All posts by Shelby

York Gives: Winter Warmth for SouthLight Healthcare

Did you know that Southlight Healthcare is North Carolina’s largest single-site opioid treatment provider? After learning more about their incredible impact, our team came together to assemble 150 winter-prep bags for their clients. Each package included a scarf, warm hat, gloves, socks, hand warmers, and a personal note of encouragement—ready to help someone facing homelessness stay warm this season.

We’re proud to support SouthLight’s mission where no one is turned away and hope is offered to hundreds every day. Special thanks to board chair George York for making this opportunity possible.

 

SOLD: 2828 Industrial Drive

Congratulations to our valued clients, York Family Properties and Bell Investments LLC, on the sale of 2828 Industrial Drive. The 42,000 SF industrial building sits on 4.59 acres in the Midtown East submarket of Raleigh.

John Kerr represented York Family Properties and Bell Investments LLC in this sales transaction.

55 Years of Leadership Raleigh

York Properties is a proud sponsor of (and active participant in!) the Leadership Raleigh program.

Fun fact: Smedes York is a graduate of LR class number ONE!

It was great to reconnect and celebrate the impact this program has had on our city over the past 55 years. Cheers to the leaders shaping Raleigh’s future and the legacy that started with LR’s very first class!

 

Scale symbolizing housing market imbalance in North Carolina, tipped toward high demand and low supply.

Middle-Class Housing in Crisis: North Carolina’s Shortage Threatens CRE Growth and Workforce

North Carolina stands at a critical crossroads when it comes to housing and workforce stability. A sweeping new study forecasts a staggering gap of 764,000 housing units by 2029, underscoring the depth of the state’s housing crisis. This shortage directly threatens North Carolina’s business community, as a lack of affordable homes is driving workers farther from jobs—making it harder for companies to attract and retain essential staff like teachers, healthcare workers, and first responders.​

The report notes that supply gaps affect all income groups, but middle-class and entry-level buyers face particular challenges. Only 0.8% of North Carolina homes are currently available for purchase, dramatically below the healthy 2-3% market standard, with just 2,324 homes statewide listed below $200,000. This limited availability and high pricing have raised the median age of homeowners to 61, compared with just 31 in 1981, reflecting the growing difficulty younger generations have in finding attainable housing.​

Recognizing this urgent need, the NC Chamber and key industry groups—including NC REALTORS® and the North Carolina Home Builders Association—are rallying behind a revised version of Senate Bill 205. This pivotal legislation strives to modernize zoning, promote affordability, and foster collaboration between developers and local governments, aiming to protect local authority while addressing the root causes of the shortage. By investing in both new construction and preservation strategies, and advocating for policy solutions like SB 205, North Carolina is taking bold steps to ensure that its workforce and business climate remain strong and competitive.​

As communities and companies look ahead, bold housing reform isn’t optional—it’s essential for building a prosperous future where opportunity is within reach for everyone.​

At York Properties, our 110-year tradition of service, expertise, and integrity continues to guide how we help businesses succeed in the Triangle’s dynamic commercial landscape. As a fourth-generation, family-led CRE firm, we know the success of our clients—and our region—depends on a stable workforce and vibrant community. While our company’s focus is on retail, office, industrial, and asset management, we’re committed to providing strategic advice, data-driven solutions, and deep local insights to help our clients navigate evolving market challenges and achieve great outcomes. Because at York Properties, our goal isn’t to be the biggest—it’s to be the best partner you have in commercial real estate.

Sources:

  • North Carolina Housing Finance Agency: “New Research Shows North Carolina Has a 764,000 Unit Housing Gap” (March 2025)
  • NC Chamber: Statewide Housing Study and Policy Statements (2025)
  • Carolina Journal: Coverage on housing affordability and related legislative developments (2025)
  • North Carolina Home Builders Association statements on legislative support (2025)
Maeve by Anthropologie store in Raleigh’s Village District featuring bold women’s fashion and modern design.

NOW OPEN: Maeve by Anthropologie

Get ready, Raleigh!

Maeve by Anthropologie is debuting its first-ever standalone store on October 1st! The label is known for its iconic statement pieces, blending timeless style with modern elements, and is sure to fit in perfectly in the Village District market. Congratulations to URBN and Anthropologie on this monumental step and welcome to Raleigh!

Lynne Worth was pleased to represent the landlord in this transaction.

Property Management Leadership Update

We’re excited to share important leadership news at York.

After nearly 30 years of remarkable leadership, Lamont Farmer will retire at the end of the year. Throughout her time with us, Lamont transformed our Property Management division into one of York’s strongest pillars, leaving behind a legacy of vision, stability, and opportunity.

As Lamont begins her well-earned retirement, we’re thrilled to announce that Amy Rogers has stepped into the role of Senior Vice President & Director of Property Management. Amy has grown with York over many years, earning trust and admiration with her dedication, attention to detail, and future-focused mindset.

This planned transition provides valuable continuity as Amy works alongside Lamont to ensure seamless operations and continued growth for our Property Management division and clients.

Please join us in congratulating Amy on her promotion and expressing our gratitude to Lamont for her outstanding contributions to York’s success over the past three decades.

CLOSED: 1232 E Firetower Road

Congratulations to our valued client on the successful sale of 1232 E. Fire Tower. This premier, ready-to-develop property is now set to unlock new opportunities in Greenville.

Our appreciation goes to Judson McMillan and Robert Hoyt for their professional representation of the seller in this transaction!

Brokerage Leadership Update

Congratulations to Brian Wallace and Judson McMillan who have each been promoted to Senior Vice President, Commercial Brokerage, joining John Kerr on the division’s leadership team.

Brian Wallace (20 years with York) will step in to lead collaboration and communication, guiding operations and strategy.

Judson McMillan, also with 20+ years at York and one of our top producers, will take the lead on business development efforts and client relationship growth.

Alongside John Kerr, whose nearly four decades of expertise continue to guide our team, this strengthened leadership group positions York for continued success, innovation, and client service excellence.

We are proud of the incredible talent within our firm, and we look forward to the impact Brian, Judson, and John will make in driving our Commercial Brokerage Division forward.

Please join us in congratulating Brian and Judson on this well-deserved achievement!