The rental market has recently undergone drastic changes, with monthly rental rates increasing at the fastest pace since the 1980s. While this has been beneficial for landlords, it has created financial burdens for average renters. However, there is hope on the horizon. The increasing supply of new multifamily housing units suggests that renters may soon experience some relief. That way, the extra money, you can put to good use. In this article, we will explore the current state of the rental market, the anticipated increase in housing supply, and the potential impact this shift could have on renters and residential landlords.
See Also: What are Money Orders and How Do They Work?
The Current State of the Rental Market
In recent times, the rental market has been characterized by an imbalance of supply and demand, giving landlords the upper hand. Monthly rental rates have significantly increased, making it challenging for renters to afford their homes. This trend has led to a higher demand for affordable housing, as more renters are being priced out of their desired living situations.
This supply-demand imbalance has provided landlords with high returns on investment and the opportunity to maximize profits.
View this post on Instagram
The Upcoming Increase in Multifamily Housing
To address the increased demand for affordable housing, the supply side is expected to receive a substantial boost. According to CoStar Research, an estimated 520,000 new multifamily housing units are projected to enter the market this year, the highest number since the 1980s. Additionally, another 440,000 units are anticipated to enter the market next year. These new developments will increase the available housing options for renters.
See Also: Why Business Owners Need An Estate Plan
The Effects of Increased Supply on Rental Vacancy Rates
We are already seeing signs of change in the market, with rental vacancy rates beginning to increase modestly. Although starting from the lowest rate since the 1980s, this rise in vacancy rates indicates that renting is gradually becoming more accessible to the average American. As more units become available, the previously tight market should loosen, leading to decreasing monthly rent costs.
Renters Rejoice: The Downward Pressure on Monthly Rents
With the increase in housing supply, renters can expect a decrease in monthly rental rates. This downward pressure on rents is a welcomed sign for those struggling with the high costs associated with renting in today’s market. Lower rent prices could create opportunities for individuals and families to secure housing in higher quality or better-located properties, thereby improving their overall quality of life. It is important to note that these effects may not be immediate, but rather a gradual decline as the new units are introduced into the market.
The Potential Impact on Residential Landlords
While this shift in the rental market might bring much-needed relief for renters, the same cannot necessarily be said for residential landlords. With more supply entering the market and decreased demand for existing units, landlords may need to adjust their strategies and prepare for potential vacancies. They may need to become more competitive in pricing, offer amenities, and incentives, or invest in property improvements to maintain tenant satisfaction and occupancy rates.
Conclusion
The rental market is on the cusp of a significant change, with an influx of new multifamily housing units set to enter the market over the next two years. This increased supply should help alleviate the current imbalance between supply and demand, ultimately leading to a welcomed decrease in monthly rental rates for renters. However, this change also poses challenges for residential landlords who must adapt to this shift in the market. As the rental market landscape continues to evolve, only time will reveal the ongoing impacts these changes will have on both renters and landlords moving forward.
FAQ
1. How has the rental market been changing recently?
The rental market has experienced drastic changes, with monthly rental rates increasing at the fastest pace since the 1980s. This has created a financial burden for the average renter while benefiting landlords.
2. What has caused the supply and demand imbalance in the rental market?
The supply and demand imbalance in the rental market has given landlords the upper hand. The increased demand for affordable housing has led to higher rental rates, making it more difficult for renters to afford their homes.
3. Is there relief on the horizon for renters?
Yes, there is relief on the horizon for renters. The supply side is expected to significantly boost with the anticipated entry of 520,000 new multifamily housing units into the market this year, the highest number since the 1980s. Another 440,000 units are expected to enter the market next year, increasing available housing options for renters.
4. What effects can be expected from the increased housing supply?
As rental vacancy rates increase, renting is gradually becoming more accessible to the average American. The previously tight rental market should loosen, leading to a decrease in monthly rent costs.
5. How will the increase in housing supply impact renters?
With the increase in housing supply, renters can anticipate a decrease in monthly rental rates. This decrease will provide relief for renters struggling with high rental costs. It may enable them to secure housing in higher quality or better-located properties, improving their overall quality of life.
6. What potential challenges do residential landlords face with increased housing supply?
Residential landlords may need to adjust their strategy and prepare for potential vacancies as more supply enters the market and demand decreases for existing units. They may need to become more competitive in pricing, offer amenities, and incentives, or invest in property improvements to maintain tenant satisfaction and occupancy rates.
7. When can renters expect to see the effects of increased housing supply?
The effects of increased housing supply may not be immediate but rather a gradual decline in rental costs as the new units are introduced into the market.
8. How will these changes impact both renters and landlords moving forward?
The influx of new housing units is expected to decrease monthly rental rates for renters. However, residential landlords may need to adapt to this shift in the market and make adjustments to maintain tenant satisfaction and occupancy rates. The ongoing impact of these changes on renters and landlords will depend on how the rental market continues to evolve.
Featured Image: by Yaopey Yong on Unsplash – Thank you!
