Realmark Commercial has hosted its first-ever Commercial Real Estate Symposium, bringing together industry stakeholders to explore the key forces shaping WA’s investment landscape.
With global share markets showing volatility, many attendees pointed to the stability of bricks-and-mortar assets as a reliable investment class. The consensus? Commercial property continues to offer long-term security and performance in an uncertain economic climate.
Retail development was a clear focus, with strong activity across suburban centres and fast-food precincts. Realmark has become WA’s leading retail projects leasing team, actively involved in key developments from Phoenix and Bullsbrook to Anketell, Treeby and Ocean Reef, as well as interstate in Parafield in South Australia.
Senior Retail Sales and Leasing Consultant, Fletcher Wolpers, relayed to the group that growth from fast food, service retail and fuel operators showed no signs of slowing.
Industrial assets also dominated the conversation. Leasing activity has moderated slightly, but demand remains high - particularly for mid-size warehousing and crane-equipped workshops, which are in critically short supply.
Rob Dawson, Director of Industrial Sales and Leasing, highlighted the significant volume of industrial transactions the team is currently managing, driven by both east coast investors and local owner-occupiers.
Realmark’s industrial division continues to be one of the most active sales teams in WA, consistently transacting across a broad range of asset classes and price points.
“We’re seeing a very active segment of the market where investors and business owners are directly competing for high-quality assets, which is putting upward pressure on capital values,” Mr Dawson said.
“East coast buyers, in particular, are chasing the stronger returns available here in WA.”
The suburban office market has also caught investors’ attention, with vacancy rates halving as more workers choose to base themselves closer to home.
Justin Baker, Director of Capital Transactions at Realmark, advised that vacancies in the inner suburban office markets of Subiaco and Leederville had reduced by 50% over the past two years, underscoring a broader shift in tenant preference.
Fully fitted offices in these locations are outperforming, while areas with weaker connectivity - such as East Perth - continue to face headwinds.
Across all sectors, the symposium offered a rare opportunity for open discussion, practical insights, and shared perspectives on what’s driving performance and where the next moves may lie.
Wayne Chorley, Executive Director of Commercial Agency at Realmark Commercial, said the event was designed to create clarity and connection across the sector.
“There’s a real appetite for straightforward insights and forward-looking strategy,” Mr Chorley said.
“The level of engagement on the day really confirmed just how active and opportunity-rich this market is for investors right now.”
With WA’s economy continuing on a steady path, Realmark Commercial is well positioned to help investors, developers, and owner-occupiers identify and act on their next strategic move.
Contact Realmark Commercial on 08 9328 0999 to find out how you can benefit.