take advantage of the opportunity” – Sara Croot, Compass Bank, 2008 Participant

“The NAIOP mentoring program is something all Developing Leaders should strongly consider.  It allows you to tap into industry leaders who have experienced all facets of the commercial real estate industry on a more personal level.  The one-on-one relationship allows for a stronger understanding and a platform to ask any type of question; from career advice to specific transaction knowledge to helping facilitate new introductions.  It is a great program that proves to get better every year” – Doris Rigoni, Chicago Title of Colorado, 2007 Participant

Mentor and Mentee Applications are now being accepted for the 2009-2010 DL Mentor Program.  Deadline for applications is June 12th.  For more information, please visit the Developing Leaders page of the NAIOP Colorado website at www.naiop-colorado.org.

 

Going Green to Find Gold in Your Existing Building Series

Submitted by Tom Coalson, LEED-AP, PMP 

On  Wednesday, May 20th, the NAIOP Green Series Education Committee kicked off this year’s Sustainability Series  “Going Green to Find Gold in Your Existing Building.” This 5-part breakfast series is designed for building owners, property managers, real estate professionals, developers and others who want to build on last year’s green series with additional, pertinent and to-the-point subject matter on the particulars of “greening up” an existing building.

The premier session, “Improving the Asset,” was put together by Tom Coalson, formerly of C&A Companies and Karen Van Heukelem of Colorado Hardscapes. Session One provided specific details for taking the first steps necessary to proceed with a sustainable upgrade to an existing building.

The first guest speaker was Steve Alschuler of Beaudin Ganze Consulting Engineers. Steve not only holds an MBA from the University of New Mexico, but is a registered P.E. and an accredited LEED-AP as well. His 30-minute presentation dealt with, among other items, the real value and practical benefits of an energy audit, where to start, how to select the right help for conducting the audit and what the deliverables should be.

Developing Leaders Tour 1800 Larimer

Submitted by Brad Sicard, AECOM

On Thursday, May 14, the Developing Leaders (DL) Group held their second annual DL Project Tour. This year’s tour was held at Westfield Company’s 1800 Larimer in downtown Denver. When completed, 1800 Larimer will be Denver’s first LEED Platinum office tower. Attendees were provided with safety equipment courtesy of Construction building services, Kiewit Building Group, Pinkard Construction Company, and Mortenson Construction. Participants were given a safety briefing and split into four groups. Each group toured the project site with members of the design and construction team including RNL Design, SRI, and Mortenson Construction. The tour focused on the unique challenges faced by the design and construction team as a result of the building location, complex design, and LEED accreditation requirements as well as the innovative solutions that the team used to overcome those challenges. The developing leaders were enthusiastic to learn about the design-build process and asked many questions of the project team. Touring the project site at such an early stage in construction was a rare opportunity for the DL members. The project team worked very hard to allow the DL members to access the structure without interrupting the construction schedule.

NAIOP 12th Annual Boys & Girls Club’s Spring Work Day

Submitted by Mark Cheeks, Ware Malcomb

Each year, the Colorado Chapter of NAIOP supports the Boys and Girls Clubs of Denver by spending a day prepping the Gates Camp.  Gates Camp is a beautiful 80-acre camp in the Indian Peaks Wilderness area that was developed for and continues to provide a wilderness experience for inner-city children for a minimal fee.

Saturday, May 30, 2009 will be the twelfth annual Spring Work Day for NAIOP.  It will be a great day.  The volunteers meet at the Broomfield Park and Ride for a light breakfast and we will car pool up to the camp.  About ten of the camp counselors volunteer their time as well.  Tyler Edmonson is the camp’s director and is eager to have us come up because we are the final push needed to get the camp ready for the campers coming this summer.

We do all the prep work to get the camp ready for opening the following week, so the Boys and Girls Clubs really count on us to lend some elbow grease to the projects.  There are always a variety of jobs to choose from, last years there were things such as cleaning up the cabins, putting up the large outdoor tents, clearing out cut or fallen branches, digging post holes and setting posts, and staining a cabin.

The camp depends on this group of volunteers each year.  The one day of work that the volunteers give the camp is like having 15 people spend a 40-hour week on the multiple projects.  While the work is the primary focus, other added bonuses are: networking in an unconventional setting up in the mountains, enjoying a beautiful day, the drive back and forth is a beautiful ride and the food and the drinks taste that much better after a hard day’s work.

This year we will have the abbreviated version of the day again; leaving at 7:30 and returning to Denver by 2:30.  The more hands we have there are the more we can get done for them.  It will be a rewarding day as usual and it just makes you feel good to know you are helping to make the experience better for the 600 campers that will stay there throughout the summer.  We look forward to seeing all the volunteers this year.  As the camp cheer goes: Heepwah!

