THOUGHT LEADERSHIP
What’s the Outlook for Occupancy and Operations?
by Ed Wolff
The multifamily rental market is experiencing shifts as new units arrive. Occupancy rates are stabilizing, more concessions are driving movement to Class A properties and rent growth has slowed in 2024, down to 3-4% nationally. Owners and operators are increasingly leveraging technology for efficiency, particularly in rent collection and data-driven decision-making. Future success will depend on balancing technological innovation with human-centered management.
Read the article in The Multifamily Journal
The Power of Empathy in CRE Negotiations
by Joe Killinger
Empathy can be a powerful tool in commercial real estate (CRE) negotiations. By understanding the motivations of the other party, negotiators can build stronger relationships, create win-win solutions and foster long-term partnerships. Empathy helps in navigating complex deals with better communication and trust.
Does Interior Design Really Impact Residents’ Health?
by Beata Lorincz
Believe it or not, interior design can significantly impact residents’ health. By integrating principles like lighting, acoustics, color and ergonomics, well-designed spaces enhance mental, emotional and physical well-being. The role of beauty in triggering positive neurological responses contributes to feelings of calm and comfort.
MULTIFAMILY TECHNOLOGY
Embracing AI With Confidence and Compliance in 2025
by Matt Ruedlinger and Courtney Linderson
Insights from Rent.’s upcoming multifamily marketing study reveal that many marketers are excited about AI — they just don’t know where to start. Nishant Phadnis, Chief Product Officer at Rent., shares the excitement of AI in multifamily marketing. Whether it’s more traditional AI, such as chatbots and automated communication, or more progressive and predictive AI, like targeting and photo optimization in listings, Phadnis explains how to start exploring different AI tools and how to prevent the pressure from overshadowing the adventure.
Listen to the podcast at Apartments on the Go
Firms Announce Major Funding, Multifamily Solutions
by Christine Serlin
In the latest proptech news, Aerwave announced a $50 million initiative to expand managed Wi-Fi infrastructure in multifamily communities without upfront costs to owners. AerPays offers a debt-free solution for property owners to upgrade connectivity, enhancing the resident experience.
INDUSTRY NEWS
Multifamily Financing, Sales Volume Indexes Highest Since 2022
by Philippa Maister
The multifamily sector has seen its highest financing and sales volumes since 2022, according to the National Multifamily Housing Council’s recent survey. Debt and equity financing indexes improved, helped by a 50-basis-point interest rate cut. However, market tightness has loosened, particularly in regions with new construction, reflecting ongoing supply challenges.
Senior Housing Shows Resilience
by Bill Johnson
Senior housing has shown remarkable resilience, having bounced back from the pandemic’s challenges and the global financial crisis. Occupancy rates, which dipped during the early days of COVID-19, have steadily increased since 2021. The sector is now outperforming many others, proving its long-term strength and stability.
Seattle Owner Sues The City Over Resident Rules
by John Triplett
A Seattle multifamily owner is suing the city over protection laws, arguing that the regulations violate property rights and make managing rentals difficult. The lawsuit challenges rules on move-in fees, evictions and rent increases, seeking to overturn policies on the basis that they are overly burdensome for owners.