Canada’s office market has been through a lot, but it’s starting to feel like things are settling down. In some markets, signs of stability and optimism are emerging.
In this first episode of the CRE Talks Office podcast, Colliers research and brokerage experts are joined by Scott Gordon, head of asset management at Manulife Canada. Together, they discuss the current state of the asset class.
Eliezer Timolien, host and Colliers' office research lead, and Thomas Coutu and Jennica Palecek, both vice presidents within brokerage, explore with Gordon the bifurcation in office demand, assessing the interplay between trophy buildings and class-B and -C spaces. They also explore how Manulife is approaching and managing its office portfolio.
The conversation covers:
- the acceleration of the return-to-office movement and how it’s impacting demand in Canada’s major office markets;
- how the slowdown in new office development is helping stabilize vacancy and stoke the flight-to-quality trend;
- why improving the office experience and investing in quality amenities are musts in today’s market;
- how owners of class-B and -C buildings can make sure their assets remain relevant and competitive in their markets.
