AUSTIN-It's just the first of several buys in Texas, says the Shidler Group. Operating through its San Diego regional office, the investor has paid $56.5 million for its first Austin buy and is close to sealing a deal in Houston. Still looking in Dallas, says a partner.

SAN CLEMENTE, CA-Michaels Stores will open a larger than average retail outlet with the lease of 23,600 sf of retail space in the Plaza Pacifica center.

SPOKANE, WA-With vacancy rates falling, lease rates on the rise and capitalization rates here averaging 10%, investors are beginning to take a harder look at the Spokane apartment market, according local brokers and a recent study.

DETROIT-All Southeast Michigan stores are spared, but the Plano, TX-based retailer is closing its 23,000-sf store in Ironwood, MI. The store has been operating since 1991 in the Ironwood Commons Shopping Plaza.