Built-for-Rent Single Family: the Strongest Niche in Real Estate

Followed and Endorsed by Capital Firms and Developers

in this Sector

“As the BFR space is emerging, Brad and his team have a unique perspective on product and market segmentation that differentiates them from their peers and is valuable to investors as they make IRR-driven decisions.”

-Margaret Whelan, Whelan Advisory (placed close to $1 billion in capital for BFR so far)

"Hunter Housing Economics' built-for-rent market studies are unparalleled."

- A National Built-for-Rent Developer/Operator and Repeat Client of the Firm

Our BFR Forecast (Units)

The outlook for unit-volume in BTR, shown above, is adjusted to account for today's heightened scrutiny and selectivity concerning BTR development deals as well as effect of the sudden recent adjustment of cap rates. Contrary to what most commentators are stating, the total level of activity in BFR is close to 120,000 units annually already. This a national rollup. Regionally, it is expected that the Sunbelt will continue to garner a disproportionate share of the volume growth.

BFR Research and Commentary

Wall Street Journal, June 7, 2021

Our forecasts of built-for-rent investment and production, as cited in the Journal.

Discussing BFR Strategies

In the webinar clip below by the Housing Innovation Alliance, Brad talked about how even with the huge number of new players coming in, new supply is going to fall short of demand for the next five years. He discusses strategies with two of the larger players in this space. Click below to watch:

2023 Outlook: There have been some headwinds in late 2022 and into March 2023, but we are projecting 5%-6% rent growth in BFR communities in the years 2024 and 2025. Click to hear the discussion of this forecast, leasing pace, pipeline, and other issues that are on the minds of BFR developers and capital.

Research and Forecasts Cited in Wall Street Journal

WSJ, June 4, 2021: Citing our forecasts of segments of renters who choose BFR, and our forecast of growing demand (forecast revised higher than this recently!)

Presentation on BFR Strategy, IBSx 2021

Brad Hunter presented a one-hour long Building Knowledge session, drawing upon our case studies and a wide array of research, and discussing ways to maximize rents and absorption amid an increasingly competitive field. CLICK BELOW for a six-minute clip focusing on ways builders can think about getting involved.

"Built-for-Rent: Single-Family and Townhome Trends and Strategies for Builders and Developers."

(Jan. 2023) In Forbes, on The BFR Forecast (clickable)

The Two Fastest-Growing Types Of Built-For-Rent

BTR Data Check: Selected Markets and Submarkets