AUSTIN-The CBD and southern submarkets will be the ones to watch when the market starts its recovery, says Holliday Fenoglio Fowler in its latest "White Paper." Rents will remain flat, possibly even backslide, until the calendar turns.

AUSTIN-EZCorp.'s third fiscal quarter shows 40 properties have passed through a sale/leaseback transaction, upping rent expenses by $700,000 over last year's actual. The increase is offset by interest and depreciation cuts.

SAN ANTONIO-REOC Partners research says little new construction and a smaller amount of sublease space puts San Antonio in a position to recover quickly. The effects, however, will take until 2003 to make themselves felt.

AUSTIN-Sheraton owner Thayer Lodging Group will undertake a $3 million renovation to the property, and rename the hotel. The 254-room building is set to reopen as the Crowne Plaza Austin Hotel and Executive Meeting Center on Aug 1.

SAN ANTONIO-REOC Partners research says little new construction and a smaller amount of sublease space puts San Antonio in a position to recover quickly. The effects, however, will take until 2003 to make themselves felt.

SAN ANTONIO-In assuming HUD loans, M&A Apartments moves into the US Navy's homeport market. The two building-purchase is currently 90% occupied.

AUSTIN-The Boise, ID-based chain gears up to challenge Austin's top grocer, H-E-B, based in San Antonio. Spending plans call for new stores, fuel centers and remodeling existing facilities.

AUSTIN-Hospital Housekeeping Systems Inc. intends to occupy the historic downtown Austin building as its new headquarters. Owner-occupied deals continue to bouy building sales, bringing a rare ray of hope to the struggling Austin market.