14-story waterfront residential tower proposed on Rocky Point
A Sarasota developer is proposing a 14-story residential tower on the water in Rocky Point — a site that’s sat dormant since previous plans crashed along with the real estate market. Ascentia Development Group has filed plans with the city for a tower adjacent to the Westin Tampa Bay at 3015 N. Rocky Point Drive, […]
Home sales dip despite low mortgage rates; are prices too high? (Video)
Sales of existing homes fell to an annual rate of 4.82 million in January, the lowest pace since last May. That’s according to the National Association of Realtors, which reports that the Northeast and West saw the biggest declines in sales activity. January’s sales pace was down from 5.07 million in December. “January housing data […]
USAA CEO to retire by end of February
USAA President and CEO Joe Robles Jr. will step down from his current roles on Feb. 28, the San Antonio-based financial services company confirmed. His successor, Stuart Parker, will take the reins as the new CEO on March 1. Retired Army Major Gen. Robles played an instrumental role in expanding USAA’s membership eligibility during his […]
Potential Office Depot/Staples closings couldn’t come at a better time for Tampa Bay retailers
If federal regulators approve Staples’ $6.3 billion deal to buy Office Depot, it will likely mean a number of those stores will go dark — and that could be a good thing for Tampa Bay retailers. The retail real estate market in Tampa Bay is extremely tight, with less than 6 percent vacancy in any […]
Banks see mostly favorable conditions for Tampa Bay
Both BMO Capital Markets and The PNC Financial Services Group have issued fairly upbeat reports about the area’s economy. BMO projects Florida’s growth will exceed the national average this year, with strength in employment growth a “big positive” for job seekers, said Dave Maraman, Florida regional president-business banking, BMO Harris Bank. BMO said nonfarm payrolls […]
5 things to start the day: Ferry forward, crisis PR, and lounging at the Mall at UTC
Tampa Bay has always seemed perfect for a high-speed ferry line and Wednesday, the Hillsborough County Commission unanimously recommended forging ahead. The initial plan is to connect south Hillsborough County with commuters to MacDill Air Force Base. The idea is to start with that route in order to test demand. While the plan has won […]