Here’s How the Build-To-Rent Boom Is Re-Shaping Phoenix

Phoenix is ground zero for a new multifamily housing product gaining popularity across the nation: single family build-to-rent (BTR) communities. Sometimes referred to as low density multifamily or horizontal apartments, these BTR developments offer another option for renters who don’t want to live in multistory apartment buildings but can’t or won’t commit to a home purchase.

Would-be homeowners in Metro Phoenix have seen listings vanish nearly as soon as they appear online, sent in offer after offer only to be outbid by a cash buyer all while prices soared — home values are up 22% year-over-year, according to Zillow’s Home Value Index data.

To be sure, indicators such as increased inventory levels are showing a cooling of the housing market. Rising mortgage rates also discourage buyers from making a purchase — since much more of their monthly payment would go to interest — and instead they are pursuing other options, such as renting or simply staying put.

Brandon Harrington, managing director at NorthMarq, says that elevated home prices and the current interest rate environment make it difficult to qualify and afford a home mortgage, which is driving demand for multifamily options like BTR communities.

“I’m super bullish on multifamily, BTR and all forms of housing, because we do have a lack of supply,” Harrington explains. “We have major population growth, and we have huge job growth. A lot of those jobs aren’t even here yet, so I think we’re going to continue to see huge demand for housing going forward.”

Build-to-rent

Considering there isn’t consensus around the name of this product, it’s unsurprising that there are variations in how developers are approaching BTR. Jacque Petroulakis, executive vice president of marketing and investor relations at NexMetro, says that their communities are self-enclosed and are built to be leased in perpetuity.

“There are others out there that build scattered homes for rent that could easily be sold. That’s not our platform,” she says. “There are lots of ways to execute this offering, and ours is a professionally maintained, for lease, detached wall community, though we do have some duplexes.”

NexMetro has a significant presence in Metro Phoenix, with 23 communities either completed or under construction. Under the brand Avilla Homes, the developer offers one, two and three-bedroom floor plans along with a communal pool and pet-friendly recreation areas.

Another player in this burgeoning segment is Curve Development. Nate Pile, president and owner of Curve Development, notes that the overwhelming majority of BTR communities in Phoenix are in the horizontal apartment mold, which he defines as one, two and three-bedroom bungalow-style units without garages.

“Our model is centered around creating a community where you can’t tell whether it’s a rental or for sale home,” Pile continues. “[Our units] are actual single-family homes with two car garages and true backyards. Our goal is that if you rent it in our community, and your family came to visit, they’d have to ask you if you’re renting or not.”