International Newscenter

Canada showed strong occupier demand and rental expectations in 4Q11, a trend that is expected to continue through 1Q12, according to the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors’ Americas Commercial Property Survey, which combines data from the office, retail, and industrial sectors. Brazil also closed 2011 with a strong quarter, though transaction expectations began to decline in 1Q12.

Canada’s development pipeline posted its highest value since the survey began, possibly as a response to the strong occupier demand. Commercial propriety availability closed the year in negative territory, and rent expectations shot up to a net balance of 47 percent in 4Q11, providing developers an additional incentive to fill the pipeline.

In Brazil, occupier demand, rent expectations, and development starts all moderated in 4Q11 but still remained in positive territory. Investors have a favorable view of Brazil, which helped keep capital value expectations positive.

Investment enquiries in the U.S. reached a net balance of 43 percent in 4Q11, up from 23 percent in 3Q11. Rent expectations remained flat, and inducements dropped to a 7 percent net balance in 4Q11.