INDUSTRY NEWS
Ally Waste CEO Named One of Waste360’s 40 Under 40

by Marlena DeFalco
James Crawley, CEO of Ally Waste, has been named to Waste360’s 40 Under 40 list, which recognizes emerging leaders making an impact across the waste and recycling industry. The honor reflects Crawley’s leadership in growing Ally Waste’s presence in multifamily waste and recycling services while advancing operational innovation, sustainability initiatives and resident-focused solutions throughout the sector.
Read the article in The Multifamily Journal
AvalonBay, EQR Merger to Create $69B Giant
by Paul Rosta
A merger between AvalonBay Communities and Equity Residential will create a $69 billion multifamily giant, dramatically reshaping the rental housing landscape. The combined portfolio will boost scale, operational reach and development capacity. Industry observers view the deal as another sign of ongoing consolidation among owners seeking efficiency and long-term growth.
Private Credit in Multifamily Is More Asset-Focused
by Erik Sherman
Private credit lenders in multifamily are increasingly underwriting deals based on the strength and performance of the real estate asset itself rather than the broader profile of the borrower. This reflects caution in capital markets and a focus on stable cash flow, occupancy and long‑term fundamentals as investors look for clearer signals of resilience and downside protection.
THOUGHT LEADERSHIP
The Best Advice You’ve Received in Your Career (Part 1)

by Jessica Fiur
Industry executives share the most valuable career advice they’ve received, offering lessons centered on resilience, curiosity, mentorship and relationship-building. Leaders across the multifamily sector emphasize the importance of listening, staying adaptable and maintaining integrity while navigating changing market conditions and professional challenges.
Read the article in Multi-Housing News
Adopting A Judicial Standard For Resident Appeals
by The Fair Housing Institute
A proposed judicial standard for resident appeals could reshape how eviction cases and housing disputes are handled, particularly for those navigating complex legal systems without representation. The discussion centers on creating more consistent review standards that balance property owner rights with due process protections for residents.
Why 2027 Will Be the Biggest Year for Office Conversions
by Travis Barrington
A wave of aging office properties, distressed valuations and expiring loan maturities is expected to make 2027 a record year for office conversions. Developers and investors are increasingly viewing adaptive reuse as a practical solution for ongoing affordable housing shortages. The trend is being driven by shifting workplace demands and favorable incentives.
MULTIFAMILY TECHNOLOGY
SmartRent Promotes Pankaj Bansi to Chief Operating Officer

by Marlena DeFalco
SmartRent has promoted Pankaj Bansi to chief operating officer, expanding his leadership role as the company accelerates its AI-focused transformation strategy. The promotion reflects SmartRent’s push to streamline processes, improve scalability and strengthen operational performance as smart technology adoption continues to grow.
Read the article in The Multifamily Journal
The Psychology of a 160-Character Message
by Tiffany De Alva
Effective resident texting requires more than brevity. Successful leasing and retention messages rely on timing, tone, clarity and emotional relevance to encourage engagement. In multifamily marketing, a well-crafted 160-character message can strengthen trust, increase replies and improve the overall resident experience.
Management Diaries: What’s New at Apartmentalize 2026
by Denile Doyle
Management Diaries previews what’s new at Apartmentalize 2026, focusing on how this year’s National Apartment Association conference is evolving to reflect current multifamily priorities. The discussion highlights shifting educational themes, including operational efficiency, AI-driven workflows and ROI-focused innovation.