CBRE to help Norwalk compete with Manhattan.

Matan Properties recently named CB Richard Ellis exclusive leasing agent for 535 Connecticut Ave. in Norwalk, Conn. The firm's Robert Gold and Tom Weinstock will oversee the marketing of the building, assisted by CB Richard Ellis' consulting, marketing, communications and market research departments.

535 Connecticut Ave. is a 173,120 s/f class A office property, strategically positioned along one of Fairfield county's most vibrant commercial corridors. Approximately 135,000 s/f of space are currently available in the building, which features such tenant amenities as an in-house cafeteria, covered parking, onsite management, proximity to banking, shopping and dining establishments and rapid access to the major transportation arteries of US-l, I-95, the Merritt Parkway and Route 7. Prominent signage is a possibility for a sizeable user. Current tenants include AG Edwards, DHL, American Express Financial Services and Quelsys.

A block of space such as that offered at 535 Connecticut Ave. presents a significant opportunity for a company looking to establish an identity in an increasingly influential business community. Over the past year, GE Commercial Finance, Marsh McLennan, Graham Capital, Gibbs College, Tauck World Discovery, William Mercer, Diageo and Hitachi Credit Corp. signed major leases in Norwalk, 535 Connecticut Avenue also has the capacity to efficiently accommodate users in a variety of size ranges. Contiguous blocks measure as much as 108,000 s/f and as little as 1,600 s/f. In addition, the building's ownership is embarking on a marketing plan that features flexible and aggressive terms for interested tenants. This tactic, according to Mr. Gold, gives Matan Properties and 535 Connecticut Ave. an advantage over many other properties.

"An educated owner who knows where the market is and plans to meet its challenges head on is a market maker," Gold said.

"We're really looking forward to working with them."

Mark Matan, President of Matan Properties, commented, "We are pleased to be working with CB Richard Ellis, a firm with extensive reach in the national and local market. Their efforts to present an opportunity of this size, along with our ability to make deals quickly and creatively, will make a solid and agile team. We look forward to making attractive deals at this wonderful asset."

Andrew Decry, Northeast Regional Director for Matan Properties, sees a great opportunity for national or regional headquarters or branch offices.

"With 2003 behind us, and some reasonable optimism about job growth and improving business conditions, we believe that we can offer a cost-effective alternative to New York City, Westchester and Stamford class A product," he said.

"Corporations seeking to lock in attractive long-term deals or those with shorter projections can both be accommodated at 535 Connecticut Ave. The accessibility, visibility and area amenities, combined with efficient floor plates, make this property a prime consideration for all tenants in the market."