T
he commercial real estate market in Auburn appears to be weak, with "for lease" and "for sale" signs covering many storefronts. However, according to Matthew Chalanick, owner of The Real Estate Agency & Bouck Commercial Real Estate, the market is actually unpredictable and has seen more activity in recent years than expected.

    Chalanick cites the Genesee One Ten Building downtown as an example, which was 80% rented before the pandemic but is now almost fully occupied. The Nolan Block down the street has also filled up with new tenants after years of being vacant.

    Auburn real estate salesperson Gina Speno notes that office space has become more available since COVID-19, but this space is being filled by new tenants and concepts rather than existing businesses expanding. She emphasizes the need for landlords to be open to change and willing to work with new ideas and tenants.

    Jesse Kline, assistant director of the Auburn Downtown Business Improvement District, says that many local businesses had to pivot during COVID-19, but some have thrived in the process. L.B. Lightning Cyclery saw an increase in business as people bought new bicycles or repaired old ones during social distancing.

    Other downtown businesses have also expanded or opened new locations, including Prison City Brewing's speakeasy and Simple Roast Coffee Co.'s cafe and cocktail bar. The area is poised to benefit from the arrival of Micron in Onondaga County, which may increase interest in Auburn and property values.

    Chalanick loves being a realtor because he gets to connect people who may not have known about each other's needs or opportunities. Kline hopes that public art will continue to beautify and draw attention to downtown Auburn, making it an attractive destination for visitors and residents alike.