The Rent Roll with Jay Parsons

Rental housing economist Jay Parsons recaps his six big takeaways from the apartment REITs' first quarter earnings calls that just wrapped up — starting with the big news that leaked after hours, the rumored merger discussions between AvalonBay and Equity Residential. What would be the implications of merging two of the biggest names in multifamily? Jay also shares color and highlights from the REITs' calls — touching on spring leasing momentum, rents, the big push toward stock buybacks over acquisitions, and differences between key markets across the U.S. Jay also shares the latest news on the ROAD to Housing Act, which took a positive turn this week as Politico reported the White House was pulling its support for the Senate legislation that effectively bans most build-to-rent construction. Also in the program, Jay welcomes in veteran Wall Street REIT analyst Alexander Goldfarb of Piper Sandler, who shares his take on the last rounding of earnings calls, the potential merger between AVB and EQR, and his thoughts on why REIT investors value apartments below net asset value.

Rental housing economist Jay Parsons breaks down the latest data on spring leasing trends, explains why supply is still a headwind even as completions decline, and answers the popular question: Why do different data providers show very different numbers for apartment occupancy right now? Additionally, Jay shares the latest buzz on Congress' potential ban on build-to-rent construction and single-family rental investments — and highlights the chorus of media articles trumpeting real facts to combat runaway narratives about institutional investors. Later in the program, Jay welcomes in proptech trends guru Dom Beveridge of 20 for 20 for a conversation on the latest trends in proptech and AI. Dom shares why his recent survey of apartment execs, asking about technology trends, found "exhaustion" as a key theme, as well as other key findings about what's moving the needle and what's to come.

What markets don't get the attention they might deserve? There's no "right answer," but rental housing economist Jay Parsons attempts to make such a list — highlighting markets that have outperformed the national averages on long-term rent growth and volatility, while not ranking among the top markets favored by institutional capital. Additionally, Jay welcomes in the founder and CEO of Bonaventure, Dwight Dunton, who shares his family's story of getting into the multifamily business, as well as what under-the-radar markets his firm targets. Jay also shares headlines from the week, including a new research paper arguing that the ROAD to Housing Act's limitations on single-family rental investment and construction are "unconstitutional thrice over." Jay also shares recurring segments like "Rental Housing Trivia," "Good News" and "Good Question." 

Terry Considine has nothing to prove. He has launched multiple REITs, including one (Aimco) that was at one point the nation's largest apartment owner. He sold a spin-off REIT (AIR Communities) to Blackstone. But even after that exit and 4+ decades in the apartment business, Terry Considine isn't done — now steering his latest apartment venture, Big 4 Properties. In this episode with host and rental housing economist Jay Parsons, Terry strolls down memory lane to his early years in the apartment business to the time when his portfolio topped 200,000 units to the wind-down of Aimco. Terry also shares why he's starting all over again, and what he's targeting at Big 4. Additionally in this episode, Jay shares his thoughts on the newly released 2026 NMHC Top Owners, Managers and Developers list — and in particular, why multifamily remains one of the nation's most fragmented major industries. 

Did the U.S. apartment sector see a March bounce for the start to leasing season? Rental housing economist Jay Parsons breaks down newly released data on apartment supply, demand and rents — and paints a picture of a market that is recovering, but at a plodding pace. For apartment investors and operators, the good news is that the chief headwind (supply) is largely in the rearview mirror. But the payoff has been anything but quick. There's still a supply overhang from 2023-25 to work through. Jay also shares the latest data on demand, and explores whether AI and soft job growth has impacted apartment absorption. Additionally, Jay welcomes in Cushman & Wakefield's multifamily research head, Sam Tenenbaum, for an extended conversation on the state of multifamily fundamentals and capital markets. Sam shares his take on the state of the apartment market across the U.S. Also, Jay shares his take on the latest headlines impacting apartments and single-family rentals — including another big platform sale plus the passing of one of multifamily's biggest names.

Rental housing economist Jay Parsons dives into the bizarrely regressive legislation that would effectively block most build-to-rent single-family home construction. In fact, as Jay shares, the legislation is already having a devastating impact on the BTR pipeline, even prior to the legislation's passage, due to sudden uncertainty around the sector's regulatory viability. Already, investors and lending are pausing new BTR projects. And that pause may last a while due to uncertainty around the bill's future, as well as hastily written language that leaves critical rules open interpretation by regulators after passage. One of the nation's largest BTR developers, Quinn Residences, is seeing that immediate impact firsthand. Quinn CEO Richard Ross joins the podcast to share real-time intel on the legislation's impact to BTR, and why the bill's proponents misunderstand key details about the sector. Richard directly addresses the popular myth that BTR developers would be building for-sale homes if they weren't building rentals, and shares why that is wrong. Additionally, pro-housing advocate Mike Kingsella — one of the leading voices on housing policy in D.C. through his organization Up For Growth — joins the podcast to share the latest intel on the bill's outlook on Capitol Hill, and also shares advice on what strategies and messages are best resonating with legislators. Furthermore, Jay shares the latest news on how the regulatory spotlight is already expanding from BTR to apartments and manufactured housing, as well, via threatening letters sent to the leading rental housing owners.

