INDUSTRY NEWS
SmartRent Launches Product Advisory Council
by Doug Pike
SmartRent has launched a new Product Advisory Council comprising senior executives from top rental-housing organizations. The council will help shape SmartRent’s technology roadmap by previewing ideas, exchanging insights and offering direct feedback on product features and functionality. With an installed base of over 870,000 rental units, SmartRent sees the council as a way to address multifamily pain points, boost efficiency and elevate the resident experience.
Read the article in The Multifamily Journal
Apartment Rents Poised for a 2026 Comeback
by Kristen Smithberg
After a brief slowdown in late 2025, rents are projected to rise again in 2026. Analysts expect a national increase of roughly 2.3%, with Midwestern and coastal markets such as Cincinnati, Miami, Seattle and Los Angeles likely to experience growth of 3% or more as demand strengthens and supply begins to balance across key metro areas, positively impacting investors.
LA Lowers Rent Increase Cap For 74% Of Multifamily Housing
by Bianca Barragan
After a brief slowdown in late 2025, multifamily rents are projected to rise again in 2026. Analysts expect a national increase of roughly 2.3%, with major markets such as Miami, Seattle and Los Angeles likely to experience growth of 3% or more as demand strengthens and supply begins to balance across key metro areas, positively impacting investors.
THOUGHT LEADERSHIP
Travel’s Not for the Weak-Backed: Notes from a Road Warrior
by Joe Summers
A seasoned business road warrior reflects on the physical toll of constant travel, from cramped airplane seats to unsupportive hotel beds. After decades on the road, travel has become less of a thrill and more of a back‑ache marathon. Still, human connections—hallway handshakes, in‑person conversations and conference laughter—make it worthwhile, keeping him on the move despite the body’s protests.
Read the article in Ancillary Services Management
Understanding Your Residents: The Renter by Choice
by Anca Gagiuc
Renters by choice prioritize freedom, flexibility and service over homeownership. They value hotel‑style convenience, scalable design and amenities that shift burdens away from them. Communities that package flexible lease terms, curated services and transparent pricing are poised to compete with mortgages.
Brand Research into Resident Resonance
by Stacey Feeney
Brand research in multifamily housing is about creating emotional connections. Companies are digging into resident data to uncover what makes people feel a sense of belonging, enabling storytelling and brand identities that resonate. This focus on experience over structure leads to stronger resident loyalty and improved renewals.
MULTIFAMILY TECHNOLOGY
How the Preiss Co. Turns New Tech Into Real Results
by Stephen Ursery
The Preiss Co. has made purposeful innovation its guiding principle, implementing emerging technologies only when they clearly enhance resident and employee experiences, boost operational efficiency and justify the investment. The company encourages early exposure to new tech, but insists the business case follows quickly and isn’t afraid to pull back if things don’t work. Innovation, Preiss argues, must be intentional, not just flashy.
Read the article in Multifamily Executive
Distinct Expectations: How Do You Do, Gen Z?
by Paul Willis
Gen Z residents have distinct expectations, favoring seamless, app-driven living that integrates leasing, guest access, work-order management and more. Properties that provide intuitive digital experiences, responsive communication and modern amenities are better positioned to attract and retain this generation.
Chatbot Gambit Replaces Leasing Agents with AI
by Franco Faraudo
Operators in the multifamily sector are increasingly replacing human leasing agents with AI chatbots that engage prospects 24/7, answer questions immediately and nurture leads at scale. While cost savings and responsiveness improve, the shift raises concerns about diminished personalization, weaker service and over-reliance on tech.