Tuesday, December 15, 2009



Hanley Investment Group Sells Two Multi-Tenant Retail Strip Centers Totaling $6,050,000 for Westwood Financial
***
Los Angeles and Orange County Strip Centers Remain in High Demand

IRVINE, CALIF. - Hanley Investment Group Real Estate Advisors, one of the most dominant retail investment groups in the western United States and a market leader in the sale of retail properties, announced today that Hanley Investment Group represented the seller in the sale of two multi-tenant retail properties in Cypress and North Hollywood, Calif., for a total consideration of $6,050,000. The seller of both properties was Westwood Financial of Los Angeles, Calif.

Edward B. Hanley and Jeremy S. McChesney represented the seller in the sale of Cypress Plaza located at 5491 Ball Road in Cypress. Situated on 0.52 acres, the 7,966-square-foot multi-tenant strip center is positioned at the signalized intersection of Walker Street and Ball Road. The property was built in 1986, and was 71 percent occupied at the time of sale. The purchase price was $2,275,000, representing $286 per square foot. The buyer was a private investor, represented by YK Limited Partnership of St. Louis, Missouri.

"Compared to average historical sales prices, $286 per square foot for the sale of a building built in the 1980s, shows that the retail investment market is still very active in Orange County," said Jeremy McChesney, a vice president at Hanley Investment Group. "At 71 percent occupancy at the time of the sale, this transaction illustrates that investors are purchasing well-located retail property even with vacancy," adds McChesney.

Hanley represented the seller in the sale of a 7-Eleven anchored strip center located at 11341 Riverside Drive in North Hollywood. Positioned at the signalized intersection of Riverside Drive and Camarillo Street, the property is a 9,518-square-foot multi-tenant strip center situated on 0.45-acres. The center is anchored by 7-Eleven and consists of five local and regional tenants. The property was built in 1983, and was 84 percent occupied at the time of sale. The purchase price was $3,775,000, representing a 7.45 percent cap rate and $396 per square foot.

"The sale of these two properties in today's market is a testimony to the fact that well-located strip shopping centers in Los Angeles and Orange County are in high demand. Based on the number of offers we received, I feel that values may stabilize sooner than expected for this product type," said Edward B. Hanley, president of Hanley Investment Group.

The buyer was Tong Whee Chun of Tustin, Calif., represented by Jay Kim of ERA New Star Realty & Investment based in Rancho Cucamonga, Calif.

About Hanley Investment Group Real Estate Advisors
Built on a solid foundation of performance, integrity and dedication, Hanley Investment Group Real Estate Advisors is a boutique retail investment advisory firm with a two billion dollar transaction track record that is comprised of innovative specialists delivering unparalleled service and superior results that consistently exceed client expectations. Hanley Investment Group's expertise, commitment and unwavering focus of putting the client’s needs first have continued to set the company apart in the industry. Hanley Investment Group works closely with individual investors, developers, and institutional property owners in every facet of the transaction to insure that the highest value is achieved. Clients rely on Hanley Investment Group to be the most knowledgeable and trusted source for valuation services, market information and retail property acquisitions and dispositions. For more information, visit the Company's website at www.hanleyinvestment.com or call (949) 585-7610.
Hanley Investment Group Sells Single-Tenant Investment Occupied by One of the Hottest Retailers of the Year
* * *
Forever 21 Ground Lease Investment Sells for $5,200,000 in Calexico, California


IRVINE, CALIF. – Hanley Investment Group Real Estate Advisors, one of the most dominant retail investment groups in the western United States and a market leader in the sale of retail properties, announced today Carlos J. Lopez of Hanley Investment Group represented the seller in the sale of the fee-simple ownership in the land leased to a single-tenant building occupied by Forever 21 in Calexico, Calif. The purchase price was $5,200,000.

The property is located at 1113 Imperial Highway West in Calexico, Calif., situated within a neighborhood shopping center anchored by Food 4 Less and Rite Aid. Built in 2007, Forever 21 occupies a 78,780-square-foot building on a 5.76-acre parcel of land. The building is leased and owned by Macerich Crossroads Plaza Holdings, LLC and is operated by Macerich, one of the country’s largest owners, operators and developers of major retail properties. Forever 21, a retail apparel chain that operates over 400 stores in the United States and Canada, is a subtenant occupying the building.

“It was one of the most unique and challenging transactions I have ever worked on,” said Carlos Lopez, senior vice president at Hanley Investment Group. “The complexity came in clarifying the chain of ownership to prospective investors.”


“It was an ideal investment for the buyer who was looking to purchase a single-tenant investment with minimal management responsibilities,” adds Lopez. “The buyer fulfilled a 1031 exchange requirement with the all-cash purchase and was able to close earlier than originally agreed upon.”

The buyer, John Choi of Los Angeles, Calif., purchased the property to fulfill a 1031 exchange requirement. Choi was represented by Bryan Sung from Ace Realty in Artesia, Calif. The seller was Calexico Retail Associates LLC.

About Hanley Investment Group Real Estate Advisors
Built on a solid foundation of performance, integrity and dedication, Hanley Investment Group Real Estate Advisors is a boutique retail investment advisory firm with a two billion dollar transaction track record that is comprised of innovative specialists delivering unparalleled service and superior results that consistently exceed client expectations. Hanley Investment Group’s expertise, commitment and unwavering focus of putting the client’s needs first have continued to set the company apart in the industry. Hanley Investment Group works closely with individual investors, developers, and institutional property owners in every facet of the transaction to insure that the highest value is achieved. Clients rely on Hanley Investment Group to be the most knowledgeable and trusted source for valuation services, market information and retail property acquisitions and dispositions. For more information, visit the Company’s website at www.hanleyinvestment.com or call (949) 585-7610.

Tuesday, December 8, 2009



Hanley Investment Group Sells Multi-Tenant Retail Strip Center in Bellflower, CA for $2,106,000
* * *
All-Cash Buyer Pays 6.63% Cap Rate for Property in Dense In-Fill Location


IRVINE, CALIF. – Hanley Investment Group Real Estate Advisors, one of the most dominant retail investment groups in the western United States and a market leader in the sale of retail properties, announced today Kevin T. Fryman and Eric P. Wohl of Hanley Investment Group represented the buyer and seller in the sale of a multi-tenant retail strip center in Bellflower, Calif. The purchase price was $2,106,000, representing a 6.63 percent capitalization rate.

The 12,155-square-foot retail center, known as Bellflower Plaza, is located at 17141-17167 Bellflower Boulevard in Bellflower. Positioned at the on/off ramp to the 91 Freeway, the subject property is situated on a 0.66-acre lot and is located easily accessible from the 91, 105, 605 and 710 freeways. Built in 1980, Bellflower Plaza was 92 percent occupied at the time of sale.

“Despite current challenges in the economy, the sale of Bellflower Plaza is a prime example of the strong demand for well-located strip centers,” said Eric P. Wohl, a vice president at Hanley Investment Group. “There continues to be a consistent interest from investors in multi-tenant retail centers priced in the $1,000,000 to $3,000,000 range.”

“The buyer paid all cash for the property, which represents a very popular trend this year given today’s challenging financing market,” said Kevin T. Fryman, a vice president at Hanley Investment Group.

The buyer and seller are both private investors from Los Angeles, Calif.

About Hanley Investment Group Real Estate Advisors
Built on a solid foundation of performance, integrity and dedication, Hanley Investment Group Real Estate Advisors is a boutique retail investment advisory firm with a two billion dollar transaction track record that is comprised of innovative specialists delivering unparalleled service and superior results that consistently exceed client expectations. Hanley Investment Group’s expertise, commitment and unwavering focus of putting the client’s needs first have continued to set the company apart in the industry. Hanley Investment Group works closely with individual investors, developers, and institutional property owners in every facet of the transaction to insure that the highest value is achieved. Clients rely on Hanley Investment Group to be the most knowledgeable and trusted source for valuation services, market information and retail property acquisitions and dispositions. For more information, visit the Company’s website at www.hanleyinvestment.com or call (949) 585-7610.

Friday, November 20, 2009



KTGY-designed Homes for Habitat for Humanity of Orange County Celebrate Opening

IRVINE, CALIF. - Award-winning KTGY Group, Inc., Architecture and Planning, is pleased to announce the completion of its design of three single-family homes for Habitat for Humanity of Orange County at Yorba Linda Avenue and Park Avenue in Yorba Linda, Calif. Habitat for Humanity will unveil the three new homes at 4965 Park Avenue on Saturday, November 21, 2009. Registration and refreshments start at 9:30 a.m. and the program begins at 10:00 a.m. This is Habitat for Humanity of Orange County's first homes built in Yorba Linda.

One affordable Habitat home will be dedicated in a traditional Habitat ceremony. The keys to this home will be presented to the family who built the home and who will now purchase this home under the regular Habitat model. This will be Habitat's 135th home in Orange County. Two homes will be sold to moderate-income families who will secure their own financing under Habitat for Humanity of Orange County's new "Mixed-Income Model." Habitat's "Mixed-Income Model," which includes homes for low-income and moderate-income families within the same development, will provide more workforce housing for families in Orange County.

KTGY donated its architectural services as well as assisted in the construction of these craftsman-style homes in Yorba Linda on "Build Day." Earlier in the year, in recognition of KTGY's considerable contributions to Habitat for Humanity, KTGY was awarded Habitat for Humanity's 2009 Dream Builder Award at the organization's Fifth Annual "Doorways to the Future" gala awards dinner and auction. Habitat for Humanity of Orange County is dedicated to ending substandard housing and building strong communities in Orange County and the Dream Builder Award recognizes those companies that have made a substantial donation of time and resources to Habitat for Humanity of Orange County.

"Many thanks to Jill Williams, Tien Shen and their entire team from KTGY for designing such beautiful homes," said Mark Korando, senior vice president, Habitat for Humanity of Orange County. "We look forward to working with KTGY in the future to create more attractive, affordable homes for hard-working families in Orange County."

KTGY has been committed to working with Habitat for Humanity throughout northern and southern California. Recently, KTGY was called upon to develop the next series of homes for Habitat for Humanity in northern California, which will be going after LEED Platinum status. Last year, KTGY designed and assisted with the building of Habitat for Humanity of Orange County's four homes in Anaheim on East Julianna Street.

KTGY's team of experienced single-family architects are able to make the best use of all the available square footage on a small infill site to create attractive, very livable and comfortable homes that are in harmony with the neighborhood. "The land plan is as important as the exterior design," says Yorba Linda's project designer Jill Williams, AIA and principal with KTGY. "Also, it is important that the homes are not only of a high quality, but also take advantage of a certain simplicity in framing since Habitat for Humanity uses a volunteer workforce."

Williams adds, "These three homes in Yorba Linda carry on the beautiful, historic precedent of this great neighborhood with sitting porches, two-car garages turned to the rear and accessed from a private drive, and a material palette that is reminiscent of the era with shingles and clapboard siding."

As part of Habitat for Humanity of Orange County's "mixed-income model," two of the three-bedroom homes will house a family earning up to 120 percent of the area median income ($100,900 for a family of four) and one for a family earning 50 percent of the area median income ($46,500 for a family of four). Habitat families are required to provide 500 hours of "sweat equity" to help build their own home, assist another Habitat family build a home, or work in some other part of the Habitat organization.

"It is exciting to help end substandard housing and provide hardworking families with an opportunity to share in the American Dream of homeownership," William adds. KTGY has considerable experience designing market rate housing as well as affordable and workforce housing working with leading non-profit housing developers like Jamboree Housing, BRIDGE Housing and South County Housing Corporation. Earlier this year, KTGY celebrated the grand opening of Jamboree Housing Corporation’s Diamond Apartment Homes in Anaheim, a pioneering green multifamily development that provides both housing and mental health supportive services for previously homeless individuals and their families in Orange County. In addition to Diamond Apartment Homes, KTGY has designed and completed several other affordable apartment communities for Jamboree Housing including Monarch Pointe Apartment Homes in Anaheim, Ceres Court Apartment Homes in Fontana, and Granite Court in Irvine.

"What a great way to participate in building communities of hope, dignity and self-worth through the construction of quality, affordable housing," says Tricia Esser, KTGY's CEO. "Today, corporate social responsibility goes far beyond the old philanthropy of the past - donating money to good causes at the end of the financial year - and is instead an all year round responsibility that companies must accept for the environment around them, for the best working practices, and for their engagement with the local and world communities. We at KTGY are sincerely dedicated to making a difference in the communities where we work, live, play and design."

KTGY is also an active supporter of HomeAid, the charitable arm of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB). Currently, KTGY has a project under construction in northern California for the developmentally disabled. This project, located in Hayward, is a joint venture between HomeAid of Northern California and Emerald Glen Homes in the site development and construction of five six-bedroom homes. Emerald Glen is a not-for-profit organization committed to providing quality homes and special support to the adult and aging developmentally disabled population of Alameda County and Hayward.

About Habitat for Humanity of Orange County
Habitat for Humanity of Orange County, headquartered in Santa Ana, CA, is dedicated to ending substandard housing and building strong communities in Orange County. Habitat uses non-government donations of funding, materials, professional services and volunteer labor to build simple, decent homes which are sold to qualified low-income families for a 1% down payment, closing costs, and a zero-interest mortgage. Mortgage payments are recycled to build more Habitat homes. Habitat families contribute 500 hours of "sweat equity" to the program by building their own home, helping another Habitat family build a home, or working in some other area of the Habitat organization. Habitat for Humanity families and volunteers have built 134 homes in Orange County since 1988, and are currently building five homes in San Juan Capistrano, three homes in Yorba Linda, two homes in Fullerton and two homes in Westminster. For more information, see
www.habitatoc.org.

About KTGY Group, Inc.
Established in 1991, KTGY Group, Inc., Architecture and Planning, provides comprehensive planning and award-winning architectural design services for residential communities, retail, hospitality, mixed-use and related specialty developments. KTGY delivers innovative solutions that reflect clear understanding of development, marketing and financial performance and takes particular pride in its highly motivated and principal led studios. Serving clients worldwide, KTGY maintains offices in Irvine, Oakland, Santa Monica, and in Denver. See
www.ktgy.com.

Friday, November 13, 2009

Hanley Investment (HI) Urban Retail Advisors Sells High-Profile Street-Front Retail in Downtown San Pedro
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Ground-Floor Retail Component of 116-Unit Loft Building Sells to International Longshore & Warehouse Union Local 13 as Owner/User


IRVINE, CALIF. - Hanley Investment (HI) Urban Retail Advisors, a division of Hanley Investment Group Real Estate Advisors specializing in the sale and advisory of high profile mixed-use and urban retail properties in dynamic commercial districts across the United States, announced today that Carlos J. Lopez, president of HI Urban Retail Advisors, represented the seller in the sale of an 18,864-square-foot ground-floor retail component of a 116-unit residential condominium building in downtown San Pedro, Calif. The price could not be disclosed.

The project, referred to as the Centre Street Lofts, is located at 285 W. 6th Street in San Pedro. Positioned within downtown San Pedro along Centre Street between 6th Street and 7th Street, the five-story building was built in 2007 and features underground parking to serve both commercial and residential uses. Nearly all of the 116 residential condominiums have been successfully sold. The ground-floor retail portion of the project was 18 percent occupied at the time of sale allowing the buyer, International Longshore & Warehouse Union Local 13, to acquire the project in order to occupy the building as their corporate headquarters.

"The transaction represents some growing trends specific to today's marketplace in regard to the sale of retail/commercial portions of mixed-use developments," says Carlos J. Lopez, president of HI Urban Retail Advisors. "Developers of these types of projects are now seeking further profits in addition to residential condominium sales, or in some cases the sales proceeds are being used to pay down debt obligations depending on the overall development's success."

Lopez continues, "Although the Centre Street Lofts has nearly sold all of the 116 residential units at the project, other mixed-use developments in the marketplace have been severely impacted by a decrease in sales proceeds from residential condominium sales. Some developers that originally had intended to maintain ownership of the retail/commercial portion of the development are now taking a closer look at selling this component," Lopez notes.

"Private banking sources and a favorable SBA financing market has enabled business owners this year the ability to acquire these types of owner/user opportunities that traditionally they might have been unable to purchase in the past," adds Lopez. "Slower absorption in the leasing of ground floor commercial/retail space and a continued downward pressure on values of commercial real estate in general have also been significant reasons why we are seeing more owner/user type purchases."

The buyer, International Longshore & Warehouse Union Local 13, was represented by Joel Mostert of The Heger Company in Los Angeles, CA. The seller was Centre Street Lofts, LLC from Hollywood, CA.

HI Urban Retail Advisors has recently successfully sold other high-profile mixed-use and urban retail properties in several well-located commercial districts including: West Los Angeles, Downtown Scottsdale and Downtown Long Beach.

About HI Urban Retail Advisors
HI Urban Retail Advisors is a retail investment division of Hanley Investment Group Real Estate Advisors specializing in the sale and advisory of high profile mixed-use and urban retail properties in dynamic commercial districts across the United States. Built on unsurpassed dedication and an impressive track record of performance and results, HI Urban Retail Advisors consistently exceeds client expectations through its unparalleled, comprehensive knowledge of urban retail from a national and global perspective.

Whether it is situated in a well-located, dynamic commercial district, or in conjunction with a mixed-use project, urban retail is a very specific product type within the overall retail marketplace. HI Urban Retail Advisors guides clients in attaining the highest returns through its exceptional experience and responsive team that thoroughly comprehends this unique and growing market segment. HI Urban Retail Advisors utilizes its innovative expertise to lead property owners through complex issues relating to land use and the progressive revitalization of high density urban areas to effectively help clients understand the significant characteristics of each urban retail asset and its optimum positioning and value.

HI Urban Retail Advisors works closely with investors to develop and maintain long-term relationships and has successfully accumulated a highly targeted database of mixed-use and urban retail property investors and owners from every major urban market in the country that is unmatched in the industry. HI Urban Retail Advisors' concentrated expertise and exclusive focus on mixed-use and urban retail properties translate into measurable results and is the reason that clients rely on HI Urban Retail Advisors to be the most dependable source for valuation services, market information and urban retail investment sales. For more information, visit the Company's website at www.hiurbanretail.com
or call (949) 585-7610.

About Hanley Investment Group Real Estate Advisors
Built on a solid foundation of performance, integrity and dedication, Hanley Investment Group Real Estate Advisors is a boutique retail investment advisory firm with a two billion dollar transaction track record that is comprised of innovative specialists delivering unparalleled service and superior results that consistently exceed client expectations. Hanley Investment Group's expertise, commitment and unwavering focus of putting the client's needs first have continued to set the company apart in the industry. Hanley Investment Group works closely with individual investors, developers, and institutional property owners in every facet of the transaction to insure that the highest value is achieved. Clients rely on Hanley Investment Group to be the most knowledgeable and trusted source for valuation services, market information and retail property acquisitions and dispositions. For more information, visit the Company's website at www.hanleyinvestment.com
or call (949) 585-7610.

Wednesday, November 11, 2009

Thompson Dorfman Partners Development Wins ULI Workforce Housing Award
* **
KTGY is the Designer of Award-Winning Casa del Maestro

OAKLAND, CALIF. – The Urban Land Institute’s (ULI) Terwilliger Center for Workforce Housing has named Casa del Maestro in Santa Clara, Calif., as a recipient of the 2009 Jack Kemp Workforce Housing Models of Excellence Award. The award, which is named after former U.S. Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and U.S. Representative Jack Kemp who died in May 2009, was presented to Casa del Maestro’s developer Thompson Dorfman Partners, LLC of Mill Valley, Calif. by former HUD Secretaries Steve Preston and Henry Cisneros at the recent ULI Fall Meeting in San Francisco, Calif. Casa del Maestro was honored for its quality design, innovative financing structure, strong public/private partnership, and ability to be replicated in other areas of the country with high housing costs. Casa del Maestro was designed by KTGY Group in Oakland, Calif.

Thompson Dorfman Partners is an award-winning developer best known for its luxury residential development. The 10-year-old firm has developed more than $1.7 billion in projects throughout California. Earlier this year, Thompson Dorfman completed 555YVR, Downtown Walnut Creek’s first transit-oriented luxury residential community oriented towards young professionals. 555YVR is a stylish, amenity-rich, green development located within walking distance to BART and Downtown’s shopping and entertainment district. KTGY served as the project architect for 555YVR.

“This is a great way for Thompson Dorfman Partners to give back to the areas in which we develop,” said Bruce Dorfman, co-founder of Thompson Dorfman. “Providing high quality, affordable housing for teachers benefits the entire community.” Thompson Dorfman formed a non-profit affiliate, Education Housing Partners (EHP) to assist public agencies and school districts in providing affordable, high quality workforce housing in order to recruit and retain staff in areas with prohibitively high housing costs.

Located in one of the nation’s most expensive housing markets, Casa del Maestro (Spanish for “house of the teacher”) was the first teacher housing development in California built, owned, and operated by a public school district. Prior to the completion of Casa del Maestro Phase I in 2002, high housing costs in the area had increased the attrition rate of teachers by 300 percent in the five years prior to this venture, and estimates suggest it costs the district upwards of $50,000 just to recruit and train new teachers. Since Casa del Maestro’s completion, the attrition rate for young teachers in the Santa Clara Unified School District has decreased by 75 percent compared to teachers of similar tenure who did not receive this housing benefit.

Most importantly, the students in the district are benefiting as proficiency levels on standardized tests have increased by as much as 30 percent since the introduction of this housing. Although this test score improvement is due to a number of factors, district administration feels that a large part of the improvement can be directly attributed to its housing programs which have resulted in lower staff turnover and the hiring of higher quality employees.

With the outstanding success of Phase I, an additional 30 units were added to bring the total number of units to 70. The apartment layouts are varied, upscale and comparable to most newly-built luxury apartments in the Silicon Valley. All units have large floorplans, modern kitchens, air conditioning, decks or patios and private garages – 50 percent of which have direct access to a unit, a security feature commended particularly by the faculty’s women teachers. The size and layouts of the residences in Phase II include 18 one-bedroom units ranging in size from 702-787 square feet; six one-bedroom plus den units ranging from 829-1,029 square feet; and six two-bedroom, two-bath units totaling 1,122 square feet. Rents range from $980 per month for a one-bedroom unit to $1,400 per month for a two-bedroom which is about 50 percent less than similar quality market-rate units in Santa Clara County.

Phase II also incorporated numerous design and construction upgrades to improve environmental sustainability in order to meet LEED Silver guidelines, including: site plan maximized solar exposure for units, lower parking ratios and reduced foot print to provide more open space; energy standards that are 15 percent more efficient than State mandate; bioswales and retention facilities to collect and treat storm water; drought tolerant planting; use of low VOC paints and sealants; recycling program for construction waste; and use of recycled building materials.

The sustainable design and close proximity to employment, services, and education further increase affordability and benefits for residents who have few affordable housing options. There are over a dozen district campuses, public transit, and retail, restaurants, and services located in neighboring commercial centers.

"Casa del Maestro is a prime example of a self-sustaining community -- environmentally, socially and also economically. Because of the financing structure no district funds were used for the improvements and the rents cover operating costs, reserves and debt service. Even with a softening residential market, home prices and rental rates are still well beyond what most starting teachers can afford in metropolitan areas in California so this type of workforce housing is as vital as ever," said Dorfman. Dorfman added that he believes despite budget restraints, many school districts around the state and the country still have the capacity to follow Santa Clara's lead. Thompson Dorfman provided complete design/build contracting services at cost for the development of Casa del Maestro.

For example, the San Mateo County Community College District, working with Education Housing Partners and KTGY, completed College Vista in 2006, an award-winning 44-unit apartment community built on a 2.3-acre parking lot owned by the district. Similar to Casa del Maestro, College Vista’s below-market rents and incentives for eventual home purchase have successfully reduced attrition of its staff and provided a beneficial recruiting tool. Presently, Education Housing Partners and KTGY are under construction on Canada Vista, an additional 60-unit apartment community on behalf of the San Mateo County Community College District, which is scheduled for completion in 2010.

“Casa del Maestro and College Vista serve as a model for not only other public school districts, but also public and private employers throughout the country. The development structure, financing and design serve as a prototype to address the problem of affordable housing for moderate-income, service-based employees in cost-prohibitive markets in the U.S.,” said KTGY’s Chairman Stan Braden, AIA. “The outstanding success of both the Santa Clara Unified School District and San Mateo County Community College District using the same public-private partnership and financial model, further supports the quality of the concept and its ability to be reproduced.”

About Thompson Dorfman Partners, LLC
Thompson Dorfman Partners, LLC is a real estate development and investment company. Formed in 1999 by Will Thompson and Bruce Dorfman, Thompson Dorfman focuses on multi-family residential development, with particular emphasis on well-sited, urban infill and mixed-use properties located in high growth, technology-driven markets in California. The principals of Thompson Dorfman have more than 25 years experience in the industry and Thompson Dorfman have collectively developed 10,000 multifamily homes in 40 California apartment and condominium communities. In 2004 they formed Education Housing Partners, a California non-profit public benefit corporation, in order to facilitate school districts and public agencies to build workforce housing for their employees. For more information, please visit www.thompsondorfman.com.

About Santa Clara Unified School District
Santa Clara Unified School District (SCUSD) is in the heart of Silicon Valley and includes most of the City of Santa Clara, part of north San Jose and the eastern portion of the City of Sunnyvale. SCUSD includes grades kindergarten through twelfth grade and has an award winning adult education program as well as a strong preschool and day care component. The district educates 14,250 students and has a teaching force of 775 teachers. For more information about SCUSD, go to www.santaclarausd.org.

About Urban Land Institute (ULI)
The Urban Land Institute is a nonprofit education and research institute supported by its members. Its mission is to provide leadership in the responsible use of land and in creating and sustaining thriving communities worldwide. Established in 1936, the Institute has more than 40,000 members. For more information, please visit www.uli.org.

About KTGY Group, Inc.
Established in 1991, KTGY Group, Inc., Architecture and Planning, provides comprehensive planning and award-winning architectural design services for residential communities, retail, hospitality, mixed-use and related specialty developments. KTGY delivers innovative solutions that reflect clear understanding of development, marketing and financial performance and takes particular pride in its highly motivated and principal led studios. Serving clients worldwide, KTGY maintains offices in Irvine, Oakland and Santa Monica, and in Denver. See www.ktgy.com.

Saturday, October 17, 2009


Hodgdon-Miank Completes Tenant Improvements for RREEF - PGP Partners

COLTON, CALIF. – Hodgdon-Miank Construction, a full-service construction company based in the Inland Empire, recently served as the Design-Build General Contractor for San Francisco-based RREEF and PGP Partners, Inc. of Lake Forest, Calif., completing $1.2 million in tenant improvements for tenants Stater Bros.; Brands on Sale, and two other buildings at Mountain View Industrial Center in Redlands, Calif.

As the Design-Build Contractor for the Mountain View Industrial Center project, Hodgdon-Miank Construction covered 164,000 square feet of tenant improvements in four industrial buildings located at 2470, 2466, and 2456 Lugonia Avenue and 1450 Mountain View Avenue. The improvements for Stater Bros. totaled 60,000 square feet and included 2,000 square feet of new offices, warehouse lighting, and demising. For Brands on Sale, Hodgdon-Miank Construction improved 100,000 square-feet with 4,000 square feet of office, warehouse lighting, IT room, power and data integration for their automated shipping systems, and other improvements. The third project provided tenant improvements for 2,000 square feet of new office space in a third building. The fourth project also provided tenant improvements for 2,000 square feet of new office space in a fourth building.

“The Hodgdon Group is very responsive, cost effective and professional,” says J.R. Wetzel, Managing Partner with PGP Partners. “You get a local company with direct interaction with the key team members.”

Mountain View Industrial Center is a new freeway visible development consisting of six buildings totaling 707,810 square feet. The six buildings range in size from 99,363 square feet to 149,275 square feet and have clear heights of 30 feet and ESFR sprinkler systems. Five of the six buildings have trailer storage capabilities on-site. Each building has a minimum of 17 dock doors and two grade level ramps. The buildings are all divisible into two units and all have fenced and secured truck courts.

Hodgdon-Miank Construction is also the Design-Build Contractor on a 30,000-square-foot extensive remodel for Azusa Pacific University in Los Angeles County. Hodgdon-Miank Construction and its parent company, the Hodgdon Group, are handling the design, entitlements, construction and construction management of the new $4 million project, which includes gutting and remodeling the former Carl E. Wynn Science Center building on the Azusa East campus.

Hodgdon-Miank Construction has extensive experience with all types of construction. For more information, call Aaron Hodgdon or David Miank at 909.783.3020.

Friday, October 9, 2009

BIA/SO CA 50+ Housing Council Names KTGY's Manny Gonzalez, AIA, LEED AP, SAGE "Person of the Year"

IRVINE, CALIF. - Award-winning KTGY Group, Inc., Architecture and Planning, is pleased to announce that Manuel G. Gonzalez, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP, CAASH and Principal of KTGY Group has been named 2009 SAGE "Person of the Year" by the 50+ Housing Council of the Building Industry Association of Southern California. This prestigious award honors an individual for their commitment, personal compassion and professional contributions to housing and related services to residents 50+.

In his more than 25 years of practice in residential development, Gonzalez has been responsible for the design, construction and renovation of nearly 6,000 active adult housing units including the design of more than 50 active adult communities. More than 30 of those communities are scattered from the desert to the sea throughout all of Southern California. Gonzalez's dedication to excellence and sustainable design solutions have set new industry standards and have earned him more than 70 national, regional and local design awards including 25 for work in the 50+ Housing market alone. This year, Gonzalez won his fifth NAHB 50+ Housing Gold Award, which was for the Echo Park Senior Community. Echo Park is currently a 2009 SAGE Award finalist.

Gonzalez is the senior partner in KTGY's Santa Monica office and president of KTGY Group, Colorado. He is a licensed architect in the states of California, Arizona, Nevada, Utah, Texas, Colorado, New Mexico and Indiana; and has been featured in Who's Who in 50+ Home Building and in 50+ Builder's Architect of the Year.

Andy Bowden, the 2009 president of the 50+ Housing Council Board and principal at Land Concern in Santa Ana, Calif., notes, "Long regarded as an expert on 50+ housing, Manny Gonzalez has helped lead the way in residential design for our aging population. A past president of the 50+ Housing Council BIA/SC, he has helped develop new ideas, concepts and strategies targeting the specific needs of seniors. Manny's commitment to the 50+ industry as a whole as well as his proven leadership and guidance working with the 50+ Housing Council has demonstrated that he is a true leader and innovator in the field of 50+ housing."

Bowden continues, "Manny is always incorporating new and innovative design into each of his projects, pushing the envelope and creating successful communities while providing exciting design solutions. His knowledge, his commitment and, above all, his passion to this industry is a testament to his vast abilities. We are very proud to name him the 2009 SAGE Person of the Year."

A renowned international speaker, author and media expert on the 50+ Housing industry, Gonzalez will be speaking at several upcoming industry events including the Multifamily Executive Conference on October 12 in Las Vegas, NV; Big Builder magazine's pioneering virtual program on November 9; and two sessions at the International Builders' Show in Las Vegas on January 20 and 21.

Gonzalez has served as Chair of the AIA Housing Committee and a Board of Directors Member for the BIA. He actively holds a leadership role on numerous national committees for the NAHB Multifamily Leadership Board, The 50+ Symposium and University of Housing, and has served two terms as President of the Seniors Housing Council for Southern California.

In 2008, NAHB 50+ Housing Council honored him for his accomplishments in the 50+ housing industry and awarded him with the Certified Active Adult Specialist in Housing (CAASH) designation. He is currently on the Editorial Advisory Board of 50+ Builder and BUILDERNews magazines; and has written and contributed to scores of articles on residential design.

An 8th generation native of Los Angeles, Gonzalez is also dedicated to community service and youth sports. Following half a dozen years on the Malibu Little League Board, Gonzalez has now taken to the pool and serves as President of the Los Angeles Water Polo Club and Vice-chair of the Coastal Zone for USA Water Polo.

Gonzalez and other award winners will be presented with their awards at the 15th annual SAGE ceremony on Wednesday, November 12, 2009 at The Turnip Rose, Grand Newport Plaza, 1901 Newport Boulevard, Costa Mesa, Calif. The event begins at 6:00 p.m. For more information about attending this event, visit www.50PlusHC.com. To register, call (909) 396-9993 or email pnearhoff@biasc.org.

About 50+ Housing Council
50+ Housing Council provides networking, education and partnering prospects for Southern California professionals involved in every aspect of building housing specifically for persons aged 50+ − active adult, "age-targeted," senior condos, 55+ apartments, CCRC's, Assisted Living, Alzheimer's care and more. For more information, visit www.50PlusHC.com.

About BIA/SC
The Building Industry Association of Southern California, Inc. (BIA/SC) is a nonprofit trade association representing more than 1,800 member companies employing over 200,000 persons who are engaged in all aspects of building homes and communities throughout Southern California. For more information, visit www.biasc.org.

About KTGY Group, Inc.
Established in 1991, KTGY Group, Inc., Architecture and Planning, provides comprehensive planning and award-winning architectural design services for residential communities, retail, hospitality, mixed-use and related specialty developments. KTGY delivers innovative solutions that reflect clear understanding of development, marketing and financial performance and takes particular pride in its highly motivated and principal led studios. Serving clients worldwide, KTGY maintains offices in Irvine, Oakland, Santa Monica, and in Denver. See www.ktgy.com.

Tuesday, October 6, 2009

Coreland Awarded Over 1.2 Million SF in Court-Appointed Receivership Service Assignments and Management Contracts During 2nd Quarter

TUSTIN, CALIF. – Coreland Companies of Tustin, Calif., one of the largest private real estate service companies based in California, announced that Coreland's Principal Patrick Galentine has been appointed State Court Receiver in matters involving four assets located in Southern California totaling 1,231,000 square feet of retail, office and industrial space. Additionally, Coreland Companies will be responsible for the property management during the receivership period. Earlier this year, Coreland was awarded over one million square feet in property management contracts; nearly half of the new assignments were on behalf of State Court-appointed Receivers.

The properties include: a one million-square-foot industrial distribution facility in Fontana; University Village in Riverside, a 200,000-square-foot shopping center located across from University of California, Riverside; Diamond Executive Suites, a 7,000-square-foot executive suite building in Ontario; and La Puente Pavillion, a 24,000-square-foot neighborhood shopping center in La Puente.

"Coreland’s combination of extensive experience with distressed assets as well as our current service platform, which includes Receiver, management and brokerage services, enables our firm to customize a strategy that best suits each asset, regardless of the property type, to accomplish our client’s goals," said Coreland’s President Chris Hite.

Coreland Companies is a full-service commercial real estate company with expertise in retail, office and industrial properties. Coreland Companies is based in Tustin, California with offices in Utah and throughout Southern California. For more information, please call the company’s headquarters at (714) 573-7780 or visit www.coreland.com.
KTGY Principal Damian Taitano Invited to Speak at Building Industry Show 2009 at Long Beach Convention Center

IRVINE, CALIF. - Award-winning KTGY Group, Inc., Architecture and Planning, is pleased to announce that KTGY Principal Damian Taitano, Architect, has been invited to speak at the 21st Annual Building Industry Association of Southern California’s Building Industry Show (BIS) 2009 on November 19 & 20, 2009 at the Long Beach Convention Center. This is Taitano’s third consecutive year speaking at the BIS. BIS is the official tradeshow of the Building Industry Association of Southern California and has been the number one trade show for the region’s building industry professionals.

In past years, Taitano has covered topics from cost implications of new building codes to practical applications of sustainability. This year he returns with the timely discussion, “Lessons from Past Tough Times Applied to Current Conditions” on Thursday, November 19, from 1:30 pm - 3:00 pm in Room 103B. Taitano will provide an analysis of residential and mixed-use projects to demonstrate the successes and failures in planning, product and market program. Attendees will learn how to develop solid “rule of thumb” guidelines for future development.

Taitano is dedicated to client service and has a talent for multi-family residential design. Responsible for conceptual planning through construction details on projects throughout California, his experience includes attached for sale and for rent properties, mixed-use development with a special focus on infill projects ranging from 10 to 60 units per acre. Taitano is currently working with many builders, developers and civic agencies to reposition entitled but financially unattainable projects to enable practical density and construction techniques for future success.

KTGY continues to produce award-winning multi-family and mixed-use developments that integrate the latest urban design trends and green building technologies with the needs of the end user. Among its other multi-family product types, KTGY is well recognized for its designs in affordable, senior and campus housing as well as retail, hospitality, mixed-use and related specialty developments.

About Building Industry Trade Show
BIS is a Building Industry Trade Show specifically for Building Industry Professionals of the Southern California region. It is the Official Tradeshow of the Building Industry Association of Southern California. BIS Targets serious decision makers throughout Southern California, Arizona and Nevada reaching 6 local BIA/SC Chapters and 12 different councils. BIS provides over 400 exhibitors the opportunity to deal direct with builders, subcontractors, purchasing agents and suppliers. For more information about the event, visit
www.buildingindustryshow.com.

About KTGY Group, Inc.
Established in 1991, KTGY Group, Inc., Architecture and Planning, provides comprehensive planning and award-winning architectural design services for residential communities, retail, hospitality, mixed-use and related specialty developments. KTGY delivers innovative solutions that reflect clear understanding of development, marketing and financial performance and takes particular pride in its highly motivated and principal led studios. Serving clients worldwide, KTGY maintains offices in Irvine, Oakland, Santa Monica, and in Denver. See
www.ktgy.com.

Wednesday, September 23, 2009

Hanley Investment Group Sells Winn-Dixie Supermarket and CVS/pharmacy Anchored Shopping Center in Mobile, AL

IRVINE, CALIF. – Hanley Investment Group Real Estate Advisors, one of the dominant retail investment groups in the nation and a market leader in the sale of retail properties, announced today that Kevin T. Fryman represented the buyer and seller in the sale of a Winn-Dixie supermarket and CVS/pharmacy anchored shopping center in Mobile, Alabama. The sale price could not be disclosed.

Hillcrest Marketplace is a 76,364-square-foot neighborhood shopping center located at 6300 Grelot Road in Mobile. Situated on 11.83 acres, Hillcrest Marketplace was built in 1997 and was 98% occupied at the time of sale. Tenants in the sale included: Winn-Dixie, CVS/pharmacy, Firehouse Subs, Hallmark, Hershey’s Ice Cream, Little Caesars, and VIP Nail & Tanning Salon.

“The buyer purchased a quality grocery/drug anchored shopping center in an excellent location,” says Kevin T. Fryman, a vice president at Hanley Investment Group. “The combination of both Winn-Dixie and CVS occupying space at the property since it was built in 1997, and both anchor tenants featuring above average store sales, were significant selling points in generating multiple offers on the sale of the property,” says Fryman.

“The property also garnered a high level of interest due to Winn-Dixie’s plan to renovate the interior of the store at this location this year,” adds Fryman. “On average, historical statistics have showed that when Winn-Dixie remodels a store, the location experiences sales growth of 15% - 20% after completion. This provided the buyer with the additional confidence that they were acquiring a very secure investment.”

Fryman notes the buyer assumed an existing loan that required a 45% down payment.

The buyer was a private investor from Atlanta, Georgia. The seller was Lamar Companies from Littleton, Colorado.

Fryman is currently selling a similar property in Trussville, Alabama, anchored by Winn-Dixie at a 10.71% capitalization rate. Please visit www.hanleyinvestment.com for further details or contact Kevin Fryman directly at 949.585.7674 to learn more about the Trussville Marketplace.

About Hanley Investment Group Real Estate Advisors
Built on a solid foundation of performance, integrity and dedication, Hanley Investment Group Real Estate Advisors is a boutique retail investment advisory firm with a two billion dollar transaction track record that is comprised of innovative specialists delivering unparalleled service and superior results that consistently exceed client expectations. Hanley Investment Group’s expertise, commitment and unwavering focus of putting the client’s needs first have continued to set the company apart in the industry. Hanley Investment Group works closely with individual investors, developers, and institutional property owners in every facet of the transaction to insure that the highest value is achieved. Clients rely on Hanley Investment Group to be the most knowledgeable and trusted source for valuation services, market information and retail property acquisitions and dispositions. For more information, visit the Company’s website at www.hanleyinvestment.com or call (949) 585-7610.
Hodgdon Group Represents Ashley Furniture HomeStore in Lease Transaction in Palmdale, CA
* * *
Hodgdon-Miank Construction Awarded Design Build Tenant Improvement Contract


COLTON, CALIF. – Inland Empire-based Hodgdon Group announced today that Aaron Hodgdon, president of Hodgdon Group, represented Ashley Furniture HomeStore in a lease transaction to occupy the former 42,000 sq. ft. Wickes Furniture Store building in the Sierra Commons shopping center, located across from the Antelope Valley Mall in Palmdale, Calif. Hodgdon also performed due diligence review on behalf of Ashley. The landlord, GRAE Ventures, LLC of Los Angeles, was represented by Rick Edwards and Winston Lee of GRAE Ventures in the lease transaction.

Located at the northeast corner of Avenue P and 10th Street West, Ashley Furniture HomeStore will join tenants Michaels, BevMo, Tuesday Morning and Applebee’s. Ashley Furniture is the No. 1 manufacturer and retailer of furniture in North America; the stores provide every furniture need for the home.

Hodgdon-Miank Construction, a full-service construction company also based in the Inland Empire, has commenced as the Design Build contractor on the tenant improvements with Dan Wallner serving as the project manager. Ashley Furniture HomeStore plans to open on October 2, 2009.

About The Hodgdon Group
The Hodgdon Group is a full-service real estate brokerage, development and construction management company for all of types of real estate projects; and has constructed a variety of medical office buildings through its general contracting division, Hodgdon-Miank Construction. For more information about the Hodgdon Group, please call Aaron Hodgdon at 909.783.3020 or visit www.hodgdongroup.com.

Wednesday, September 16, 2009

KTGY Principal David Senden Invited to be Speaker at BIA/OC Event

IRVINE, CALIF. - Award-winning KTGY Group, Inc., Architecture + Planning, is pleased to announce that KTGY’s Principal David Senden has been invited to participate in the Orange County Chapter’s Building Industry Association (BIA) and Urban Infill and Multifamily Housing Committee Workshop Program: “So You Think You’ve Got Infill? Think Again!” held on Thursday, September 24, 2009, at the Embassy Suites Anaheim – North at 3100 East Frontera in Anaheim, Calif. Registration and breakfast start at 7:30 am, the program runs from 8:00 am - 11:30 am. There is an optional project tour of The Crossing, a new urban infill, transit-oriented, resort-style apartment community developed by SARES-REGIS Group and designed by KTGY, immediately following the program.

Senden will participate in the panel, “It’s Process, Not Project,” which will be moderated by John O’Brien of Brookfield Homes, and include CJ Amstrup of the City of Anaheim, Jim Ivory, Bill Montgomery and Mike Winter with SARES-REGIS Group, Jay Ruby of Urban Resource Corp., and Michael Schrock of Urban Arena as additional panel members. Panelists will discuss the development challenges they have faced and will feature an in-depth case study on “The Crossing” in Anaheim. Attendees will get to learn about the development process from pre-development due diligence through project/land planning and design, as well as sales and marketing. Attendees can take a tour of The Crossing, which is currently under construction and will feature 312 apartments and 39 live/work units at 3530 E. La Palma Avenue, a former industrial location, in Anaheim. The City of Anaheim will also offer its development vision for this area of the city at the workshop.

Always with design quality and integrity, Senden provides the “big picture” vision for projects varying from infill mixed-use developments through large scale planning efforts. His knowledge and experience of residential product as well as his ability to stay on the cutting edge of design makes Senden an invaluable member of any development team. He leads a team of designers and planners who work hand-in-hand with the local jurisdictions, developers, and community. A reputable history of work for many of California’s major builders and developers as well as a string of smaller scale intimate projects mark Senden’s diverse portfolio.

Please call Philly Pemberton at 949.224.0321 or register online at www.biaoc.com. Deadline to register to attend workshop is September 18.

About BIA/OC

The Building Industry Association of Southern California, Orange County Chapter (BIA/OC) is a non-profit trade association representing more than 1,000 companies employing over 100,000 people affiliated with the home building industry. The BIA/OC is one of seven chapters and eleven councils that make up the BIA of Southern California. The BIA/OC is also affiliated with the California Building Industry Association (CBIA) and the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB). An active board of directors and 11 committees, made up of leaders from local builders, trade contractors, and businesses associated with the real estate industry, lead the BIA/OC in its mission to promote proactive participation in the development of complex economic and community issues in Orange County. For more information about BIA/OC, visit www.biaoc.com.

About KTGY Group, Inc.

Established in 1991, KTGY Group, Inc., Architecture and Planning, provides comprehensive planning and award-winning architectural design services for residential communities, retail, hospitality, mixed-use and related specialty developments. KTGY delivers innovative solutions that reflect clear understanding of development, marketing and financial performance and takes particular pride in its highly motivated and principal led studios. Serving clients worldwide, KTGY maintains offices in Irvine, Oakland, and Santa Monica, and in Denver. See www.ktgy.com.
Hanley Investment Group Sells Multi-Tenant Retail Strip Center for $1,970,000 in Bellflower, Calif.
* * *
Nine Offers Received in the First Two Weeks


IRVINE, CALIF. – Hanley Investment Group Real Estate Advisors, one of the most dominant retail investment groups in the western United States and a market leader in the sale of retail properties, announced today Kevin T. Fryman and Eric P. Wohl of Hanley Investment Group represented the seller in the sale of a multi-tenant retail strip center in Bellflower, Calif. The purchase price was $1,970,000, representing a 7.37% capitalization rate.

The 9,171-square-foot multi-tenant strip center, known as Alondra Plaza, is located at 9345-9361 Alondra Boulevard in Bellflower. Positioned at the signalized intersection of Alondra Boulevard and Clark Avenue, the subject property is situated on a 0.50-acre lot and is located easily accessible from the 91, 105, 605 and 710 freeways. Built in 1979, Alondra Plaza was 100% occupied at the time of sale and included tenants Advance America and Domino’s Pizza.

“The buyer pool for multi-tenant strip centers in southern California of this size and scope remains strong,” said Kevin T. Fryman, a vice president at Hanley Investment Group.“We generated nine offers in the first two weeks of marketing the property, showing the high demand for this type of asset in today’s market.”

“The third quarter has shown an increase in buyer activity as more buyers and more offers are being generated on both single- and multi-tenant retail properties in southern California,” said Eric P. Wohl, a vice president at Hanley Investment Group. “How long this increase in activity is going to last is the big question, but for now it is a positive sign in a year that has been challenging in the commercial real estate sector.”

The buyer was a private investor from Los Angeles, Calif., represented by John Son at Lee & Associates in Orange, Calif. The seller was a private investor based in Los Angeles, Calif.

About Hanley Investment Group Real Estate Advisors
Built on a solid foundation of performance, integrity and dedication, Hanley Investment Group Real Estate Advisors is a boutique retail investment advisory firm with a two billion dollar transaction track record that is comprised of innovative specialists delivering unparalleled service and superior results that consistently exceed client expectations. Hanley Investment Group’s expertise, commitment and unwavering focus of putting the client’s needs first have continued to set the company apart in the industry. Hanley Investment Group works closely with individual investors, developers, and institutional property owners in every facet of the transaction to insure that the highest value is achieved. Clients rely on Hanley Investment Group to be the most knowledgeable and trusted source for valuation services, market information and retail property acquisitions and dispositions. For more information, visit the Company’s website at
www.hanleyinvestment.com or call (949) 585-7610.

Wednesday, September 9, 2009

Downtown Walnut Creek to Debut First New Live-Work-Shop-Play Condo Homes
* * *
Developed By Thompson Dorfman Partners and Designed By KTGY Group and Kwan Henmi


IRVINE, CALIF. - Award-winning KTGY Group, Inc., Architecture + Planning, architect for 555YVR, announced today that Downtown Walnut Creek's first live-work-shop-play residences, 555YVR, are nearly completed.

Developed by Thompson Dorfman Partners with KTGY as the project architect, in conjunction with Kwan Henmi as the concept design architect, 555YVR is a modern, environmentally-friendly, transit-oriented development featuring 87 spacious one-bedroom, one-bedroom plus den and two-bedroom homes, as well as townhomes and live-work units, all featuring luxury finishes, stainless steel appliances and expansive floor-to-ceiling windows. Most homes have spacious private decks or patios.

Owing its name to its convenient location at 555 Ygnacio Valley Road in Walnut Creek, Calif., this exclusive address offers an innovative blend of stylish and sophisticated living in a central location within steps of downtown's hippest restaurants, trendiest boutiques, various cultural activities, and transit links to the rest of the Bay Area. It is the epicenter of effortless living with all the benefits of an exciting urban lifestyle in a thriving suburban setting.

"We are thrilled to complete 555YVR and advance a growing trend toward downtown living in Walnut Creek," said Bruce Dorfman, principal of Thompson Dorfman Partners, whose partners have been active Bay Area developers for more than two decades. "Residents of 555YVR will be able to enjoy great restaurants, nightspots, shopping and attractions within walking distance. And it is a block from the BART station. There is nothing like this in downtown Walnut Creek or in the I-680 corridor."

"555YVR's architecture is decidedly contemporary," said Stan Braden, AIA, NCARB, chairman and principal of KTGY. "The clean lines and a simple but elegant palette of materials and carefully executed common spaces signal a well-appointed community that is comfortable today and into the future."

