SEATTLE, WA-The financial community seems to regard the opening of the branch - after the recent opening of a Goldman Sachs office and in the midst of a struggling - as a strong statement of confidence in the city's economic future.

ATLANTA-Houston-based Hanover Cos. is buying a 1.47-acre block from Centennial Olympic Park Area Inc. for $3.1 million or $2.1 million per acre ($48.41 per sf). The Texas developer plans 250 loft apartments on the site after the deal closes in April.

DENVER-Minute Spot LLC and Hope Communities Inc. are teaming for a near $12.3-million project in the city's most economically disadvantaged neighborhoods. The project will bring affordable housing and 16,000 sf of commercial space.

CHICAGO-The Downtown vacancy rate, 8%, is at its lowest point in 18 years. A year ago it was 9.4%. The net amount of space leased July through September was 638,463 sf, compared to 102,079 sf during the third quarter of 1999.