Institutional investors in Europe and the US are increasing their allocation to property, according to private equity company JE Robert Companies.

In a survey published today, JER said 60% of 245 executives from financial institutions, endowments and foundations, who were surveyed, said their mandates for property were growing.

Michael Pralle, president and chief operating officer of JE Robert Companies, said: ‘It is encouraging to learn that despite the current turmoil in the overall financial markets, investor appetite for commercial real estate continues to grow.’

Of the most popular regions to invest in, 44% chose North America, 30% chose Asia and just 18% selected Europe.

The survey also revealed that 45% of respondents said senior management was the most important factor in selecting an investment partner, followed by performance which 34% preferred and history or reputation, which 17% preferred.