INDUSTRY NEWS
Grace Hill Announces Strategic Acquisition of HelloData
by Darcey Leach
Grace Hill has acquired HelloData, an AI-driven market analysis platform for multifamily communities. This strategic move enhances Grace Hill’s capabilities in delivering data-informed tools to owners and operators. HelloData’s platform offers insights into rents, concessions and amenities. The acquisition aims to provide multifamily professionals with actionable data to navigate market uncertainties and optimize operational efficiency.
Read the article in The Multifamily Journal
REBA Welcomes Annie Laurie McCulloh as COO
by Doug Pike
Real Estate Business Analytics (REBA) appointed industry veteran Annie Laurie McCulloh as Chief Operating Officer. With over 20 years of experience, McCulloh brings expertise in scaling operations and driving impactful change. Her addition will enhance REBA’s capabilities and support growing demand for its solutions.
Multifamily Investment Surges 33% as Vacancy Rates Drop
by Phillipa Maister
Multifamily investment surged 33% year-over-year in Q1 2025 to $28.8 billion as vacancy rates fell to 4.8%, marking the largest first-quarter decline on record. Net absorption soared 77%, outpacing new supply. Rents increased by 0.9%, signaling renewed investor confidence amid tightening inventory and broad demand.
THOUGHT LEADERSHIP
Modernizing Land-Constrained Cities from California to New York
by Tim Smith
Land-constrained cities across the country, from California to New York, are embracing innovative urban development strategies. These include adaptive reuse of existing structures, transformation of underutilized spaces and implementation of mixed-use zoning. These approaches are designed to address housing shortages, optimize land use and revitalize urban centers, offering valuable lessons for sustainable growth in densely populated areas.
Awesome Swag Your Residents Will Actually Want
by Jessica Fiur
The MHN Executive Council shares creative, resident-focused move-in gift ideas that go beyond generic swag. Suggestions include useful items like tumblers and local coffee blends, all aimed at enhancing community engagement. Thoughtful presentation and personalization make new residents feel genuinely welcomed and connected to their new home.
Repositioning Trends and Factors to Consider
by Scott Sowers
Multifamily property repositioning trends are currently focused on tailored upgrades aligned with resident demographics, including the popularity of amenities like pickleball courts and the importance of avoiding fleeting design trends. Experts advocate for a long-term, community-focused approach, ensuring renovations enhance resident satisfaction.
MULTIFAMILY TECHNOLOGY
Best Practices to Maximize GEO Search Results
by Suzann D. Silverman
Marketers in multifamily housing are honing their digital strategies to increase visibility in geographically targeted searches. By prioritizing neighborhood characteristics instead of individual property details, they align more effectively with AI search algorithms, which favor local amenities and community features. This strategy not only boosts online visibility but also draws in potential residents by adapting to shifts in search behaviors and preferences.
Read the article in Multi-Housing News
How to Use PPC Ads to Fill Your Lease-Up Fast
by Tiffany De Alva
Using pay-per-click (PPC) advertising can significantly speed up apartment lease-ups. Effective strategies include running pre-lease campaigns, focusing on location-specific targeting and optimizing ad copy and keywords. By finetuning these PPC approaches, properties can convert leads more efficiently and fill vacancies faster.
Student Living: The Future of Experience-Driven Housing
by Nathan Casteel
Student housing is transforming into immersive, experience-driven communities that prioritize wellness, sustainability and connection. Some developments blend amenities and mixed-use elements to foster vibrant environments. These projects reflect a shift toward lifestyle-oriented living that prepares students for future expectations.