Rental housing economist Jay Parsons covers a busy week of headlines related to apartments and single-family rentals — including another major apartment portfolio trade plus the latest on the proposed ban on institutional SFR investors. But the focus of this week's podcast is the sub-institutional multifamily. Small multifamily rarely gets the attention given to institutional multifamily, yet comprises a huge chunk of the nation's apartment market. Jay reviews the latest trends on sub-institutional multifamily fundamentals and capital markets, teeing up a conversation with Adaptive Realty's Moses Kagan and ReSeed Partners' Rhett Bennett. Jay, Moses and Rhett talk about opportunities within the sub-institutional market, and what the pair are looking for in their fund investing in sub-institutional operators across the country.

There are no shortages of false narratives about affordable housing. From the buildings to the renters who live in them, they rarely match the public narratives about them. And also: Just because a developer can get tax credits to build affordable housing doesn't make it easier, either — especially in higher-supplied markets where affordable rents are colliding with market-rate rents due to rent declines associated with the highest supply wave since the 1970s. So how do LIHTC affordable housing still make deals work today, even in markets where affordable housings' actual rents are well below allowable rents (set based on incomes)? Rental housing economist Jay Parsons welcomes in Nick Andersen of Dominium, one of the nation's biggest builders of affordable housing to talk myths versus realities — and share tips of the trade on how affordable housing development can still work today. Additionally, on the topic of affordability and mythbusting, Jay shares his two favorite charts from the just-released State of the Nation's Rental Housing report from Harvard's Joint Center for Housing Studies. And for the "In the News" segment in this episode, Jay breaks down the latest on the federal government's attempt to ban large investors from buying or building single-family rental homes.

Rental housing economist Jay Parsons dives into the remarkable story of Equity Residential, starting with two fraternity brothers at the University of Michigan in the 1960s through its IPO in the 1990s, its scaling to 225,000 units in 2001 (which included investments in 36 states, in affordable housing and in ranch-style apartments) to its shift to focus entirely in coastal urban markets to its latest chapter retuning to select Sun Belt markets. Jay in joined in the program by EQR's CEO, Mark Parrell, who worked under the late great Sam Zell beginning in the late 1990s. Mark takes us inside EQR and shares the factors that drove the latest pivot, and why Equity Residential is now building attainable housing on the outskirts of Atlanta — a big shift from high-rises in major coastal cities. Additionally, in this week's "In the News" segment, Jay breaks down the latest headlines and happenings related to the proposed ban on institutional investors in single-family rental homes — and how the latest legislation could effectively crush most build-to-rent construction as well. What could the implications be, and why are housing analysts opposing a bill that was initially intended to boost housing supply?

Rental housing economist Jay Parsons dives into the multifamily industry's biggest family business, Morgan Properties. Started in the mid-1980s when Mitchell Morgan acquired three apartment communities in suburban Philadelphia with a dollar down, Morgan's portfolio has since grown to 110,000+ units — making Morgan the No. 2 largest apartment owner in the country. Mitchell recently promoted his two sons, Jonathan and Jason Morgan, to co-CEOs to lead the company in its next chapter. Jason Morgan joins The Rent Roll to share his family story, talk about the company's buy box and its focus of late on the Midwest, and to discuss how the company could evolve under a new generation of leadership. Additionally, Jay shares the latest data on apartment sales — including new data showing the return of capital in certain types of submarkets, while capital remains sparse for other types. Jay breaks down those two competing realities in an era where neighborhood — not just MSA — matter more than ever.

After avoiding public comment for weeks after the White House announced it proposed ban on institutional investors buying homes, the single-family rental REITs now enter the spotlight for earnings call season. How are they responding? Rental housing economist Jay Parsons shares the answer as part of his seven takeaways from the SFR REITs' recent earnings calls. One key: Increased emphasis on the pre-existing strategy of selling older homes and recycling capital into new build-to-rent construction. Additionally, Jay shares color from the REITs on slowed leasing and softening rents for the SFR sector broadly, and what that could mean for the 2026 outlook. Additionally, Jay discusses headlines from a busy news week for rental housing — including another multifamily REIT taken private, a potential apartment rent rebound in Austin, and more evidence of the positive impact of new "luxury" supply on rent affordability. Later in the program, Jay welcomes in Principal Asset Management's Rich Hill, senior managing director and global head of real estate research and strategy. Rich and Jay discuss public versus private valuations, where the industry is headed, and where investment opportunities could exist for rental housing over the next cycle. Rich shares his take on single-family rentals, apartments and student housing.

