Industry News: Data Center Opportunities, Latest on Potential Mexican Tariffs, and California Wildfires Impact on Housing
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Episode Overview
In the first industry news episode of 2025, Ryan Glick and Charles Covey discuss the latest headlines impacting land development. They begin with the booming data center market and how advancements in AI are driving this niche real estate sector. With long-term leases and unique site requirements, Ryan and Charles explore whether data centers are a viable opportunity for most developers or a risky overbuild waiting to happen.
Next, the conversation shifts to nearshoring and its transformative impact on U.S.-Mexico trade and logistics. As manufacturers move closer to the U.S., they discuss how this trend is reshaping industrial land use and the potential challenges posed by geopolitical tensions, including the threat of tariffs.
The episode then turns to California’s devastating wildfires, which have caused billions in damages and worsened the nation’s housing affordability crisis. Ryan and Charles analyze the implications for land markets, migration patterns, and nationwide insurance premiums, emphasizing the role of effective leadership and disaster preparedness.
Finally, they offer their perspectives on the broader geopolitical landscape, touching on intriguing ideas like potential U.S. territorial expansions. They wrap up with a reminder of the opportunities within the land development space, despite the challenges of an eventful start to the year.