DENVER-Although retail sales dipped in September, it was less than previous months, experts note, while the area unemployment rate remains steady. Some foresee a strong finish to the year.

BOSTON-Konover & Associates Inc.'s sale of its 4.2 million sf retail portfolio for $250 million to a joint venture between Edens & Avant and Samuels & Associates is nearly complete with closings done on 27 of the 35 properties.

ROUND ROCK, TX-Robert Wunsch of RDW Development is ready to build on his La Frontera land. The tract, once destined for an office building, will now house 41,000 sf of high-end retail. Bank One and Tweeter already are signed.

SAN ANTONIO-Tomorrow, the Rouse Cos. and USAA will get the crews going on the long-awaited Shops at La Cantera. The northwest submarket center, part of a 1,677-acre development, is carrying a fall 2004 opening date.