As New York City's new mayor pushes a rent freeze on the city's beleaguered rent stabilized apartments, a new voice is emerging from the landlord side — and it happens to be the guy who sat next to Zohran Mamdani in the New York state legislature. Meet Kenny Burgos, a former state legislator who is now the CEO of the New York Apartment Association. Kenny has taken a fresh, pragmatic approach to the rent control debate — highlighting data, logic and real-life examples over short-form videos on social media in a way that could be a template for others across the country trying to respond to disproven policy ideas. In addition to the conversation with Kenny, Jay Parsons also shares a brief version of New York's 100+ years of rent control, and how continued tightening has only exacerbated challenges for renters. Also in this episode, Jay shares the latest headlines impacting single-family rentals and introduces a new segment to the podcast called "Good News."

The big six apartment REITs just wrapped up their Q4 2025 earnings calls. Rental housing economist Jay Parsons shares the seven key themes and takeaways from those calls — and what these trends might mean for the broader multifamily market. Those themes include improvement in multifamily fundamentals headed into the spring leasing season (including some initial reduction in concessions) and yet still muted expectations for rent growth in 2026, the continued strength of New York and San Francisco coupled with lingering challenges in other coastal markets (and related news of Camden exiting California), signs of momentum in the supply-drenched Sun Belt, plus more stock buybacks as REITs continue to trade at big discounts to net asset value. Later in the program, Jay welcomes in REIT analyst Jana Galan from Bank of America Securities. Jana gives her take on the effectiveness of buybacks and how Wall Street investors see apartments today compared to other asset classes, as well as her thoughts on the eventual recovery. Additionally, Jay reviews headlines of the week impacting rental housing, and gives his take on a recent congressional hearing on housing affordability and a potential ban on large investors buying single-family homes.

What was the sentiment at the apartment industry's biggest annual get-together, the National Multifamily Housing Council's Annual Meeting? Rental housing economist shares his take on the pulse of the market as part of hig Top 5 takeaways from the event in Las Vegas. In particular, Jay shares color and insights on the wide availability of debt capital, and what implications that's having downstream for would-be sellers and would-be buyers. Jay then welcomes in Jeff Weidell, the CEO of Northmarq, one of the biggest names in multifamily capital markets. Jeff shares his thoughts on how the apartment sector could unfold in 2026, and what could result from the disconnect between buyers chasing distress and actual distress at lower quality that what most buyers want. Jeff also talks about the policy environment for multifamily finance, and how that's changing, as well as his thoughts on the potential privatization of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. And as always, Jay brings back recurring features like "Rental Housing Trivia" and "In the News" — including another myth-buster news article on the role of institutional investors in the single-family housing market.

We've been hearing about the so-called wall of maturities and looming distress in multifamily for a couple years now. So, where is it? When will it show it up? What could it look like, and what implications could it have (or not have) on the broader multifamily market? Rental housing economist Jay Parsons shares the latest on apartment distress, and how we could be seeing a mismatch between capital chasing distressed deals versus actual distressed opportunities in the market. Jay then welcomes in the head of a major apartment lender, Michael Comparato of Benefit Street Partners, to dive deeper into emerging distress. Mike shares his thoughts on how much longer lenders can stay patient, what could push more distressed deals into the market, how the emergence of debt funds have changed the game, and how distressed deals could impact the broader sector. Additionally, Jay brings back recurring segments like "In the News" — highlighting new articles on the proposed ban on institutional SFR investors as well as the increased opportunities for BTR development.

What's the latest on the U.S. apartment market? Rental housing economist Jay Parsons shares fresh data and commentary on multifamily fundamentals across the country — and notes it's no longer as clean-cut as coastal versus Sun Belt. Jay breaks down the key performance indicators from supply and demand to occupancy and rent, hunting for green shoots and giving perspective on when we could see concessions burn off and rent growth rebound. RealPage Chief Economist Carl Whitaker joins the podcast to share his take on the 2026 outlook, particularly around demand drivers given increased uncertainty in the economy. Reduced supply is a given in 2026, but what about demand? And how long will it take to lease up the surge of supply that completed in 2024 and 2025? Additionally, Jay breaks down the latest headlines impacting apartments and single-family rentals, as well as teeing up another edition of "Rental Housing Trivia."

Institutional investors in single-family rentals are suddenly front-page news thanks to President Trump's proposed ban on institutions buying houses. But what does the data and academic research tell us about institutions' impact on home prices, home sales, homeownership, rents and on neighborhoods? And how do those impacts vary in the parts of the country with heavier concentrations of institutional investors? Rental housing economist Jay Parsons breaks down the 10 most common myths we're hearing about institutional investors in single-family housing, and responds to each one with data from academic papers, renter surveys and leading data sources. And to help further the conversation, Jay welcomes in an academic who just published an award-winning, peer-reviewed paper on the impact of institutional investors in housing — Dr. Joshua Coven, a professor at Baruch College in New York City. Professor Coven shares three major takeaways from his study published last year. Additionally, Jay shares his thoughts on the latest headlines touching on apartments and single-family rentals during the "In the News" segment, including high concessions for apartments in Phoenix and other Sun Belt cities.

