Navigating Today’s CRE Finance Challenges: Strategies That Work Now

The commercial real estate (CRE) market in today’s day is defined by one word: complexity. Rising interest rates, lender caution, and shifting asset preferences have reshaped how deals are financed and closed. For property owners, buyers, and developers, navigating this environment can feel like solving a puzzle where the pieces keep moving.

At DWG, we help clients cut through that complexity. Here are the financing strategies we see working right now—and how our team helps clients successfully close deals in today’s market.

1. Exploring Alternative Lending Sources

Traditional banks have pulled back from CRE lending, especially on office and retail. But that doesn’t mean financing has dried up. Private lenders, debt funds, and insurance companies are stepping in to fill the gap.

Broker’s Advantage: DWG-RE maintains relationships across the lending spectrum, giving our clients access to creative financing options that align with their transaction goals.

2. Unlocking Value with Assumable Debt

With rates still elevated, many properties carrying older, low-rate loans have hidden value. Buyers who can assume this debt gain a built-in financing advantage.

Where we help: Our brokerage team identifies assets with assumable loans and navigates the negotiation process to ensure buyers and sellers both benefit.

3. Structuring Deals Around Tenant Strength

In 2025, lenders are laser-focused on tenant quality and lease terms. Industrial and essential-use tenants remain strong, while office and some retail require more careful underwriting.

Our approach: We position properties for financing success by highlighting tenant creditworthiness, lease stability, and long-term income streams in every offering.

4. Sale-Leasebacks as a Win-Win Strategy

Companies looking to free up capital are increasingly turning to sale-leasebacks, while investors benefit from stable, long-term leases.

Broker’s role: DWG-RE structures these deals so sellers unlock liquidity without losing operational control—and buyers secure attractive, financeable assets.

5. Navigating Deal Timelines with Precision

Tighter credit markets mean financing takes longer, with more scrutiny at every step. This makes transaction management critical.

Why it matters: At DWG-RE, we proactively coordinate between lenders, appraisers, attorneys, and clients to keep deals on track, minimizing costly delays.

Financing CRE today isn’t simple—but with the right strategy and the right team, deals are still getting done. The key is having a brokerage partner who understands today’s financing landscape, has relationships with diverse capital sources, and knows how to structure deals that work in the current market.

At DWG Capital Group, that’s exactly what we do: help our clients navigate challenges, unlock opportunities, and close with confidence.