As Investors Search for Tax-Efficient Strategies, Opportunity Zones Gain Renewed Attention

PHOENIX - June 3, 2026 - PRLog -- While much of the investment community remains focused on interest rates, stock market volatility, and commercial real estate pricing, a growing number of family offices and high-net-worth investors are revisiting a strategy many believe remains significantly underutilized: Opportunity Zones.

That trend was recently illustrated through the acquisition of two under-construction 7-Eleven properties totaling $17.8 million in the Phoenix metropolitan area by an East Coast family office. Both properties are located within federally designated Opportunity Zones and were selected not only for their underlying real estate fundamentals, but also for the tax planning opportunities available through the program.

Originally established under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, Opportunity Zones were designed to encourage private investment into designated communities by allowing investors to defer and potentially reduce taxes on eligible capital gains. Despite billions of dollars being invested nationwide, industry professionals say many investors, business owners, and advisors remain unfamiliar with how the program can fit into broader wealth management and exit-planning strategies.

"Many investors have heard of Opportunity Zones, but relatively few understand how powerful they can be when integrated into a long-term investment plan," said Axel Adler, Opportunity Zone Specialist with Centennial Advisers. "We routinely meet successful business owners, real estate investors, and individuals with concentrated stock positions who are surprised to learn they may have options beyond simply paying the capital gains tax immediately."

The Phoenix transactions reflect a growing trend among family offices seeking to combine tax efficiency with investments in markets benefiting from long-term economic growth. One property is located near major East Valley developments including Google's Project Redhawk and The Ranch mixed-use project, while the second is situated within the Deer Valley corridor near significant industrial and semiconductor investment, including development associated with Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC).

Industry experts note that Opportunity Zones are increasingly attracting attention from investors facing liquidity events, including the sale of businesses, highly appreciated real estate, concentrated stock positions, and private company interests.

"There's a growing recognition that Opportunity Zones are not just a real estate strategy," Adler said. "For many investors, they're becoming part of a broader conversation about capital gains planning, legacy planning, and long-term wealth preservation."

The $17.8 million acquisition was completed on behalf of an East Coast family office by Centennial Advisers, a commercial real estate advisory firm specializing in Opportunity Zone investments, commercial real estate, and tax-advantaged investment strategies.

More at http://www.centennialadvisers.com