What's the latest in the single-family rental and build-to-rent market? The sectors are drawing a lot of attention right now, driven by widening discount to rent versus buy. But that isn't translating into improved leasing velocity or rent growth for SFR operators. Why not? Rental housing economist Jay Parsons explains, and outlines what might play out this year. Additionally, Jay shares his take on President Trump's announcement that he will pursue a ban on institutional investors buying single-family homes. Later in the program, Jay welcomes in one of the nation's early pioneers in BTR development — Josh Hartmann, the CEO of NexMetro. Josh shares the great story of how Phoenix became the epicenter of the BTR boom, and gives his take on the sector's future direction. As always, Jay brings back recurring segments like "In the News" (where Jay breaks down a recent article on the sluggish condo market, among other headlines) and "Rental Housing Trivia."

It's predictions time! Rental housing economist Jay Parsons shares 15 predictions for apartments and single-family rentals in 2026 — including his take that apartment absorption could drop off even if job market rallies, and Jay explains why that's not necessarily a bad signal for the sector. Jay also shares his takes on the impact of immigration policy, the outlook for apartment and SFR rents, and what role distress might play in the capital markets. In addition, the main event of this episode is our guest, the one and only John Burns — the founder and CEO of John Burns Research & Consulting. John shares his take on the 2026 outlook for home sales and for rental housing, and why 2026 could be a "boring year" in his words. Additionally, Jay shares the latest headlines touching on rental housing, including a big article from Bloomberg on how "luxury" apartments and pushing down rents even for lower-income renters. 

Rental housing economist Jay Parsons rolls back the tape on his 10 predictions for the apartment and single-family rental market in 2025. What played out as expected, and where did he miss? It turns out there was a common theme among the two big "misses." In the second half of the program, Jay welcomes in Newmark's managing director and head of multifamily capital markets research, Mike Wolfson. Mike shares his own thoughts on how 2025 played out versus expectations, then Jay and Mike discuss the capital markets environment going into 2026. What's driving the return of debt capital back into apartments, and what impact has that had on transactions? Deal flow increased moderately in 2025, but what would it take to get further acceleration in 2026? And where's all that distress we've been hearing is constantly on the horizon? Also, as always, Jay brings back recurring segments like "Rental Housing Trivia" and "In the News," where he shares a surprisingly insightful story from The Wall Street Journal, as well as another headline about the winddown of an apartment REIT that once ranked as the nation's largest apartment owner. 

Are we seeing green shoots in the supply-drenched multifamily market? Rental housing economist Jay Parsons breaks down why the answer is "yes," while cautioning that a "green shoot" is just that — early signs of improved momentum, but not yet a rebound. He also notes that there's a long way to go, and the path to recovery could be choppy and uneven. Jay also reveals the one Sun Belt market seeing more green shoots than others right now, and what that could mean for other markets going forward. Later in the program, Jay welcomes in the CEO of CAPREIT, Andrew Kadish. Jay and Andrew discuss trends in affordable and market-rate housing across the East Coast, Mid-Atlantic and Midwest. Andrew also shares his take on how we can get more affordable housing available for those who need it. And Andrew also tells the story of how the company started by his father ended up with the same name as a Canadian REIT — setting up a lifetime of name confusion. And as always, Jay brings back recurring segments like "In the News" (where he talks about a big headline related to new fee transparency rules), "Rental Housing Trivia" and "New Digs."

Greystar's incoming head of U.S. property management, Toni Eubanks, joins The Rent Roll with Jay Parsons to share her journey from leasing units on site to leading the nation's largest apartment manager with nearly 1 million units. Toni shares her take on how the property management business has evolved over the last few decades, and where it's headed from here. Toni also reveals some of her priorities and goals at Greystar as she steps into the expanded role on January 1. Additionally, Jay shares his take on the latest headlines impacting rental housing — including a CNBC headline declaring that vacancy has reached a "record high." Is that true? Jay also provides a hot take on why we could see the death of market surveys, which have been pervasive across the industry dating back prior to the digital era.

How is AI impacting the rental housing business? Rental housing economist Jay Parsons cuts through the noise and the hype to look at the current state of AI in the multifamily and BTR industries, as well as the impact of AI on demand drivers like employment. Additionally, Jay welcomes Tyler Christiansen, the CEO of one of the nation's leading prop tech firms using AI, Funnel. Jay and Tyler discuss what's real and what's not, how to measure the impact of AI on NOI, and what the next advancements in AI could look like for property owners and managers. Additionally, in this week's "In the News" segment, Jay shares some big headlines impacting apartment and SFR operators — including an article challenging the perception of Gen Z'ers being more financially stretched compared to prior generations.

