ORLANDO—Like any other major metro, Orlando has plenty of opportunities—and plenty of challenges. Some point to dark offices in the urban core as dragging down occupancy. Others cite transportation challenges that continue to plague the city.

GlobeSt.com caught up with Doug Kinson, director of Calkain Companies, to get pick his brain about commercial real estate challenges coming down Orlando's pike in advance of RealShare Central Florida.

GlobeSt.com: How does Central Florida compete against other Florida regions? Is Central Florida gaining momentum?

Kinson: Wawa's commitment to expansion along the Interstate 4 corridor speaks volumes about Central Florida's ability to be able to compete with other MSAs in the state. In addition, the University of Central Florida is a gem that will always supply an educated workforce, which, in turn, will attract future companies and bring jobs to the region.

GlobeSt.com: What are the biggest opportunities for investors in Central Florida?

Kinson: The greatest opportunities for investors seeking higher yields are yet to come. Rising interest rates will apply upward pressure on yield, resulting in a greater attraction and focus on investments across the region.

GlobeSt.com: What are the biggest challenges for Central Florida commercial real estate?

Kinson: The greatest challenges for Central Florida commercial real estate include continued economic growth and expansion, expectation of rising interest rates, supply of quality net lease investments, and transportation related issues, such as the six-year construction of Interstate 4 corridor and interchanges.