For more information or to register, click here http://www.naiop-colorado.org/pdfs/ev09_workday.pdf.

 

Renewable Energy: A Bright Spot in Colorado’s Economy

Submitted by:  Kathryn G. Spritzer, City and County of Denver Asset Manager 

On April 14, 2009, NAIOP Colorado’s breakfast meeting featured a panel of speakers discussing Renewable Energy.  The program moderator, reporter Steve Raabe of The Denver Post introduced the renewable energy experts on the panel to over 250 attendees at the Downtown Marriott City Center.  The program was designed to give the audience an overview of the renewable energy industry in Colorado, and discuss the impact of the new energy economy from a real estate perspective.

Doug Arent, Director of Strategic Energy Analysis, of the National Renewable Energy Lab (NREL) gave the audience an overview of NREL’s impact on our economy.  Mr. Arent joked that NREL’s slogan could be “30 years to overnight success”, as NREL has been present here for 30 years but only recently has had a significant impact on the economy.  This year, for example, NREL has a robust budget and plans to add 300-400 jobs, despite the slow economy.  Steve Raabe noted that companies locating in Colorado often cite NREL as an influence for coming here.  Mr. Arent pointed out that all types of renewables have shown exponential growth over the past 7 years.  However, he went on to say that renewable energy still represents only a small fraction (6%) of energy usage in the U.S. (compared to 13% worldwide).  This figure is expected to grow modestly to 9% (14% worldwide) by the year 2030.  In addition, developers of real estate who build or retrofit to “green” standards will be better able to attract tenants and lower operating expenses.  In many cases, payback periods are very fast and fixing what you have can make a bigger impact than building new.  And for more bang-for-the-buck, many states provide lucrative incentives for developing renewable energy resources.  For a comprehensive listing, Mr. Arent recommends visiting the Database of State Incentives for Renewable Energy (DSIRE).  Click Here to view Mr. Arent’s presentation.

Rick Gilliam, Director of Western States Policy for SunEdison, a solar energy firm who has developed an 8.2 megawatt photovoltaic solar energy facility in Colorado’s San Luis Valley, spoke next.  Mr. Gilliam noted that SunEdison sells energy back to the grid and provides power for users including Whole Foods, Staples, WalMart and Kohl’s.  He stated that buying land for photovoltaic facilities can be very complex, with buyers needing to consider not only land cost, but property taxes, neighboring landowners' concerns, nearby uses and transmission concerns.  Later in the program, Mr. Gilliam addressed the economic benefits of solar in terms of job creation:  the development and installation process employs 15 to 30 people per megawatt, but there is little work once the facility is up and running.  For this reason, he noted that SunEdison subcontracts their services for one-off smaller installations in between major developments.
Nick Lenssen, Senior Specialist in Market Intelligence for Vestas-American Wind Technology, Inc. gave a brief overview of Vestas.  A Danish company, Vestas is the world's largest producer of wind turbines.  Vestas has a large wind turbine blade plant located in Windsor, Colorado, and is planning the world's largest wind tower factory in Pueblo.  He expects that at full build out, Vestas will employ 2,500 people in Colorado.  Mr. Lenssen noted that Vestas chose to locate in Colorado because of the state's central location, making it easy to ship parts up and down through the "wind belt".  When asked who the competitors are in wind turbine development, Mr. Lenssen cited GE, Mitsubishi, and Siemens.  He noted that most of these competitors produce wind turbines overseas and while none of them currently have plans for Colorado facilities, there is increased interest in expanding into North America.

NAIOP now offers use of "Member of" Logo

Members can now use the NAIOP “Member of” logo to identify that you are a member of NAIOP.  Use it on your email, your LinkedIn profile, anywhere to identify that you are a member of NAIOP, the Commercial Real Estate Development Association.  You will be required to adhere to the NAIOP usage guidelines.  If you are interested, please email Kathryn Hamilton at hamilton@naiop.org and she will send you the logo and usage agreement.

Developing Leaders’ 2nd Annual Dinner With The Icons Lifts Spirits

Submitted by T.J. Johnson, Fuller and Company

On February 25th, the Developing Leaders held their hugely successful “Dinner with the Icons” event at The Magnolia Ballroom for the second consecutive year.  Icons from the development, brokerage, legislative, banking, legal and architectural communities were on hand to share insight and offer guidance to over 80 attendees that came out for the event.  The event was offered almost exclusively to Developing Leader membership and then opened to the broader NAIOP Colorado community and included a three course dinner, cocktails and access to some of brightest industry minds in a round table format.

