CRANFORD, NJ-The REIT plans to use the net proceeds mostly to repay outstanding unsecured debt. Company officials call it another step in strengthening its financial position.

BOSTON-Locally based Corporate Realty Investment Corp. has entered into a $20.5-million sale/leaseback deal with Fiat SpA, the Italian car manufacturer. The 23-acre property is located in Alabama and will be occupied by a Fiat subsidiary.

KANSAS CITY-Gould Evans Goodman Associates hires senior project designer, CADD manager, communications assistant. The new hires include a homecoming, as David Reid rejoins the firm after a stint at WRS Architects.

BERKELEY, CA-Rosen Consulting Group examines more than 850 leases and surveys companies representing 45,000 employees and 16 million sf of space to come up with a couple of different possibilities for vacancies and rates through 2005.