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Flexible Rent Payments Help Property Managers And Tenants

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By The Editors
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By offering flexible rent payment programs, property managers help residents stay on track while ensuring steady cash flow and operations.

By offering flexible rent payment programs, property managers can help residents stay on track while ensuring steady cash flow and smoother operations.

By Aaron Gries
Vice President of Product Management at Zego

Rent is the biggest expense for most residents, and many struggle to pay it on time. With costs rising and paychecks stretching thinner, staying on top of rent isn’t getting any easier. At the same time, property managers face growing challenges in collecting rent reliably. By offering payment flexibility, property managers can help residents stay on track while ensuring steady cash flow and smoother operations.

Demand for flexible rent-payment options has increased, especially after the pandemic. Today, a quarter of renters now spend more than 50% of their income on rent. At the same time, rent prices rise by 6% to 8% each year, while wages grow by only 1% to 2% annually, or even decline in some cases. Many residents also rely on non-traditional income sources, such as gig work or irregular job schedules. With these shifts, property managers need solutions that fit real-life financial situations, not just one-size-fits-all due dates.

Flexible rent-payment programs help residents by letting them pay in smaller amounts instead of all at once.  A survey by Intuit Credit Karma found that 24% of American renters struggle with rent affordability, highlighting the need for solutions that ease financial strain. Flexible payment programs allow residents to apply through an online portal, where financial underwriting helps set up personalized payment schedules. Once approved, residents can make payments according to their plan, reducing late fees and easing financial stress.

For property managers, flexible payment systems help maintain consistent rent collection, improve cash flow, and reduce financial uncertainty. Partnering with financial service providers lowers risk while ensuring residents have options that fit their income schedules. These systems also take time-consuming tasks, like chasing down late payments, off property managers’ plates. By automating payment reminders, late fees, and collections, property managers can focus on higher-value work that improves resident satisfaction.

The rise of flexible rent payments reflects the larger shift in the multifamily industry. Property managers are adopting tools to enhance operations and strengthen resident relationships. Since resident satisfaction is key to retention, offering payment flexibility has become an important amenity. When property managers provide options that make life easier, residents notice – and they stay.

As economic pressures continue to reshape the multifamily market, flexible rent-payment options will be key for the future of housing. Yet, despite the growing availability of flexible payment systems, 65% of renters don’t even know they exist, according to payments company Zego’s 2024 State of Resident Experience Management Report. Implementing flexible payment options is only part of the equation – property managers must also spread the word. Clear communication ensures residents understand their options and take advantage of the flexibility available to them.

About the author:

Aaron leads the Product Development team where he drives development of Zego’s product strategy, roadmap execution, and prioritization. Aaron’s 20 years of FinTech experience combined with over 7 years in PropTech is a potent mix to address the ever-changing needs of Zego’s clients and customers as a B2B2C SaaS company.

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Photo credit Pheelings Media via istockimages.

Ask Landlord Hank: If Heater Goes Out in My Rental, Should I Give Tenants Credit While Awaiting Repair?

By
Hank Rossi
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If the heater goes out in my rental should I give tenants credit while awaiting the repair is the question this week for Landlord Hank

If the heater goes out in my rental should I give tenants credit while awaiting the repair is the question this week for  Ask Landlord Hank. Remember Hank is not an attorney and he is not offering legal advice. If you have a question for him please fill out the form below.

 

Dear Landlord Hank:

If the heater goes out in one of my rental units, and I begin getting quotes to repair but it takes a week or two (7-14 days) to receive quotes, approve one and have a heater installed, how many days credit should I give my residents for the habitability issue in their unit? -Marley

Dear Marley,

If the property was really uninhabitable due to cold then I would reimburse the tenants for the days it took for the repair to be completed, especially if you are getting multiple quotes, which is understandable for a major repair.

If you provided or if the tenants had space heaters and could remain comfortable that way then I wouldn’t do anything, unless they complain or ask, and then I would consider their request.

Sincerely,

Hank Rossi

Editor’s note: Check your local and state regulations on issues such as this as it varies across the country.

As a child, Hank Rossi sometimes helped his father take care of the family rental-maintenance business.  In the mid-’90s he got into the rental business for himself. After he retired, he started a real-estate brokerage business with his sister that focuses on property management and leasing. Visit his website: https://rentsrq.com.

 

Ask Landlord Hank Your Question

Ask veteran landlord and property manager Hank Rossi your questions from tenant screening to leases to pets and more! He provides answers each week to landlords.

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If the heater goes out in my rental should I give tenants credit while awaiting the repair is the question this week for Landlord Hank.
Landlord Hank Rossi says, “If the property was really uninhabitable due to cold then I would reimburse the tenants.”

