WASHINGTON, DC-Despite the economic slowdowns, the nation's office vacancy rate declined for the sixth consecutive quarter, according to a Grubb & Ellis Market Report. Rental rates continue rising and new construction is also up.

AUSTIN-Canyon Oaks, a 562-unit multifamily project in south Austin, has reason to party. A new tenant's application marks the 500,000th online transaction for Denver-based SafeRent. The merriment crosses state borders as Canyon Oaks' staff receives a party in a box from Denver.

DALLAS-Sterling Media Capital Group's board chairman is taking over the CEO's role in a shuffle that puts the current CEO into the presidency's chair. Paul A. Nussbaum is replacing Dwight Pierce, who is now the president. Pierce will retain his board seat with the change.