Rental housing economist Jay Parsons highlights smaller markets outpunching their weight class in fundamentals and in capital flow. It's easy to dismiss tertiary markets as volatile and less liquid, but that's not true across the board. Some markets are more attractive than others. To help inform the discussion, Jay welcomes in the CEO of Centerspace, Anne Olson, who runs the one public REIT that maintains a heavy presence in tertiary markets — while also expanding into larger MSAs. What are the pros and cons of investing in smaller markets? And why do investors (especially Wall Street) tend to undervalue even the tertiary markets where revenue growth has consistently outperformed? How do you balance the strength of low-supply, vibrant small markets with the appeal of more liquid large markets? Additionally, Jay brings back recurring features like "Rental Housing Trivia" and "In the News."

Rental housing economist Jay Parsons shares his top 5 takeaways from the single-family rental REITs' earnings calls — highlights from AMH and Invitation Homes. Jay shares the SFR REITs' take on the current state of the market, and whether they are seeing any signs of a slowdown in leasing. Another big topic: REIT stock prices versus net asset values, and what that widening gap means for the REITs. Jay also discusses the latest data combatting a major myth: The REITs aren't buying much off the MLS; in fact, they're selling a lot more than they're buying, while they continue to invest in new construction of build-to-rent single-family homes. Additionally, for this week's interview, Jay welcomes in the CEO of the nation's largest SFR owner, Dave Feldman of Progress Residential. Dave and Jay discuss myth-busting of SFR myths, the current state of the SFR market, and potential growth channels for Progress Residential. Also in this week's podcast, Jay shares his take on a topic he's asked about a lot — New York City's mayoral election and what it means for apartments — during the "In the News" segment, while also touching on other headlines.

Rental housing economist Jay Parsons shares his Top 5 highlights from the apartment REITs' Q3 earnings calls. Are the REITs seeing a slow down? Are they seeing concerns around renter financial health? Why are REITs buying back their own stock, and what does that mean for acquisitions and development capital? And how are they thinking about 2026? Additionally, Mizuho managing director and senior REIT Analyst Haendel St. Juste joins the conversation to share his thoughts on apartment REITs, their outlook for 2026 and whether he expects to see more REITs taken private due to significant discounts to net asset value.

Is it time to worry about apartments and single-family rentals? We're hearing more talk about a possible recession — fueled by a softening labor market and a government shutdown. Rental housing economist Jay Parsons breaks down the latest data in the economy and in housing to find clues on the direction of the market. Jay shares his take on the various mixed signals, and offers up tips and strategies for preparing for the road ahead. Later in the program, Jay welcomes in Middleburg Communities founder and CEO Chris Finlay. Jay quizzes Chris on Middleburg's investment and development strategies for 2026 and beyond. Perhaps most impactfully, Chris and Jay talk about the non-profit organization Chris founded, Entryway, that helps people struggling with homelessness receive job training and employment opportunities within the apartment industry — and with impressive results. Furthermore, Jay tees up a particularly overlooked — but important — piece of history for Rental Housing Trivia. And, as usual, Jay breaks down the latest headlines touching on multifamily and SFR.

It's that time of year: Budget season. Rental housing economist Jay Parsons offers up data, tips and ideas for how to think about revenue and expenses in 2026. We know supply will drop off, but will occupancy rates stabilize and concessions burn off? Will rents rebound? Will we continue to see high retention and steady renewal rent growth, or could some operators run into challenges with inverted rent rolls and gain-to-lease scenarios pushing down renewals? And what about operating expenses? Expense growth has (finally) cooled off materially of late, so will that continue into 2027? To further aid the discussion, Jay welcomes in Sue Ansel, the CEO of one of the nation's largest owner-manager-developers, Gables Residential. Sue shares her take on the year ahead for revenue and expenses, while offering up practical tips for thinking about operating budgets in 2026. Additionally, Jay brings back recurring features like "In the News" and "Rental Housing Trivia."

Rental housing economist Jay Parsons shares his take on the latest data on multifamily fundamentals. Is demand holding strong? Why are rents falling? Is supply still trending down? Are renters still renewing leases at record levels? Is there any sign of an impact from slowing job growth? Jay breaks down the Q3 and September data in hopes of providing some clarity amidst the Year of Uncertainty. For additional clarity, Jay welcomes onto the podcast Alyson Bode, the SVP for research and data strategy at Kettler. Jay and Alyson talk about how 2025 has played out versus expectations going into the year, and also discuss the outlook for 2026 and beyond. As usual, Jay also brings back recurring features like "In the News" and "Rental Housing Trivia."

The Rent Roll hits the road for its first episode in front of a live audience! Rental housing economist Jay Parsons interviews the executive leadership of apartment developer JPI — CEO Payton Mayes, CFO/CIO Mollie Fadule and chief of construction and design Kyley Harvey. The group discusses the case for building apartments now, impediments to getting new projects started, expansion into new markets and the impact of tariffs and immigration policy on construction. Additionally, Jay lays out the latest data on apartment construction. When does supply finally taper off, and when could rent growth rebound? How does supply timing differ by market? Jay also tackles a handful of headlines in this week's "In the News" section, including recent articles on "accidental landlords," rental registries, the curious evaporation of investor interest in building in Los Angeles, and the potential impact of TOPA reform in Washington, D.C.