How Can I Monitor Tenant Smoking In My No-Smoking Rental?

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Photo credit OlenaMykhaylova via istockimages

Mitigation For Common Property Losses

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By The Editors
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mitigation for common property losses requires a proactive approach to minimizing risks that could result in costly losses for landlords

By Jason Jones
SVP, Risk Management

Preventing Property Losses

Protecting investment properties involves more than just securing a solid insurance policy–it requires a proactive approach to minimizing risks that could result in costly losses. By addressing potential issues early, landlords and property managers can prevent disruptions and maintain a safe environment for tenants.

Fire Prevention

Fires are not only one of the most common losses, often a result of cooking mishaps, electrical issues, or arson, particularly in vacant properties. To mitigate fire risks, install working and unexpired smoke detectors and fire extinguishers in all properties, educate tenants about fire safety, and consider utilizing additional suppression tools. Vacant properties must be secured at all times to prevent unauthorized access.

Water Damage

Water-related losses, such as frozen pipes, can lead to extensive and costly property damage. Keep indoor temperatures above 55°F (higher in more northern locations), insulate exposed pipes, and encourage tenants to let faucets drip during freezing conditions. Leak sensors and automatic shutoff valves are relatively easy to install and provide early detection and intervention, minimizing damage.

Theft

Properties that are vacant or under renovation often attract thieves targeting appliances, tools, and materials. However, this does not mean that occupied properties are immune to burglary. To reduce the risk of theft, all properties, whether vacant or occupied, must be equipped with high-quality locks on all doors and windows.

Additional measures, such as motion-activated cameras and exterior lighting and alarm systems, can deter potential intruders. Keeping the grounds tidy can also discourage unwanted visitors by signaling that the property is actively maintained.

Reducing Liability Risks

Liability claims can result in substantial financial losses, but proactive measures can significantly reduce exposure.

Regular property inspections are essential for identifying hazards such as loose handrails or damaged steps that could lead to accidents. Addressing these issues promptly and maintaining detailed records of repairs, including photos, can help prevent incidents and provide critical evidence if a claim arises. Scheduled maintenance plans can ensure consistent inspections and timely repairs, protecting both tenants and the investment property.

While no property is entirely immune to risks, thoughtful planning and preventative measures can significantly reduce the likelihood and severity of losses. A well-maintained property also reflects responsible management, fostering long-term value and tenant satisfaction.

About NREIG:

mitigation for common property losses requires a proactive approach to minimizing risks that could result in costly losses for landlords

NREIG is a national, independent insurance agency, offering the most comprehensive, and flexible industry-leading insurance program for residential real estate investment properties. Our team of advisors and specialists delivers unmatched service and streamlined insurance solutions for investors with single-family and small multifamily rentals, renovation projects, and vacant homes. Seamlessly make coverage changes as your portfolio fluctuates and pay only for the coverage you need each month.

Request a Proposal

About the author:

mitigation for common property losses requires a proactive approach to minimizing risks that could result in costly losses for landlords

Jason’s insurance career spans more than 20 years, with the bulk of his industry experience gained through his role as an adjuster handling property and liability claims. Throughout Jason’s time with NREIG, his various leadership positions have exposed him to almost every department, including service, claims, account review, underwriting, and risk management. As SVP of Risk Management, Jason guides NREIG teams in maintaining carrier relationships, foreseeing and managing potential risks, and aiding in becoming a market leader.

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Rents Forecast to Rise in 2025 and 2026

Will Multifamily Have a Strong Year in 2025?

Stay Ahead of the Game: Avoiding Multifamily Hurdles Before They Occur

Multifamily Starts 2025 ‘Walking a Tightrope’

By
John Triplett
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After a so-so year in 2024, multifamily has entered 2025 “walking a tightrope, with heavy supply growth balanced by equally strong demand,

After a so-so year in 2024, multifamily starts 2025 “walking a tightrope, with heavy supply growth balanced by equally strong demand,” Yardi Matrix writes in the December report.

Overall, the market has been on a “treadmill” during 2024 with national year-over-year growth stuck between 0% and 1.0% for 16 straight months, the report says.

“Clearly, 2025 promises change. Starts have dropped, and completions will wane soon. On the demand side, absorption will be boosted by healthy job growth and demographics.”

Still, the report notes that immigration represents a source of demand for multifamily, and that remains uncertain with the new administration.

“The U.S. Census Bureau recently increased its estimate of international immigration to 2.8 million in 2024, 84% of total U.S. population growth, while upping immigration estimates to 4 million combined in 2022 and 2023,” the report says.