Mindy Humphrey, who chaired this year’s event, remarked that the great turnout in spite of the turbulent economy was a testament to the quality of Icon panelists this year and the past success of the event.  Jason Newcomer, 2009 co-chair of the Developing Leaders committee, was master of ceremonies and helped orchestrate as tables of 6-8 recipients spent time posing questions to each Icon.  After 15-20 minutes,  each Icon would move on to another table in succession to face a new set of questions and concerns about ways to navigate through these uncertain times.

If you are interested in Developing Leader involvement or have questions about our program, please contact Jason Newcomer at Jason@urbanvillages.com or Sara Croot at Sara.Croot@compassbank.com.

Awards handed out at NAIOP Annual Luncheon

The NAIOP Annual Awards of Achievement Luncheon was held on February 19^th.  The event was hosted by 2009 Chapter President, Craig Poulter, Managing Director at The PrivateBank.  Among special guests present was Tom Bisacquino, NAIOP Corporate President.  Tom spoke briefly to the group about the organization as a whole and how our role as 4^th largest chapter nationally fits into that picture.  Legislator of the Year, Representative Joe Rice spoke about the importance of the role NAIOP Colorado plays down at the legislature working on behalf of our members’ interests.  Special recognition was given to Presidents Award Winner, John Freyer, Land Title Guarantee Company.  The NAIOP Colorado Chapter also recongnized the following winners in the listed categories:

Mixed Use Development of the Year – 1400 Wewatta, Opus Northwest, LLC

Office Development of the Year – Lincoln Station, Westfield Development Company, Inc.

Development of the Year – 1001 17th Street, Miller Global Properties, LLC

Special Development of the Year – Brighton Learning & Resource Campus, Community Reach Center Foundation & Brighton Urban Renewal Authority

Owner/Developer of the Year – Opus Northwest, LLC

Retail Broker of the Year – Jonathan Weisiger, CB Richard Ellis, Inc.

Land Broker of the Year – Stew Mosko, Fuller Real Estate

Industrial Broker of the Year – Jim Bolt & Mike Camp, CB Richard Ellis, Inc.

Office Broker of the Year – Barry Dorfman, Jones Lang LaSalle

Investment Broker of the Year – Michael Winn & Timothy Richey, Cushman & Wakefield of Colorado, Inc.

Broker Outstanding Achievement Award – Kenneth Egan, Fuller Real Estate

Member of the Year – John Logan, Laff Campbell Tucker & Gordon, LLP

DL Member of the Year – Jason Newcomer

Award of Excellence – John Ellis, Security Title Guaranty Company

Click on the link below to see pictures from the event.

And They’re Off…!

The 7th annual NAIOP Rocky Mountain Real Estate Challenge began with a bang as 80 people packed the Solterra Community Center, The Retreat, in Lakewood for the formal kickoff to this year’s challenge.

The Challenge pits the best and brightest from the University of Colorado and the University of Denver against each other in a high profile competition for the rights to the coveted NAIOP Cup. This year’s site is sure to prove challenging and rewarding as students scramble to present their development visions for Carma’s 194-acre Solterra Centre located at C-470 and Alameda.

More than 30 students attended the kickoff event where they were introduced to their assigned architectural resources and were given inspiring words of wisdom from Guy Arnold, the Challenge Chair, prior to embarking on what is sure to be a rewarding and formative experience over the next four months.

Students waited suspensfully as the NAIOP coin was tossed into the air - ultimately landing in DU’s favor; DU Professor Jeff Engelstad chose to have DU present first before the judges and the crowd on the big day. We hope you’ll join us on May 6th in honoring the students’ hard work and seeing what the industry’s future leaders have to say about a project that is sure to define Denver’s Western Submarket!

This year’s architectural resources are as follows:

4240 Architecture
OZ Architecture Boulder
CLC Associates, Inc.
Gensler
dtj Design

Watch for registration information to arrive in the mail late next week or check our website for updates at www.naiop-colorado.org. 

NAIOP Colorado takes university pilot program to DU

Submitted by Jill Jamieson-Nichols, Colorado Real Estate Journal

After launching its Careers in Commercial Real Estate pilot program in November, NAIOP Colorado took the program to the University of Denver the afternoon of Jan. 21.

NAIOP Colorado teamed up with the University of Denver Real Estate and Construction Management Club to present the program to 23 DU students, offering roundtable discussions on commercial real estate development, architecture, ownership, brokerage, finance and entitlement/due diligence.

Most student participants who responded to a survey about the event said it helped them decide in which area to focus their career, and all said they would recommend it to other students.

