The final quarter of 2013 continued to show positive retail market results. The sector saw drops in vacancy, gains in properties sold and demand for retail space increase throughout the fourth quarter. With small amounts of new construction in the works, retail market fundamentals are still geared for strong continued growth in leasing velocity, absorption and rental rates.

During the final quarter of 2013, vacancy fell to 10.4% from 10.6% in the third quarter, which is the lowest rate seen since the first quarter of 2009. With unemployment continuing to fall, there is promise for those in the work force, and in turn, consumerism for the retail market. For the calendar 2013 year, vacancy percentages were at 10.8%, a decrease from last year’s vacancy rate at 11.3%, indicating an upswing in occupancy for retail space.

Read more in the full report by clicking the image below: