CBRE is adding to its living sectors capital markets platform, with the international hire of Alex Shaw from the firm’s London office.
In relocating to Sydney, Shaw will bring his nine years of experience in residential transactions and advisory in London and South East England to his new position as director of living sectors capital markets, Pacific.
“Alex’s appointment aligns with increased demand for international Capital Markets expertise in the Living Sectors as institutional investors seek access to residential opportunities in Australia,” said Andrew Purdon, who last year was appointed to lead CBRE’s Pacific Capital Markets Living Sectors service offering in the fast-growing build-to-rent (BTR), purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA), co-living and affordable housing sectors.
“The appetite for BTR is particularly strong and is underpinned by the proven resilience of the asset class globally combined with exceptionally strong demand drivers and record low vacancy rates across Australian cities. Alex’s experience in the more mature UK Living Sectors market will enhance our ability to provide development and investment advice to landowners, developers, and investors at all stages of the project lifecycle.”
CBRE is also building on its capabilities across living sectors including debt & structured finance, valuation & advisory, development & infrastructure and research services, as clients increasing focus on these residential rental investment models.
“It’s an auspicious time for Living Sectors growth in the Pacific region. The level of appetite for residential rental development and investment opportunities is very strong,” said Shaw.
“Investors are recognising the global phenomenon of renewed demand for city and town centre living post COVID, at the same time as build to sell apartment supply is dwindling. Our aim is to utilise our experience and lessons learned in other markets to drive growth in the BTR sector.”
Recent activity across the sector has seen GURNER and Qualitas getting the go ahead for their $450 million build-to-rent precinct in Parramatta, while Pellicano announced it was adding 166 build-to-rent residences to their new Oakleigh South retail precinct and Sentinel launched its dedicated property management platform for its BTR projects in Australia.
