1st Annual Market Pulse
The 1st Annual Kiemle Hagood Market Pulse marked the launch of a new kind of industry conversation, one rooted in collaboration, data, and forward-looking strategy across the Inland Northwest. We brought together leaders in commercial real estate, property management, legal advisory, and tax strategy for a comprehensive discussion on the forces shaping today’s market and what lies ahead in 2026.
The event was presented in partnership with Witherspoon Brajcich McPhee, PLLC (WBM) and CliftonLarsonAllen (CLA), highlighting the increasingly interconnected nature of brokerage, legal frameworks, and financial strategy in navigating a complex commercial landscape.
Commercial Real Estate, Legal & Tax Outlook
The 1st Annual Market Pulse was designed to go beyond surface-level trends, offering attendees a multi-perspective view of the market, grounded in real-time data and professional expertise. From macroeconomic pressures to local leasing dynamics, the program addressed the evolving challenges facing property owners, investors, and operators across the region.
Featured speakers and panelists included:
- Gordon Hester, Kiemle Hagood | 2026 Outlook & Company Mission
- Colin Conway, Kiemle Hagood | Commercial Property Management
- Kevin Cox, CLA | Tax Update
- Annika Disque, CLA | Tax Update
- Taudd Hume, WBM | Legal Updates
- Richard Fox, Kiemle Hagood | Roundtable Facilitator
- Erik Nelson, Kiemle Hagood | Spokane Office & Industrial
- Chad Carper, Kiemle Hagood | Eastern Washington Retail
- Mary Kienbaum, Kiemle Hagood | North Idaho Market
- David Fritch, Kiemle Hagood | Tri-Cities Market
Key Themes & Takeaways
The discussions centered around several critical themes influencing the 2026 commercial real estate landscape.
1. Market Stabilization
While volatility defined recent years, current conditions point toward stabilization rather than decline. However, activity has become more selective, with investors and tenants prioritizing efficiency, flexibility, and long-term value.
2. WA State Clean Buildings Act
Washington State’s Clean Buildings Act continues to shape operational and capital planning strategies. Property managers and owners are being challenged to adapt quickly through innovation, compliance planning, and efficiency upgrades.
3. Investment & Tax Strategy
Sessions from CLA highlighted opportunities in cost segregation, depreciation strategies, and Opportunity Zones, reinforcing the importance of proactive financial planning in a shifting tax environment.
4. Legal Landscape & Land Use
Updates from WBM emphasized how state-level land use policies and regulatory changes are influencing development feasibility and long-term investment decisions.
5. Regional Performance Variability
Panelists provided nuanced insights into how office, industrial, and retail sectors are performing differently across Spokane, North Idaho, and the Tri-Cities, underscoring the importance of localized strategy within a regional framework.
Looking Ahead
Kiemle Hagood remains one of the only regional firms producing proprietary commercial real estate research across multiple Inland Northwest markets. This event was not just about presenting information, rather about creating alignment across industries, encouraging transparency, and fostering relationships that drive smarter decision-making.
The success of the inaugural Market Pulse signals a strong demand for thoughtful, data-driven forums in the Inland Northwest. As market conditions continue to evolve, so too will the need for spaces where professionals can gather, share insights, and challenge assumptions.