On top of that, interest rates now appear to hold “less favorable” conditions than what had been expected.

“The upshot is that investors’ higher inflation expectations have pushed the 10-year Treasury rate up to 4.6%, creating ongoing pricing uncertainty that could keep deal flow muted,” Yardi Matrix says.

Highlights of the report

  • Multifamily finished 2024 on the downswing, with the average U.S. advertised rent falling $4 nationally in December to $1,742. Year-over-year rent growth, which remains positive albeit weak, was down 10 basis points to 0.6%.
  • The trends that shaped 2024 remained in place to the end. Demand stayed robust throughout the year in most regions, so regional and market-level rent change was determined by the amount of local supply growth.
  • S. advertised rents fell 0.2% month-over-month in December, with declines in 20 of the top 30 metros.
  • High-supply markets continue to record some of the largest declines. In December in Austin, advertised rents fell 1.1% month-over-month.
  • After outperforming multifamily through most of the year, single-family rental rates also ended the year poorly. Single-family rental advertised rents dropped $7 month-over-month in December to $2,141, with year-over-year growth dropping 40 basis points to -0.8%.

Read the full report here.

About Yardi Matrix

Yardi Matrix researches and reports on multifamily, office and self-storage properties across the United States, serving the needs of a variety of industry professionals. Yardi Matrix Multifamily provides accurate data on 18+ million units, covering more than 90 percent of the U.S. population. Contact the company at (480) 663-1149.

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Will Multifamily Have a Strong Year in 2025?

Stay Ahead of the Game: Avoiding Multifamily Hurdles Before They Occur

2025 Pets and Housing Awards Are Open for Nominations!

By
By The Editors
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Nominations are open for the fourth-annual 2025 pets and housing awards presented by the pet-inclusive housing initiative.

Raise the woof: the nominations are open for the fourth-annual 2025 pets and housing awards presented by the pet-inclusive housing initiative from the Michelson Found Animals Foundation.

By Judy Bellack
Industry Principal, Pet-Inclusive Housing Initiative

The connections between people and their pets has never been stronger, and the multifamily housing industry is leading the charge in celebrating this bond. With more renters seeking pet-inclusive communities, forward-thinking operators are redefining what it means to be a “pet-friendly” property—and now it’s time to recognize their groundbreaking work.

Michelson Found Animals Foundation is thrilled to announce that nominations are now open for the Fourth Annual Pets and Housing Awards, presented by the Pet-Inclusive Housing Initiative. These awards honor the trailblazers, innovators, and community champions who are making housing more welcoming for pets and their people. Ross Barker, Director of the Pet-Inclusive Housing Initiative, describes the event as a highly anticipated opportunity to highlight outstanding efforts in pet-inclusive housing. “We eagerly anticipate this event every year because it lets us shine a spotlight on the outstanding organizations leading the pack with their pet-inclusive housing solutions,” Barker said. “This fourth annual event will be our best yet, and we’re excited to see the great work organizations nominate!”

Why Nominate?

This is your chance to showcase your achievements and gain industry-wide recognition as a leader in pet inclusivity.

Whether you’ve launched an innovative amenity, hosted successful adoption events, or reimagined pet policies by easing or eliminating size and breed restrictions, we want to celebrate your dedication to improving the lives of pets and residents alike. Whether you’re part of a large company spanning multiple states, an independent rental operator serving a local community, an advocate for pet policy change or a nonprofit champion for pets in housing, we want to hear from you! Or you may know some great work in one of these categories you would like to nominate on behalf of someone else – go for it!

According to Diane Yensen, representing Rainier Properties and one of last year’s award winners, “To be recognized with the Best Leap Forward in the Pet-Inclusive Housing Awards was very exciting. It helps validate the fact that we really do live this and are passionate about it, and I hope other companies in the industry see this and get excited about it, too.”

Award Categories

With nine exciting categories, there’s a spotlight for every kind of innovation:

  • Best Leap Forward: Recognizing significant progress in pet inclusivity.
  • Most Impactful Adoption or Foster Event or Program: Applauding efforts that connect pets with loving homes.
  • Most Innovative Pet Amenity or Amenity Group: Shining a light on creative spaces and services for pets.
  • Most Innovative Pet Marketing Campaign: Showcasing campaigns that engage and attract pet-loving residents.
  • Most Pet-Inclusive Property: Celebrating a property that goes above and beyond for pets and their people, setting the pet-inclusive standard.
  • Outstanding Pet Citizen: Highlighting a resident pet that has made a meaningful impact.
  • Paws & Progress Nonprofit Award: Celebrating nonprofits driving positive change in pet-inclusive housing.
  • Pets & Housing Policy Advancement Award: Recognizing advocacy and policy advancements that benefit pets and housing.
  • Vanguard Award: Honoring a company advancing leading-edge initiatives that set new standards and serve as an example to the rental housing industry.

