DALLAS-The Real Estate Council of Dallas brings in three heavy-hitters, all saying their companies aren't taking a pass on buying this year. These changing times require changing strategies.

PHOENIX-Overall vacancy in metro Phoenix spiked to 9.84% at the close of 2001, up from 7.38% a year earlier. What will 2002 bring? Another 2% increase, says a leading executive. The good news is that all submarkets escaped negative absorption.

PHOENIX-Aries Capital's Phoenix office closes what could be the first of 15 refinancing deals for Victory Packaging of Phoenix. Aries' president says the strategy sets the stage for an expansion. More than $2.6 million is secured by a 152,000-sf warehouse.

DALLAS-The Real Estate Council of Dallas brings in three heavy-hitters, all saying their companies aren't taking a pass on buying this year. These changing times require changing strategies.

PHOENIX-Encore Management of Scottsdale sells two multifamily properties in Phoenix while the Kansas owner of a student-housing project in Tucson also finds a buyer. The sold list is Christown Manor, Highland Arms and the Block House.

PHOENIX-EJM Development of Los Angeles tickets February for a second-phase start at its 19th & Pinnacle Peak Commerceplex in Deer Valley. A third phase is on the 2002 drawing boards while the developer talks about retail for the premier corner tract.

PHOENIX-DPR Construction crews descend on the Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center in Phoenix. The long-awaited project brings more beds, more clinic space, more parking and a bevy of other upgrades to the 91-year-old facility.

PHOENIX-Harsch Investment Properties of Portland gets $5.6 million for the last of its multifamily properties in Arizona. The plan is to focus on Las Vegas industrial product and properties in the Northwest. An Arizona retail holding is not for sale.