2026 Mid-Year Review: Tal Hartstein, Saunders Real Estate

What projects, initiatives, or types of work have been keeping your team busiest during the first half of 2026?
The first half of 2026 has been largely focused on improving and reinvesting in our buildings. We’ve undertaken a number of upgrades to our common areas, amenities, and infrastructure, all aimed at enhancing the tenant experience with Saunders Real Estate and keeping our properties well-positioned in the market. At the same time, we’ve been especially mindful of preserving the history, character, and prestige of our buildings. The goal isn’t to erase what makes the Saunders properties unique, but to thoughtfully update them in a way that respects their legacy while meeting the expectations of today’s tenants.

What trends or shifts have stood out most to you so far this year within your industry?
The biggest trend I’ve noticed is the continued evolution of return-to-office strategies. More companies are realizing the value of having employees together in person, whether for collaboration, culture, or innovation. We’re also continuing to see a strong flight-to-quality, with tenants gravitating toward buildings that offer an exceptional workplace experience. Those two trends are really shaping the market right now

What challenges or opportunities have had the biggest impact on your business during the first half of 2026?
The biggest factor impacting our business during the first half of 2026 has been the continued focus on quality. Tenants are more selective than ever and are gravitating toward buildings that offer a strong location, exceptional upkeep, and a high-quality experience. That has created an opportunity for us, as we’ve continued to invest in our properties through thoughtful upgrades that enhance our buildings while preserving the character and history that make them so special. At the same time, higher operating costs and construction expenses remain a challenge, making it even more important to be strategic about where we invest capital. Overall, the market continues to reward owners who are committed to maintaining and improving their assets over the long term.