Multifamily Rents Drop While Single-family Rents Stay Resilient

In wake of the COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent global shifts in the economy, the real estate industry has experienced unprecedented changes. One significant trend that has recently emerged is the widespread decline of multifamily rents. According to Moneywatch, apartment rental prices have dropped in every major metropolitan statistical area across the nation for the past 7 months and beyond. While the multifamily sector has historically been considered a stable investment, the pandemic has disrupted the market in unexpected ways. Conversely, single-family residential (“SFR”) homes have proven to be a reliable asset class amidst the economic downturn. This blog aims to explore the reasons behind the decline of multifamily rents and the resilience of SFR rental rates, as well as the potential long-term implications for the real estate market.

Market Saturation: The Culprit Behind Multifamily Rent Decreases

Market saturation has been identified as one of the primary factors causing the recent decline in multifamily rents. With new apartment complexes being built at a rapid pace, the supply of rental units has increased significantly in many areas. As a result, renters now have more options to choose from, which gives them more bargaining power when it comes to negotiating lease terms and rental rates.

This increased competition among landlords to attract tenants has resulted in a downward pressure on rental rates. In addition, the COVID-19 pandemic has played a role in decreasing demand for multifamily units. Many young renters have opted to move in with family or friends to save costs, or have sought alternative housing options that involved less proximity and interactions with strangers, such as single-family homes.

While the multifamily rental market is currently facing a challenging period (sales prices have also dropped on apartments by 12% year over year according to MSCI), there are some silver linings for renters. As rental rates decline, more individuals and families may be able to afford to move into newer rental units or be able to rent in areas that were previously out of their budget. Additionally, multifamily landlords may need to become more creative with their leasing strategies and offer additional amenities or incentives to attract tenants.

Overall, it’s important for investors and real estate professionals to stay informed about market trends and take a measured approach when it comes to investing in multifamily rental properties in saturated markets. Understanding the factors behind rent decreases can help inform decision-making and lead to more successful outcomes.

Single-Family Rentals Prove Resilient Amidst Multifamily Rent Drops

While the multifamily rental market has seen a decline in rental rates due to market saturation and the COVID-19 pandemic, the single-family rental market has proven to be resilient. In fact, demand for single-family rentals has increased in many areas, driven by factors such as changing demographics and preferences for more space and privacy.

One reason for the resilience of single-family rentals is that they offer a unique value proposition to renters. Unlike multifamily properties, single-family rentals often offer tenants additional spaces not commonly available at apartments such as separate yards, garages, and study rooms. This added space and privacy has become increasingly important during and post-pandemic, as more people are accustomed to spending time at home for both work and leisure.

Unlike multifamily properties, single-family rentals offer tenants additional spaces not commonly available at apartments such as separate yards, garages, and study rooms.

While the single-family rental market may not be immune to the broader economic trends impacting the real estate industry, it has demonstrated its resilience in the face of market challenges. By staying attuned to changing consumer preferences and market conditions, investors and professionals in the single-family rental market can continue to capitalize on the opportunities presented by this segment of the real estate industry.

Conclusion:

The space, privacy and relative affordability of SFR homes compared to multifamily units have made them an attractive option for many renters, particularly in suburban and rural areas. While the long-term impact of the pandemic on the real estate market remains uncertain, the current trend of declining multifamily rents and resilient SFR rents is likely to continue in the near future. Real estate investors and developers should adapt to these changing market conditions and carefully consider the potential long-term implications for their investments. Overall, these rental trends highlight the dynamic and constantly evolving nature of the rental housing market.

Are you looking to finance your multifamily or single-family rental investment? CoreVest is a leading provider of financing solutions to residential real estate investors. We provide attractive long-term debt products for stabilized rental properties as well as short term bridge loans for fix and flip. For more information about how CoreVest can help grow your rental and rehab business, please call Mario Navarrete at 949.936.0007 or email [email protected].