Rising four-stories, these tasteful residences are topped by the Sky Lounge, an amazing rooftop terrace with an outdoor kitchen, fireplace, and breathtaking 360-degree views of the San Ramon valley and Mt. Diablo. Residents also enjoy a state-of-the-art media room, a private fitness center, a lushly landscaped courtyard with a water feature and bench seating, an on-site protected dog run and WiFi connectivity in common areas, ideal for tech-savvy professionals. There is also plenty of parking and ample storage in a gated 170-space subterranean garage.

555YVR's thoughtfully-planned homes offer exquisitely detailed basics, including expansive low-E energy-efficient floor-to-ceiling windows, which allow natural light and provide dramatic views; hardwood floors; European-styled kitchens with CaesarStone counter tops and premium stainless steel appliances from Bosch and Thermador; and, bathrooms in serene tones of taupe, bronze and ivory, Kohler Ladena sinks with polished chrome Kohler faucets, Italian tile floors and TOTO dual flush toilets. Most of the units have private outdoor decks or patios, 9' or 10' ceilings, and generous closet spaces with walk-in closets in the master suites.

Located on the former site of the JFK University, some of 555YVR's additional sustainable "green" features include innovative, energy efficient lighting; passive solar heating; water efficient landscaping; a "cool" roof deck, intended to reduce heat island and to minimize the impact on the microclimate, human and wildlife habitat; bicycle storage and bike racks available to residents; low-flow, water-efficient showerheads, lavatory sinks and kitchen faucets; use of low-VOC construction adhesives for all interior adhesives; environmentally-friendly interior trim and shelving; use of low-emitting paint meets the highest air quality standards; and light pollution reduction to improve nighttime visibility, night sky access and to reduce impact on nocturnal environments. The developer also diverted 50 percent of construction and demolition waste to promote recycling and reduce landfill waste.

"The live-work-shop-play environment minimizes commuting and lessens pollution as it includes close proximity to public transit lines, neighborhood parks and shopping centers, business and medical services, churches and schools," said Braden. "Furthermore, 555YVR's sustainable design and lower energy bills and pedestrian-friendly location increases affordability for residents, which is more important than ever in today's challenging economic climate."

"555YVR offers tremendous value in this marketplace and combines the best features of modern, luxury condo living, energy efficiency, and the outstanding benefits of a highly desirable location at the commercial, entertainment, and cultural heart of the city, along with easy freeway and BART access to anywhere in the Bay Area and beyond," said Dorfman.

He continues, "The city leaders encouraged us to include the six live-work units. It is a great way to take advantage of the prime visibility along the Ygnacio Valley Road. Each of these units has a separate entrance to commercial storefront on Ygancio Valley Road with a separate residence in the back or up a flight of stairs - they are perfect for service-based businesses."

The homes range in size from 763 square feet to 1,308 square feet with a wide variety of floor plans. Prices range from the low $300,000s to mid-$700,000s with initial occupancy slated for October 2009. To date, more than a quarter of the units have either been reserved or sold.

According to Paul Zeger, president of Pacific Marketing Associates, the Bay Area real estate marketing firm leading the development's sales activities, 555YVR "appeals to first-time homebuyers and empty nesters, and especially young professionals seeking style, convenience and fun in an urban setting, whether they commute to work in San Francisco via BART, or walk to work at Kaiser Permanente or John Muir Medical Center, just blocks away.

"555YVR is helping to establish a 24/7 rhythm in Downtown Walnut Creek," added Zeger. "For people not interested in big home maintenance and yard work, there's a real movement to simplify your way of living and take advantage of unique attractions only found downtown."

555YVR is within walking distance to trendy restaurants and nightclubs, world-class shops and a weekly Farmers' Market; and popular cultural, civic and entertainment destinations such as the public library, Civic Park, the Lesher Center for the Performing Arts and the Century Theaters. Also nearby are the 90 stores at Broadway Plaza, including Macy's, Nordstrom, Tiffany & Co., The Apple Store, and a proposed Neiman-Marcus. For easy commuting, the BART station is only two blocks away, with connections to Caltrains and local buses. Additionally, I-680 and I-24 access is close-by.

Contemporary interior finishes were selected by Kimberlee Colvin Interiors of Mill Valley, Calif. and Zen-inspired landscape design was completed by Cliff Lowe Associates in San Francisco.

For more information about 555YVR, visit the sales center (with on-site garage parking), located at 555 Ygnacio Valley Road, Walnut Creek, CA 94596 or call 925.280.8888 or visit online at www.555yvr.com.

About 555YVR
555YVR is Downtown Walnut Creek's new boutique condominium residences with occupancy fall 2009. Developed by Thompson Dorfman Partners and designed by noted Bay Area architects from Kwan Henmi and KTGY Group, 555YVR is a modern four-story structure featuring 87 one-bedroom, one-bedroom plus den and two-bedroom homes, as well as townhomes and live-work units. Residents share amenities such as a courtyard, private fitness center, state-of-the-art media room and Sky Lounge, a roof top terrace with outdoor kitchen and fireplace surrounded by spectacular 360-degree views of the valley and Mt. Diablo. 555YVR is conveniently located near downtown's trendy restaurants and nightspots, world-class shopping and weekly Farmers' Market, as well as civic and cultural attractions such as the public library, Civic Park, Century Theaters and Lesher Center for the Performing Arts. Residents have easy access to local transit and BART, as well as I-680 and I-24, connecting them to the rest of the Bay Area. 555YVR is marketed exclusively by Pacific Marketing Associates. The 555YVR Sales Center, open daily from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., is located at 555 Ygnacio Valley Road in Downtown Walnut Creek, between Broadway and Main, just blocks from BART and I-680/I-24. For more information, call (925) 290-8888; or, visit online at www.555yvr.com.

About Thompson Dorfman Partners
Thompson Dorfman Partners, LLC is a real estate development and investment company. Formed in 1999 by Will Thompson and Bruce Dorfman, Thompson Dorfman focuses on multi-family residential development, with particular emphasis on well-sited, urban infill and mixed-use properties located in high growth, technology-driven markets in California. The principals of Thompson Dorfman have more than 25 years experience in the housing industry and Thompson Dorfman have collectively developed 10,000 multi-family homes in 40 California apartment and condominium communities. They have also expanded their services to provide development advisory, management and investment expertise to institutional and corporate land owners to assist on underperforming assets. In 2004, Thompson Dorfman formed Education Housing Partners, a California nonprofit public benefit corporation, in order to facilitate school districts and public agencies to build workforce housing for their employees. For more information, please visit www.thompsondorfman.com.

About KTGY Group, Inc.
Established in 1991, KTGY Group, Inc., Architecture and Planning, provides comprehensive planning and award-winning architectural design services for residential communities, retail, hospitality, mixed-use and related specialty developments. KTGY delivers innovative solutions that reflect clear understanding of development, marketing and financial performance and takes particular pride in its highly motivated and principal led studios. Serving clients worldwide, KTGY maintains offices in Irvine, Oakland and Santa Monica, and in Denver. See www.ktgy.com.

Monday, August 10, 2009

Hanley Investment Group Sells Neighborhood Shopping Center in Anaheim Hills, Calif.

IRVINE, CALIF. - Hanley Investment Group Real Estate Advisors, one of the most dominant retail investment groups in the western United States and a market leader in the sale of retail properties, announced today Edward B. Hanley and Jeremy S. McChesney of Hanley Investment Group represented the buyer and seller in the sale of a 71,720-square-foot neighborhood shopping center in Anaheim Hills, Calif. The price could not be disclosed.

Anaheim Hills Plaza is located at 408 - 490 S. Anaheim Hills Road in Anaheim Hills. Positioned at the signalized intersection of Nohl Ranch Road and Anaheim Hills Road, the center is anchored by CVS/pharmacy.

The buyer was Lin Investments and the seller was a California limited partnership.

About Hanley Investment Group Real Estate Advisors
Built on a solid foundation of performance, integrity and dedication, Hanley Investment Group Real Estate Advisors is a boutique retail investment advisory firm with a two billion dollar transaction track record that is comprised of innovative specialists delivering unparalleled service and superior results that consistently exceed client expectations. Hanley Investment Group's expertise, commitment and unwavering focus of putting the client's needs first have continued to set the company apart in the industry. Hanley Investment Group works closely with individual investors, developers, and institutional property owners in every facet of the transaction to insure that the highest value is achieved. Clients rely on Hanley Investment Group to be the most knowledgeable and trusted source for valuation services, market information and retail property acquisitions and dispositions. For more information, visit the Company's website at www.hanleyinvestment.com or call (949) 585-7610.
Hodgdon Group Completes $3.5 Million in Improvements as Project Manager at CHW Medical Plaza in Fontana, Calif.

