But, they cautioned in the University of Florida’s survey of emerging market conditions, the situation probably won’t get much better anytime soon.

The market appears to be stabilizing, respondents said, citing an influx of money from investors here and abroad looking for the best deals. And more deals are expected to emerge as banks shed troubled properties.

According to the survey, the willingness of life insurance companies to invest again in commercial property was a plus, but bleak unemployment numbers, the tough retail and office market and difficulty getting commercial banks to offer loans are all negatives.

The survey gave South Florida a strong showing in part due foreign investment and the area’s diverse economies.