CURRENT EVENTS

Why did the KeyBank tower in Downtown Columbus sell for $5.1 million at auction?

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The KeyBank tower sold for $5.1 million at auction due to the owner's loan default and foreclosure, reflecting struggles with declining occupancy and maintenance issues.

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Sale Price$5.1 million
Previous Price (2022)More than $12 million
Building Location88 E. Broad Street, Downtown Columbus
Occupancy RateAround 30%
Auction DatesApril 14-16, 2026
Owner DefaultBaruch Broad Street LLC defaulted on loan in 2024
Building Size256,000+ square feet of office space

Why the Sale Occurred

The KeyBank Building sold at a court-ordered foreclosure auction after the previous owner, Baruch Broad Street LLC, defaulted on a loan tied to its 2022 purchase for more than $12 million. A foreclosure case filed in 2024 ultimately led to the auction, which took place April 14-16, 2026.

Building Condition and Occupancy

The 21-story office tower has struggled with declining occupancy, estimated at around 30%. Tenants cited significant maintenance issues in recent years, including heating and cooling problems, water leaks, and deferred upkeep, according to court records. The building contains over 256,000 square feet of office space.

Auction Details and Price Decline

The online auction drew multiple bidders with an opening bid set at $1 million. The final sale price of $5.1 million represents a steep decline from the 2022 transaction price of over $12 million. The winning bidder's identity has not been disclosed by the broker overseeing the receivership sale.

Broader Market Context

The sale reflects broader uncertainty in Downtown Columbus's commercial real estate market. Earlier in April 2026, a major proposed $600 million Capitol Square Renaissance redevelopment project was halted due to current economic and market conditions, despite continued confidence in the downtown area's long-term outlook.

Sources

  1. KeyBank tower in Downtown Columbus sells for $5.1 million at auction (aol.com)
  2. MetroHealth Celebrates $1.5 million KeyBank Foundation Investment Supporting Opportunity Centers (finance.yahoo.com)