Below you'll find our roundup of the best news and developments across the web, covering everything from real estate highlights to climate change, city developments, and urban planning.

Insights From SORTIS

Demographic Shift Rift or Gift?

Demographic changes like aging populations, urban migration, and evolving household types are reshaping real estate demand. Investors must adapt to these trends for strategic growth. Are you ready for the shift? Read More.

Fin Frontiers

US second-quarter economic growth revised higher on consumer spending

Growth Takes Flight, Profits in Sight—What's Driving the Surge?

The U.S. economy expanded at a 3% annualized rate in Q2, driven by strong consumer spending and a rebound in corporate profits. This upward revision from 2.8% suggests sustained growth momentum. Read More.

The American Dream Feels Out of Reach for Most

Dreams Deferred, Hopes in the Air—Can You Still Achieve the American Dream?

Americans yearn for the classic American dream—homeownership, financial security, and retirement ease—but fewer believe it's within reach. Rising costs and economic hurdles leave many wondering: Is the dream still achievable? Read More.

Real Estate Highlights

6 of Every 7 People With Mortgages Have an Interest Rate Below 6_, But the Lock-In Effect Is Starting to Ease

Locked and Blocked: Mortgage Rate Stalemate—Will Homeowners Wait?

A staggering 85.7% of U.S. homeowners have mortgage rates below 6%, causing many to stay put rather than sell, creating a shortage in home listings. Will falling rates break the lock-in effect? Read More.

10 U.S. housing markets where buyers have the most power right now_ They_re _in a good position to negotiate,_ expert says

Prices Down, Homes Around – Where's the Best Place to Buy Now?

Despite rising prices and fluctuating mortgage rates, some U.S. metro areas, especially in Florida and Texas, still favor buyers. Realtor.com's latest report highlights where buyers hold the upper hand, with Lubbock, Texas, leading the pack. Read More.

CRE Corner

More details emerge about plans to convert New York City’s Flatiron Building to residential use

Flatiron’s New Flair, A Residential Affair—What’s in the Air?

The iconic Flatiron Building is set for a residential makeover, with plans to convert its upper floors into 60 apartments. The shift reflects Manhattan's struggling office market, with construction slated for 2025. Curious about the details? Read More.

A $557 Billion Drop in Office Values Eclipses a Revival of Cities

Century City Shines, Downtown Declines – Is LA's Real Estate Future on the Line?

Century City thrives with new developments and wealth, while downtown LA struggles with vacancies and foreclosures. This stark contrast reveals deep divides in the US commercial real estate market's recovery post-pandemic. Read More.

Metropolitan Matters

_Apartment Construction to Break Record in 2024_ Which US Cities Will See the Most_

New Builds and Future Chills: Will Supply Decline?

RentCafe predicts a 15% drop in new apartment completions by 2025, hitting a 10-year low. Rising borrowing costs and shifting developer strategies may reshape the housing market’s trajectory. Can we meet the demand? Read More.

Designing Cooler Cities_ Lessons from Ancient Civilizations

Cool Streets, Heat Beats: Can Green Blocks Save Us from Heat Shocks?

Cities can cool themselves down with strategies from ancient Rome, Greek Isles, and Jefferson’s checkerboard design. By increasing green spaces and using cool materials, urban temperatures could drop significantly, reducing heat risks. How will your city adapt? Read More.

Climate Chronicles

When a Glacier Melts, What Does It Leave Behind_

Melting Might: Glacial Sights and Hidden Dights

In Iceland, a plaque honors Okjökull, a glacier lost to climate change. Melting glaciers reveal toxic methane, heavy metals, and ancient viruses, impacting ecosystems and cultures. Will more glaciers meet this fate? Read More.

‘Corn Sweat’ and Climate Change Bring Sweltering Weather to the Midwest

Heat Beats the Midwestern Streets: Is Humidity Here to Stay?

Extreme heat and high humidity are hitting the Midwest and mid-Atlantic, pushing temperatures into record-breaking highs. With moisture from crops and the Gulf, how sticky will it get this week? Read More.

Alternative Avenues

The new gold rush reflects the world’s deep worries

Golden Times: A Rush, A Crush, And Why Not?

Gold, once deemed outdated, is soaring with a record price as central banks and wealthy investors flock to it for safety amid global turmoil. Yet, mining remains challenging—will the rush last? Read More.

Why private credit_s _golden moment_ isn_t over yet

Golden Moment's Still Here: Private Credit's Cheer

Private credit remains robust despite market fluctuations. With strategic adaptations and enduring demand, it's not quite time to write off its potential. How is this sector still thriving against the odds? Read More.

Inspiration Alley

The Private-Equity Scion Buying Up America’s Trophy Homes

Metropoulos Moves, Historic Homes Grooves—Can His Charm Outshine the Price?

Private-equity heir Daren Metropoulos, known for historic property buys, just spent $148M on a Palm Beach estate. His family’s real estate legacy continues—will his new acquisition dazzle? Read More.

Have a Great Weekend!

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