Key Details

  • Nomination Deadline: March 30, 2025
  • Winners Announced: Virtually (details to follow)

How to Nominate

Submitting a nomination is simple and unlimited! Highlight the achievements in any—or all—categories. Share your (or another’s) story, inspire your peers, and claim your place as an industry leader. Simply click here to get started.

Let’s Celebrate Together

The Pets and Housing Awards are more than just accolades—they’re a celebration of the innovative and heartwarming ways the multifamily housing industry improves lives. Let’s honor the creativity, compassion, and commitment that make pet-inclusive housing a reality.

Don’t wait! Start your nominations today, and join us in setting the standard for pet-inclusive communities. Together, we’ll keep raising the woof!
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Tenants Sue Portland Apartments Over Heating Issues

By
John Triplett
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A group of tenants has filed a $1.8 million lawsuit against a Portland apartment complex over heating issues,

A group of tenants has filed a $1.8 million lawsuit against a Portland apartment complex over heating issues, according to reports.

The complaint alleges the landlords breached their duty to remedy maintenance issues and are seeking $1.8 million for economic and non-economic damages, koin.com reported.

The complaint — which was first reported by The Oregonian — was filed on January 22 by 15 tenants who live in the Glencourt Apartments, against the apartment complex, property managers with The NWV Group, and Turk Investments, LLC. The lawsuit was filed in Multnomah County Circuit Court.

Tenants say they pay between $935 and $2,265 per month for their units in the Portland apartment complex and claim the complex’s owners and managers are violating the Oregon Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, which requires all landlords to provide adequate heating systems maintained in good working order.

A representative with NWV Group told KOIN 6, “Both NWV Group and Glencourt ownership take tenant complaints very seriously and work together to address reported concerns.  Glencourt ownership and NWV Group value our residents and their habitability.  At this time, we have no open heat or habitability issues that have been submitted by tenants at Glencourt.”

According to the lawsuit, the “lack of heat” in the apartments on East Burnside Street has been well-known by the landlords and “ignored since well before 2021.”

“Defendants have outrageously delayed conducting long overdue repairs, instead forcing their tenants to endure winter after winter of unprecedentedly low temperatures, storm after storm,” the lawsuit states.

The lawsuit alleges that the landlords have received “incessant reports” over the course of many years, and since at least 2021, “there has been no significant period of time that the heating system has been properly maintained and provided adequate heat.”

One renter claims six of her eight windows have been in disrepair and do not fully close, allowing frost to enter her home, and similar to other tenants, she has isolated one room to try to stay warm, the lawsuit alleges. Another tenant claimed her windows also failed to protect the apartment from the weather, causing snow to pile up on her window inside the apartment.

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Justice Department Sues 6 Large Landlords

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Ask Landlord Hank: I Think My Tenants Have Been Smoking Inside; How Do I Prove it?

By
Hank Rossi
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Ask Landlord Hank: I Think My Tenants Have Been Smoking Inside; How Do I Prove it?

Tenants smoking inside rental property can be a real headache for property managers so in this week’s Ask Landlord Hank question he offers some suggestions on how to know find out if tenants have been smoking in the rental unit.

Dear Landlord Hank,

My lease specifies no smoking in the unit and even goes so far as to state that tenants may be responsible for all costs to repaint/clean if they do smoke in the unit, but I am struggling with how to enforce this clause because it’s difficult to prove.

When my latest tenants moved out I found the entire inside of the unit had a grey haze on everything (walls, ceiling, doors, and cabinets). They insist they didn’t smoke inside the unit and suggested that it may have been caused by candles.

I’ve had tenants who used candles regularly before and have never seen this kind of thick haze. I’m certain they were smoking inside the unit, but don’t have any evidence other than photos of how bad the haze was and my receipts for painting the walls/ceiling.

Is this sufficient if they challenge my deductions from their security deposit or is there a better way to prove this in the future?

-Gordon

Dear Landlord Gordon,

Usually, tenant smoking is easy to detect by the distinctive smell on walls, in carpeting and furniture, signs of ash or cigarette butts, and yellow or brown discoloration on walls, counters, cabinets, doors and trim.

Even with camouflage, you can usually find enough signs to prove indoor smoking.

If you want to know for sure if the haze you are finding is related to smoking, there are air-quality detection companies and devices that can confirm the presence of smoke residue from cigarettes.

You may also try a home air-quality test, but the accuracy is not as high as with a professional assessment. The Bosch Macurco D381 Air Quality Detector can detect cigarette smoke.

