Looking toward the year ahead, leaders across real estate, retail, education, financial services, and community development are navigating a landscape shaped by shifting consumer behavior, demographic change, and evolving economic conditions. From affordability pressures and workforce challenges to continued growth across South Florida and beyond, the year ahead presents both complexity and opportunity.
In this outlook, industry experts from across the state share their perspectives on what’s next — highlighting the trends they believe will define 2026 and the strategies needed to adapt. Their insights underscore a common theme: long-term success will depend on thoughtful investment, collaboration across sectors, and a continued focus on delivering value to communities, customers, and businesses alike.
“As we look ahead to 2026, teacher shortages and declining enrollment will continue to be two of the most urgent challenges shaping our education landscape. Nonprofits and community partners will play an even greater role in extending learning opportunities and filling critical gaps for students. By investing in innovative programs and supporting future teachers, we can help students succeed, even as these broader challenges continue.” – Leslie Miller Saionz, Achieve Miami
“Looking ahead from 2025 to 2026, Gencom will continue disciplined growth, focusing on high-quality assets while deepening relationships with capital partners, brands, and lenders. The U.S. remains a core market, and we are also exploring select opportunities in Europe, Latin America, and the Caribbean. By remaining selective, opportunistic, and aligned with trusted partners, we aim to capitalize on markets where narrowing gaps between buyer and seller expectations create increased investment opportunities for experienced buyers who can execute efficiently.” – Alessandro Colantonio, Gencom
“As we head into 2026, South Florida’s commercial real estate market is exceptionally well positioned, driven by sustained population and job growth, ongoing business and corporate relocations, and strong investor demand. While certain sectors are adjusting to new supply and capital conditions, fundamentals remain solid across retail, industrial and office for high-quality, well-located assets. With capital continuing to flow into the region, we expect leasing and transaction activity to remain steady, reinforcing long-term confidence in the growth of South Florida and its position as one of the nation’s most compelling commercial real estate markets.” – Dan McGowan, JLL
“As we head into 2026, South Florida’s commercial real estate market is exceptionally well positioned, driven by sustained population and job growth, ongoing business and corporate relocations, and strong investor demand. While certain sectors are adjusting to new supply and capital conditions, fundamentals remain solid across retail, industrial and office for high-quality, well-located assets. With capital continuing to flow into the region, we expect leasing and transaction activity to remain steady, reinforcing long-term confidence in the growth of South Florida and its position as one of the nation’s most compelling commercial real estate markets.” – Michael Swerdlow, Swerdlow Group
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