The scent of freshly brewed coffee hung in the air at Colliers’ New Hampshire offices last week, but the usual Monday morning hum was overlaid with a current of genuine celebration. It wasn’t just another week of closing deals; it was a moment to publicly acknowledge the individuals driving a surprisingly robust commercial real estate market in a region often overshadowed by larger metropolitan areas. While national headlines focus on slowing growth and looming recessions, Colliers New Hampshire and Maine are painting a different picture, one built on local expertise and a relentless focus on client needs – and they’ve just handed out the awards to prove it. This isn’t simply a story about individual achievement; it’s a snapshot of a regional economy quietly defying the national narrative, and what that says about the evolving landscape of American commerce.
Beyond the Bricks and Mortar: A Regional Resilience
The awards themselves tell a story. David F. Choate, III took home the Top Producer Award, a testament to consistent performance, but it’s Bob Rohrer’s Deal of the Year Award that really underscores the current momentum. Rohrer secured a $12.4 million sale of a 60,000 square foot Class A office building in Lebanon, New Hampshire. That figure, while significant, isn’t a blockbuster on a national scale. However, in a market where office space vacancy rates are climbing in many major cities – hovering around 19.7% nationally as of Q1 2024 according to CBRE – a successful sale of this size speaks volumes about the continued demand for quality commercial property in the Granite State. It suggests businesses are still investing in physical presence, even as remote work becomes more prevalent, and that New Hampshire offers a compelling alternative to the higher costs and increased competition of larger urban centers.
Original reporting: unionleader.com.
The Most Valuable Player (MVP) Award, presented to Abby Bachman, managing broker of the Portsmouth office, highlights a crucial element often overlooked in these success stories: leadership. Bachman’s recognition isn’t just about closing deals, but about fostering a team environment and prioritizing client relationships. This emphasis on service is particularly important in a region where personal connections often drive business. The Acceleration Award, given to Cassandra Farley, signals a healthy influx of new talent and a commitment to developing the next generation of commercial real estate professionals. This isn’t a stagnant industry; it’s actively cultivating future leaders.
The Darlington DeStefano Award: Remembering Values in a Fast-Paced World
Perhaps the most poignant award was the Darlington DeStefano Inspiration Award, presented to Dan Scanlon. Named in memory of two former Colliers colleagues, the award recognizes integrity, dedication, and community involvement. In an industry often perceived as transactional, this award serves as a powerful reminder that success isn’t solely measured in dollars and square footage. Scanlon’s recognition underscores the importance of ethical conduct and giving back to the communities Colliers serves. It’s a deliberate counterpoint to the sometimes ruthless reputation of the commercial real estate world, and a signal that Colliers is actively prioritizing values alongside profits. This is especially relevant given the increased scrutiny of corporate social responsibility and the growing demand for businesses to demonstrate a commitment to ethical practices.
A Parallel to the National Employment Surge
The timing of these awards is also noteworthy. They were announced alongside news that US job growth accelerated in March, adding 303,000 jobs – the most in 15 months. While the national picture is complex, with ongoing concerns about inflation and interest rates, the Colliers awards and the positive employment data suggest a degree of economic resilience that’s often underestimated. The parallel isn’t accidental. Commercial real estate activity is a lagging indicator of economic health; businesses expand and invest in space after they’ve seen positive signs in their own performance. The activity in New Hampshire and Maine, as reflected in Colliers’ success, suggests that businesses in this region are optimistic about the future.
This isn’t to say the region is immune to broader economic challenges. The proposed privatization of TSA screening operations by Donald Trump, for example, could have ripple effects on travel and tourism, impacting businesses across New England. New ventures like Slightly Crooked Pies in Manchester and The Mallard in Londonderry represent local entrepreneurial spirit, but their success will depend on continued consumer spending and a stable economic climate. However, the Colliers awards demonstrate a proactive approach to navigating these uncertainties, focusing on building strong relationships, fostering local talent, and prioritizing community engagement.
What remains to be seen is whether this regional resilience can be sustained in the face of potential economic headwinds. Will Colliers New Hampshire and Maine continue to buck the national trend, or will they eventually succumb to the pressures impacting other parts of the country? The answer will likely depend on their ability to adapt to changing market conditions, maintain their commitment to client service, and continue to attract and develop top talent. The industry, and the region, will be watching closely.
