When the companies that finance CRE offer a mostly positive view of the sector after months of lending that seemed to have diminished to little more than a trickle, developers and investors may also have reasons to feel cheerful.

The 3Q 2024 Sentiment Index survey of the Board of Governors of the CRE Finance Council (CREFC) presents an optimistic view. "The latest survey results signal a strong resurgence of confidence within the CRE finance industry," commented Lisa Pendergast, CREFC executive director. "Market participants are preparing for growth and opportunity through year-end and into 2025."

Interestingly, the survey was conducted from September 4 to September 12 – before the Fed announced a 0.5% rate cut on September 18, though it was widely anticipated. The Index tries to gauge quarter-to-quarter shifts in market conditions and outlooks.