Is there demand for family-friendly, Class A apartments? Bobby Fijan — aka the "Bill James of apartment floorplans" — joins the podcast to make the case. Bobby partnered with Arnold Ventures on a first-of-its-kind, in-depth study on family-friendly apartments. Will people pay for luxury apartments suitable for kids? Why are so few apartments today built with families in mind? What makes a "family-friendly" apartment? Rental housing economist Jay Parsons walks through the findings with Bobby. Jay also tees up a Rental Housing Trivia question centered on the increased prevalence of smaller units targeted for single, child-less adults. Additionally, Jay breaks down a busy week of headlines touching on rental housing policy issues across the country.

Rental housing economist Jay Parsons reviews the current state of affairs in the single-family rental market, sharing the latest data and trends. Is the ice-cold homebuyer market causing a big boom in SFR? Not exactly, but the SFR market is holding up fine — underscoring its lower-volatility nature. Additionally, Jay welcomes in this week's special guest, Scott Eisen. Scott is the chief investment officer and executive vice president at one of the nation's largest SFR owners, Invitation Homes. Jay and Scott talk about myths versus realities in the SFR market, and delve into Invitation Homes' growth strategy. How active is Invitation as a buyer on the MLS versus building and buying new build-to-rent homes? How eager are homebuilders to sell "excess inventory" to SFR owners at a time when many would-be homebuyers are sidelined? And as usual, Jay brings back recurring segments like "In the News" and "Rental Housing Trivia."

Rental housing economist Jay Parsons makes the case for why rate cuts make sense — and how the government's inflation measure may have masked the earlier cooldown in inflation, in addition to recent downward revisions in job growth. Additionally, Jay welcomes in the head of the Terwilliger Center for Housing Policy — named for the long-time CEO of Trammell Crow Residential — to talk pro-housing policy. Will the White House declare a "national housing emergency" as reported, and if so, what does that mean for apartment and SFR investors and developers? How do we solve for the growing shortage in affordable housing, including properties with expiring tax credits? Should the federal government do more to dictate terms for LIHTC in ways that make the program more efficient and productive? What other housing policies can help move the needle on housing affordability and housing availability? Also in the program, Jay reviews a slew of new headlines touching on rental housing issues, including a big report highlighting how SFR helps diversify neighborhoods, a survey on the impact of immigration agents visiting construction sites, and a review of Amazon's efforts to build affordable housing in their key employment markets. 

What's the latest on multifamily capital markets? Rental housing economist Jay Parsons shares the latest data on apartment sales, cap rates and debt trends before welcoming in the chief economist of MSCI Real Assets, Jim Costello. Jim and Jay discuss potential distress in the apartment sector, the lack of development capital, the influx of debt funds, and the current buy box for institutional capital. And when do we see apartment sales transactions finally start to take off again? Additionally, it was a busy news week — with lots of headlines to cover for the "In the News" segment, including a possible ballot measure to bring back rent control in Massachusetts. 

Rental housing economist Jay Parsons welcomes in TruAmerica's Matt Ferrari to talk about his recent trek to the summit of Earth's highest mountain top (Mount Everest) ... and also dive into the current state of the multifamily acquisitions market. Matt summited Mount Everest in May, and shares the remarkable level of prep ahead of the journey ... as well as nail-biting deals of the trip to nearly 30,000 feet above sea level. Later in this week's conversation, Jay and Matt shift gears and talk shop. TruAmerica is one of the relatively few firms that remains an active apartment buyer right now. Where are they finding value right now, and how are they able to remain active when most others cannot? In particular, Jay and Matt discuss how the right value-add deals can still work. Additionally, Jay brings back recurring segments like "In the News," "New Digs," and "Rental Housing Trivia."

Rental housing economist Jay Parsons welcomes in the nation's leading voice on rental housing tax policy, Michael Novogradac of Novogradac & Co., to talk about the One Big Beautiful Bill and its potential impact on housing and on affordable housing construction, specifically. Michael had testified to both the House and Senate about housing issues prior to the bill passing, so now looking back, how would he grade the bill specifically on housing policy? Additionally, Jay shares a groundbreaking new study by former professors at Harvard and UC-Berkeley examining a very timely question: How do tenant protections like "just cause eviction," right-to-counsel and source-of-income laws impact rents? And as usual, Jay brings back recurring podcast segments like "In the News" and "Rental Housing Trivia."

What do most GPs need right now but relatively few can find? LP equity! Special guest Dan Meader — founder and managing partner at Trinity Investors, a leading LP in the rental housing space with roughly 22,000 units — joins the podcast to talk LP equity. What are LP investors looking for in apartment and SFR deals? What are they looking for in a GP, and how can LPs best court them? Additionally in this episode, Jay breaks down the latest Census data on multifamily housing starts. The Census is showing a very strong rebound in starts in June and July. Jay shares some empirical evidence to challenge the Census data, and instead suggests starts remain soft — leveling off at best. Additionally, Jay brings back recurring segments like "In the News" and "Rental Housing Trivia."

It's apartment REIT week on The Rent Roll podcast, as economist Jay Parsons shares his top 5 takeaways from the Q2 2025 earnings calls. In particular: What are REITs doing to add value amidst this era of high supply and flat-to-falling new lease rents? REITs shared some insights into their strategies on renovations, expense control, retention and technology. Additionally, Jay welcomes in REIT guru and analyst Rich Hightower, the managing director for U.S. REIT research at Barclays. Rich and Jay talk about how Wall Street views the multifamily REITs today, why the public markets value apartments less than the private market, and why we've seen more apartment REITs taken private than we've seen go public in recent decades. Jay also shares his take on the latest REIT exit, with Elme Communities selling off a large chunk of assets to Cortland. Also in this episode, Jay brings back recurring segments of Rental Housing Trivia and In the News.

Rental housing economist Jay Parsons shares his top 5 takeaways from the single-family REITs' earnings calls last week — AMH and Invitation Homes. Are the SFR players still focused on building BTR? Are they buying off the MLS again? What impact are they seeing from the reduced number of first-time homebuyers? And is new lease rent growth — which has been soft — showing signs of rebounding? Additionally, Jay welcomes in Amherst Chairman and CEO Sean Dobson for an extended conversation on the state of the SFR industry. As one of the early players in the institutional SFR market, Sean shares his perspective on how and why narratives devolved into myths and conspiracy theories. What can and should operators do to push back against false narratives? Additionally, Jay and Sean talk about the current leasing environment, the role of build-to-rent supply is slowing rent growth, and the long-term need for quality single-family rentals to help address the housing crisis. Furthermore, Jay brings back recurring segments like "In the News" and "Rental Housing Trivia."

Why is apartment rent growth slowing down again? That's the big plot twist in the latest data on the U.S. apartment market. Rental housing economist Jay Parsons dives into that question and much more in this Q3 2025 Apartment Market Update and Outlook. Later in the program, Jay welcomes in CBRE's Americas head of multifamily research, Matt Vance. Jay and Matt chat about what is driving the current slowdown in rent growth, while also highlighting the continued strong demand, improved affordability trends and low turnover. And what markets could recover first, particularly among the high-supplied Sun Belt and Mountain markets? Jay and Matt also talk about the state of the multifamily capital markets, and when we'll see all that much-discussed dry powder drive sales volumes back up. Additionally, Jay reviews the latest headlines in rental housing — including some major news on the single-family rental market — and offers up another edition of "Rental Housing Trivia."

It's the valuation edition, featuring Cushman & Wakefield's head of valuation and advisory for the living sector, Zach Bowyer. Jay and Zach discuss where asset values are today (for apartments and SFR) compared to the peak, and how much interest rates play a role in the decline relative to the rent and NOI slowdown. Jay asks Zach to opine on how he thinks about values, what most of us laypeople get wrong about valuation, and his thoughts on where values go from here. Additionally, in the "Here's a Chart" segment, Jay breaks down why the latest Census data on multifamily starts appears highly suspect, as well as the big story on CPI inflation not getting enough attention right now. Jay also reviews the latest headlines impacting multifamily and SFR, including news about the potential launch of a new apartment REIT.

Rental housing economist Jay Parsons is joined by commercial real estate journalist Hiten Samtani for a hearty discussion on how the media covers apartments and single-family rentals. Jay and Hiten talk about the "lost art of beat reporting," with relatively short tenures on the housing beat, and how that impacts rental housing coverage. Hiten also challenges rental housing owners to call out the bad apples from their bunch, and the two then commiserate on something the media and housing industries share in common: public images tainted by the small share of bad actors. Hiten also shares some advice: How can apartment and SFR owners and managers proactively work to combat misleading headlines, or should they just ignore it? Additionally, Jay brings back recurring segments like Here's a Chart, Rental Housing Trivia and In the News.

American Homes 4 Rent CEO Bryan Smith joins rental housing economist Jay Parsons on the podcast to reflect back on the early years of institutional single-family rentals, and how AMH became one of the leading players in the still-small institutional SFR market. How much have the initial strategies held up since AMH's 2013 IPO? You might be surprised to find it's quite a lot -- from target demographics to asset types to centralized operating strategies. Bryan also shares what drove AMH to move away from buying individual homes, and shift heavily into building new BTR homes. Jay and Bryan also talk about expansion markets, as well as how a healthier homebuyer market could benefit the rental housing business. Additionally, Jay reviews headlines impacting rental housing — including California legislation weakening NIMBYs' abilities to block new housing, as well as implications of the New York City mayoral race on apartments.

Waterton co-founder, CEO and Chairman David Schwartz joins The Rent Roll podcast to talk contrarian apartment investing strategies with rental housing economist Jay Parsons. David shares his story getting into the multifamily industry in the 1980s amidst a period of economic turmoil combined with unfavorable views of apartments. He played key roles at then-emerging names like AMLI and Equity Residential before co-founding Waterton, where he's built a business around investing in out-of-favor markets. David and Jay talk about how a market can be favorable one day and then unfavorable the next, and also discuss the difference between a smart contrarian strategy versus a wild bet. Additionally, Jay breaks down the latest headlines in multifamily and SFR, while also opening up the history books for this week's Rental Housing Trivia.

Is the U.S. apartment market slowing down? Rental housing economist Jay Parsons dives into the data to evaluate whether apartment owners and managers should be concerned. Why is rent growth moderating again and concessions ticking back up if demand remains strong, occupancy is holding steady, supply is declining and renter rent-to-income ratios are improving? And in the second half of this episode, Jay welcomes in David Todd, the CEO of Maymont Homes, the single-family rental platform owned by Brookfield Asset Management. David opens up the hood on Maymont's proprietary model to identify markets for investment. Also, Jay and David talk about why SFR operators would benefit from a stronger for-sale housing market. Additionally, Jay brings back recurring segments like "In the News" and "Rental Housing Trivia."

The man's alter ego is the famed CRE Analyst account with more than 90,000 followers — James Ray, the co-founder of CRE Analyst and a managing director at MetLife. James joins rental housing economist Jay Parsons to make his case for why "cap rates are B.S.," why the wall of maturities is overblown, explains why the "buy versus build" debate isn't as simply as often portrayed, and shares how institutional investors are thinking about multifamily, single-family rentals and build-to-rent homes right now.  Additionally, James shares the remarkable story of what drives his passion for training up the next generation through CRE Analyst and through teaching in higher education — sharing how his childhood bouncing around between trailer parks shaped him for roles on Wall Street managing commercial real estate portfolios and on Zoom calls training up the next generation of CRE leaders. Additionally, Jay breaks down the latest data on apartment rents — and offers up a theory on why rent growth has slowed back down despite continued strong demand, stable occupancy and improving affordability. Jay also brings back recurring segments like "Rental Housing Trivia" and "In the News."

To fee or not to fee? Rental housing economist Jay Parsons tackles the hot-button topic of fees for apartment and SFR renters. With short-term rentals and event ticketing sites now rolling fees into all-in pricing, will apartments and single-family rentals be next? Jay talks with BH Management CEO Joanna Zabriskie, who oversees a portfolio of more than 100,000 units, about BH's pilot of all-in pricing. Joanna reveals what happened with leasing traffic and occupancy when fees were rolled into the base rent. The results may be surprising ... and could encourage other operators to follow suit. At the same time: It's important to recognize all-in pricing doesn't make housing more affordable. Also in this podcast: Jay shares highlights from the apartment REITs' presentations for the big NAREIT summer conference – focusing on interesting updates specific to renter demographics and renter financial health.

Rental housing economist Jay Parsons shares the latest on the real estate fundraising landscape. It's a tough environment right now for multiple reasons. How can GPs make the case for multifamily and SFR? Jay shares some data and talking points that aim to be (semi) helpful, but the reality is it's a challenging market. Alicia Miller, head of U.S. capital markets for Black Salmon, joins the show to share what she's hearing on LP investor sentiment, and also what is resonating with that audience. Additionally, as always, Jay brings back recurring segments like "Rental Housing Trivia" and "In the News," where he gives his take on buzzy headlines around Austin's sluggish tech sector and on the future of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.

It's all about SFR and BTR in this episode, where rental housing economist Jay Parsons shares his Top 5 takeaways from the single-family REITs' recent earnings calls AND talks build-to-rent opportunities with the one of the nation's most prominent BTR players. Jay shares how the SFR market is seeing some overlapping themes with the apartment sector — including solid performances in Q1, low resident turnover and healthy rental financials. Jay also highlights the SFR REITs' continued pivot away from acquiring individual homes off the MLS and into new construction of rental homes. And in the interview portion of the podcast, Jay welcomes in Branden Lombardi, president of BB Living. Jay and Branden discuss the evolving landscape for BTR development opportunities, including a shift from the exurbs into more suburban infill opportunities. Additionally, Jay brings back recurring features like "In the News" and "Rental Housing Trivia."

Rental housing economist Jay Parsons breaks down earnings call season for the apartment REITs, offering up five big takeaways from what turned out to be a moderately upbeat quarter. Jay shares why REITs continue to see strong fundamentals ... and yet aren't raising guidance. Jay also shares key insights from REIT commentaries on hot topics like renter financial health, low turnover, impact of federal layoffs in D.C., and potential impacts from tariffs. In the second half of the program, Jay welcomes in Alfonso Costa Jr., a former senior official at HUD and now the COO at Falcone Group, a Florida-based developer with a national footprint. Alfonso shares his unique perspective on housing as someone who has served in senior roles in both the public sector and private sector — and offers up thoughts on what could help move the needle again on housing creation. Alfonso also talks about what still works, in terms of new development, in the current high-rate environment. Additionally, Jay brings back recurring segments like "In the News" and "Rental Housing Trivia."