FONTANA, CALIF. -- Inland Empire-based Hodgdon Group announced it recently completed three medical construction management projects at the newly built CHW Medical Plaza in Fontana, Calif. The three tenant improvement projects have a combined value of approximately $3,575,000. Two of the projects were on behalf of Catholic Healthcare West (CHW), the eighth largest hospital system in the nation and the largest not-for-profit hospital provider in California; CHW also owns local hospitals St. Bernardine Medical Center and Community Hospital both located in San Bernardino, Calif. The other project was on behalf San Bernardino Medical Group, Inc.

According to Aaron Hodgdon, President of the Hodgdon Group, the Hodgdon Group served as the Project Manager for the tenant build-outs for all three tenants: St. Bernardine's Urgent Care Center, Inland Healthcare Group and San Bernardino Medical Group's medical offices.

The build-outs encompassed everything required for an operational medical facility -- converting a raw shell to a finished product. The Hodgdon Group team coordinated with the architect and engineers, obtained City permits, and coordinated competitive bidding through the landlord. Improvements included waiting areas, procedure and exam rooms, x-ray room, and physician and administrative offices. The architect for all three projects was Pierce/Cooley Architects, Inc. Hattox Design Group, LLC of Irvine provided the interior design. Both firms are based in Irvine, Calif. The developer is PRP Development of Newport Beach. Josef Farrar and Justin Hodgdon of UGL Equis in Costa Mesa, Calif. represented the lessor, San Francisco-based CHW, in the lease transaction.

CHW Medical Plaza is a two-story, 40,000-square-foot new building located at 17051 Casmalia Street, off the 210 Freeway at Sierra Lakes Avenue in Fontana. Inland Healthcare Group's new 10,068-square-foot medical facility is located in Suite 101 at CHW Medical Plaza. St. Bernardine's Urgent Care's new 4,647-square-foot medical facility is located in Suite 102. San Bernardino Medical Group's new 5,810-square-foot medical facility is located in Suite 103.

Hodgdon Group is a full-service real estate brokerage, development and construction management company for all of types of real estate projects; and has constructed a variety of medical office buildings through its general contracting division, Hodgdon-Miank Construction. For more information about the Hodgdon Group, please contact Aaron Hodgdon at 909.783.3020 or
aaron@hodgdongroup.com.

Thursday, July 30, 2009

Hanley Investment Group Sells Multi-Tenant Retail Strip Center for $3,800,000 in Riverside, California
* * *
Buyer Assumes Existing Loan on Purchase of 7-Eleven Anchored Retail Center


IRVINE, CALIF. - Hanley Investment Group Real Estate Advisors, one of the most dominant retail investment groups in the western United States and a market leader in the sale of retail properties, announced today Jeremy S. McChesney of Hanley Investment Group represented the buyer and seller in the sale of a multi-tenant retail strip center in Riverside, Calif. The purchase price was $3,800,000.

The 34,644-square-foot shopping center, known as Copper Lantern Center, is located at 8151-8201 Arlington Avenue in Riverside. Positioned at the signalized intersection of Arlington Avenue and Copper Lantern Drive, the subject property is a 3.40-acre multi-tenant strip center. Copper Lantern Center is anchored by 7-Eleven and consists of 19 local and regional tenants. The property was built in 1980, and was 80 percent occupied at the time of sale.

"Hanley Investment Group successfully facilitated the buyer's assumption of an existing loan, including a substantial pay down of the current note," said Jeremy McChesney, a vice president at Hanley Investment Group.

"It was a unique transaction that had a number of challenging deal points," notes McChesney. "We worked through each deal point to develop mutually-beneficial solutions for the buyer and seller and were able to close escrow in a timely manner."

The buyer was Sunnycreek LLC of Los Angeles, Calif. The seller was Copper Lantern Holdings of Orange, Calif.

About Hanley Investment Group Real Estate Advisors
Built on a solid foundation of performance, integrity and dedication, Hanley Investment Group Real Estate Advisors is a boutique retail investment advisory firm with a two billion dollar transaction track record that is comprised of innovative specialists delivering unparalleled service and superior results that consistently exceed client expectations. Hanley Investment Group's expertise, commitment and unwavering focus of putting the client's needs first have continued to set the company apart in the industry. Hanley Investment Group works closely with individual investors, developers, and institutional property owners in every facet of the transaction to insure that the highest value is achieved. Clients rely on Hanley Investment Group to be the most knowledgeable and trusted source for valuation services, market information, and retail property acquisitions and dispositions. For more information, visit the Company's website at www.hanleyinvestment.com or call (949) 585-7610.

Saturday, July 18, 2009

Horizons At Indio Receives National Award For Outstanding Senior Affordable Housing Community
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Developers Urban Housing Communities and Heritage Community Housing, and Architectural Firm KTGY Group Honored with Prestigious Award


INDIO, CALIF. – Horizons at Indio, an affordable housing community developed by Urban Housing Communities (UHC) and Heritage Community Housing (HCH), has been awarded an Honorable Mention in the Senior Housing category of the 15th Annual Charles L. Edson Tax Credit Excellence Awards program. Architectural firm KTGY Group, Inc. designed the development with emphasis on creating a walkable, pedestrian-friendly senior environment.

"We're thrilled to receive this recognition for our community in Indio," says John Bigley, Chief Operating Officer, Urban Housing Communities. "Horizons exemplifies our commitment to excellence in affordable housing, and it's gratifying to be recognized for our efforts."

The Charles L. Edson Tax Credit Excellence Award is a national awards program presented by the Affordable Housing Tax Credit Coalition. The awards celebrate the best in affordable rental housing development and most outstanding low income housing tax credit properties in six categories: Metropolitan; Rural; Special Needs; Senior; Green; and, Public Housing Revitalization.

The winners were chosen from 40 applications from 19 states. A panel of five judges selected six first place and seven honorable mentions. Horizons at Indio received an Honorable Mention in the Senior Housing category, and was recognized, along with the other winners, at an awards ceremony in Washington, D.C. on Wednesday, June 10.

Horizons at Indio is located at 45405 Monroe Street in Indio, California, near the new, state-of-the-art Indio Senior Center scheduled to open this summer. KTGY utilized design elements intended to create a healthy and active environment and to build a close-knit neighborhood. The community opened last year and features 47 one-bedroom apartments at 679 square feet and 33 two-bedroom apartments at 922 square feet. KTGY also incorporated green-building features and energy-efficient elements into the design of Horizons.

Outside of rent, one of the largest expenses for residents is utility costs. "By creating savings in utility costs, Horizons at Indio further promotes the long-term sustainability of this affordable community," says KTGY's Alan Scales, Studio Director. "Also by locating near shopping and medical services, you're reducing travel times and traffic, greenhouse gases and carbon emissions."

All of the apartments at Horizons are reserved for seniors earning from 40 to 60 percent of the area median income for Riverside County, as published by the Department of Housing and Urban Development. Half of the units are set aside for retirees of the agricultural industry. The total cost of development was $18.7 million.

UHC is a "mission driven" for-profit affordable housing development partner of Morgan Stanley specializing in multi-family and senior housing facilities in California and Hawaii. Drawing on a vast network of partners, UHC creates multifamily housing developments that serve specific, defined needs of residents, financiers and local municipalities. UHC's executives are brought together by brothers John, Doug and David Bigley and their vision to enrich communities by fusing family values with smart business decisions. With years of experience developing mainstream affordable housing, UHC's executives understand the complexities of the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit program, tax-exempt bonds and other forms of key subsidy used to develop affordable housing. UHC employs this knowledge when executing its mission-driven goals, ultimately creating sustainable, livable communities that are rich with opportunity for families and seniors. For more information, visit www.uhcllc.net.

Established in 1991, KTGY Group, Inc., Architecture and Planning, provides comprehensive planning and award-winning architectural design services for residential communities, retail, hospitality, mixed-use and related specialty developments. KTGY delivers innovative solutions that reflect clear understanding of development, marketing and financial performance and takes particular pride in its highly motivated and principal led studios. Serving clients worldwide, KTGY maintains offices in Irvine, Oakland and Santa Monica, and in Denver. For more information, visit www.ktgy.com.