The 2012 Novemberfest was held in Cedar Rapids on November 19th and included a four hour educational program followed by a social hour and recognition luncheon. The morning program”Capital Markets and New Real Estate Development” focused on current economic issues on both a national and state level. The vitality of both the economy and the capital markets are important elements that effect commercial and residential real estate development. With 2012 being an election year and the economy still reeling from the effects of the “recession”, the information presented was very timely and insightful. David Halfpap, a senior vice president with AEGON, addressed the issues on a national level. Dave Swenson, an Associate Scientist from the department of economics at Iowa State University, presented information on the state level (view his presentation here), and Mike Espeset, the president of Story Construction, spoke on his prognosis of issues concerning the construction industry. Following the presentations, there was a social hour that provided an opportunity to network with appraisers from across the state. A luncheon was provided and concluded with the installation of the new officers and board members for 2013.