Questions revolved around the instability of the credit market and career searches.  One industry professional urged DU students to “network like crazy” and focus more on getting started in the industry than on a specific role. 

MacKenzie House served as the development partner for the event, providing insight into the process of developing its Asbury Green student housing project, including hurdles that had to be overcome – like removal of 12 inches of soil from the site. The 171-unit, 350-bed LEED Silver development is under construction near the campus at East Asbury Avenue and Josephine Street.

The Careers in Commercial Real Estate program is part of a NAIOP Colorado effort to reach out to Colorado university students as they look forward to beginning careers in commercial real estate. The program provides students with the opportunity to explore the commercial real estate industry through interactive dialog. The roundtable discussions are led by veteran commercial real estate professionals and members of the Developing Leaders program.

Helping make the DU program a success were: Pete Tobin, Charlie Davis, Frank Kelley, T.J. Johnson, Todd Grover, Sara Croot, Greg Kelly, J.D. Praeger, Patty Gage and Tim Yeager.

Check out the Student Participants’ Resumes:  Click Here

NAIOP Colorado’s 2009 Annual Economic Forecast

Submitted by:  Martha S. Nachman, Esq./Ballard Spahr Andrews & Ingersoll, LLP

On January 13, 2009, NAIOP Colorado kicked off its 2009 program series with its traditional January presentation of the Annual Economic Forecast for the forthcoming year.  The program moderator, Charles E. (Chuck) Sullivan, the Managing Director of ProLogis, Inc.’s operations in North America, introduced the outstanding panel of three economists to the more than 350 attendees at the Downtown Marriott City Center.  The program was designed first to provide perspective on the forces creating turbulence in the global and national economies, then an analysis of how these forces have been and are expected to affect Colorado’s economy and real estate in 2009.

The first speaker was Mike Englund, Principal Director and Chief Economist of Action Economics, LLC, the premier provider of real time commentary and analysis for trading room professionals in the global bond and currency markets.  Dr. Englund’s extensive power point slides illustrated the unprecedented collapse in asset and liability values, the spectacular spending declines by consumers since September 2008, the gyrations in market interest rate yields, and the gap in U.S. Treasury receipts and outlays expected under the Obama administration in 2009 and 2010.  Dr. Englund cogently explained that the United States real estate reversal was the “canary in the coal mine,” and the true forces affecting world economies and asset values was global deleveraging and the reassessment and repricing of portfolio risk.  He further explained that, despite the large and swift U.S. policy response relative to past downturns, the cumulative effects of the unwillingness of consumers and businesses to spend, the reluctance of investors and banks to commit to new transactions, and the increasing market yields despite monetary easing by U.S. and other governments, could dwarf governmental policy responses to the global economic crisis in the near future.

Patricia Silverstein, President of Development Research Partners, a real estate analysis and economic development research company, who also serves as the consulting chief economist for the Metro Denver Economic Development Corp. and the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce, spoke next.  Ms. Silverstein’s graphs clearly demonstrated Colorado has been faring better than the U.S. as a whole, a trend she expects to continue in 2009.  She believes Colorado will continue to experience job loss and unemployment rates that will be less severe than for the nation as a whole and that the state will have more stable retail sales and home prices.  Ms. Silverstein also anticipates that Colorado should see a decline in residential foreclosures and that metro Denver should experience a slight recovery in home prices in 2009.  In her conclusion, Ms. Silverstein predicted lenders will return to more sound financial underwriting practices, households will reassess spending priorities, and state and local governments will face challenges due to declining sales and property tax revenues.

The final speaker, Tom Thibodeau, is the Global Real Estate and Capital Markets professor at the University of Colorado Leeds School of Business.  Professor Thibodeau’s data confirmed the relative stability of home prices in the Denver metropolitan area compared to numerous other cities.  Professor Thibodeau also presented a wealth of statistical information regarding interest rates that demonstrated U.S. Treasury interest rate decreases are not flowing through on jumbo mortgages or to commercial borrowers.  In his analysis regarding commercial properties, Professor Thibodeau’s charts showed recent declines in the number of Denver area sale transactions for apartment, office, industrial and retail properties, as well as declines in the average per unit price of apartment properties and per square foot price in Denver office and industrial properties.  Professor Thibodeau predicted that in 2009, cap rates will increase to 7.5 to 8.5%, commercial loan delinquency rates will increase to above 6%, and spreads on commercial loans will remain high.

In the brief question and answer period that followed their presentations, the speakers agreed that risk revulsion and the hoarding of cash were exacerbating the downturn, governmental responses could improve consumer confidence levels, and a return of consumer confidence would be a key component of the recovery.

Click here to access the speakers slide presentations.