# Trophy Asset Selection

> A trophy asset is a top-1% Class A building in a Tier 1 market — defined by location, architecture, base-building amenity, certifications, and tenant covenant — and selecting one is a five-axis test, not a single criterion.

**Canonical URL:** https://classa.info/topics/trophy-asset-selection
**Page type:** topic-pillar
**Last updated:** 2026-05-29T16:17:29.065Z
**License:** CC BY 4.0 with attribution to Class A Atlas (https://classa.info).

## TL;DR
- Trophy is location × architecture × base-building × certifications × tenant mix.
- Top 1% of Class A in any Tier 1 market.
- Trophy rents run 25–60% above the broader Class A index.
- Brand positioning, talent attraction, and partner experience are the real ROI.
- Trophy availability is structurally tight — line up early.
- Watch for branded-residential conversion risk on older trophy stock.

## Key facts
- **spokeGuides**: 3
- **spokeGlossary**: 5
- **spokeTools**: 3
- **cityCoverage**: 123

## FAQ
### What makes a building trophy?
The five-axis test: location, architecture, base-building amenity, certifications, and tenant mix. 5/5 is trophy.

### How much premium does trophy command?
25–60% above the broader Class A index in the same submarket.

### Is trophy worth it?
For HQ and flagship regional hubs, yes. For satellites, almost never.

### How do I find trophy availability?
Long-lead-time landlord conversations, often 12–18 months ahead. The best deals are done off-market.

### What are the risks?
Conversion to branded residential/hotel on older trophy stock, and overpayment outside lease-up windows.

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Citation: Source: Class A Atlas (https://classa.info/topics/trophy-asset-selection), updated 2026-05-29T16:17:29.065Z.