There are also smoke detectors available to alert you to someone smoking in your property, and a new “smoke sensor” should be coming to market this year.

Detection may be tougher to do now though since you’ve tried to erase all signs of this issue, including painting your property. Have you checked your vents and ducting for signs of smoking?

We deal with companies that have “ozone” machines that will be attached to your ducting and clean ducting and air handler as well as your unit to get rid of the smoke smell, and this is a great and cost-effective way to take care of the issue.

Sincerely

Hank Rossi

Ask Landlord Hank Your Question

Ask veteran landlord and property manager Hank Rossi your questions from tenant screening to leases to pets and more! He provides answers each week to landlords.

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Tenant smoking inside rental unit and how to prove it ask Landlord Hank
Landlord Hank Rossi

How Can I Monitor Tenant Smoking In My No-Smoking Rental?

Do Your “No Smoking” And Odor Policies Stink?

Can I Say “No Pot In My Apartments” When It’s Legal In My State?

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Ask Landlord Hank: I Think My Tenants Have Been Smoking Inside; How Do I Prove it?
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Multifamily Groups Praise FCC Decision To Allow Bulk Internet Billing

By
John Triplett
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The FCC ended a bulk internet service plan that would have curbed landlords’ ability to force residents to pay for a single internet provider

In a move praised by the multifamily industry, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is eliminating a Biden administration proposal on bulk internet service that would have curbed apartment landlords’ ability to force residents into paying for a single internet service provider, according to reports.

The change in bulk billing arrangements would allow landlords to make deals with ISPs that would make residents pay for internet, cable, and/or satellite television services from a specific provider even if they don’t want them.

The change was praised by multifamily groups saying it will lower costs.

“By making this move, the new FCC is acknowledging the critical role these agreements play in encouraging broadband investment, bridging the digital divide and lowering internet costs,” Bob Pinnegar, National Apartment Association President and CEO, said in a release.

“NAA looks forward to working alongside the FCC to develop policies that further expand broadband access and deliver results for the nation’s renters and housing providers.”

Deals renters can’t escape

Ars Technica reported that with bulk billing, deals in which a company agrees to provide service to every tenant of a building, residents are billed a prorated share of the total cost. Tenants may be billed by either the landlord or the provider. Bulk billing contracts are only banned by the FCC when they give a provider the exclusive right to access and serve a building. But when tenants are forced to pay for one provider’s service, other providers aren’t likely to see much opportunity in entering the building.

The proposal, announced by FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel in March of 2024, sought to lower costs and address the lack of choice for broadband services. “Everyone deserves to have a choice of broadband provider,” she said. “That is why it is not right when your building or apartment complex chooses that service for you, saddling you with unwanted costs, and preventing you from signing up for the plan and provider you really want. This proposal shuts down these practices. It boosts competition and consumer choice and builds on our ongoing efforts to improve broadband transparency.”

FCC Chairman Brendan Carr ended the commission’s consideration of a 2024, Biden-Harris Administration proposal that sought to regulate so-called “bulk billing” arrangements

“During the Biden-Harris Administration, FCC leadership put forward a ‘bulk billing’ proposal that could have raised the price of Internet service for Americans living in apartments by as much as 50 percent,” Carr said in a release.

“This regulatory overreach from Washington would have hit families right in their pocketbooks at a time when they were already hurting from the last Administration’s inflationary policies.  That is why you saw a broad and bipartisan coalition of groups opposing the plan.  After all, seniors, students, and low-income individuals would have been hit particularly hard.

“There is a lot of work ahead to reverse the last Administration’s costly regulatory overreach.  I am glad to take a step in the right direction by ending the FCC’s consideration of a Biden-era plan that would have artificially raised the cost of Internet service,” Carr said in the release.

Change praised by multifamily groups

The National Multifamily Housing Council (NMHC), the National Apartment Association (NAA) and the Real Estate Technology and Transformation Center (RETTC) applauded Carr’s withdrawing a recent proposal to restrict high-speed internet bulk-billing agreements. His decision to withdraw the proposal will ensure that millions of consumers – renters, homeowners and condominium owners – will continue to reap the benefits of bulk billing,” the groups said in a release.

“We’re glad to see that Chairman Carr has taken banning bulk billing off the table. That’s a huge win for renters,” Sharon Wilson Géno, President of NMHC, said in the release.

“Bulk-billing arrangements have made high-speed internet more accessible and affordable for millions of Americans, especially for low-income renters and seniors living in affordable housing. We’re glad that the Chairman and the FCC are sticking up for housing providers and renters, rather than threatening the existing regulatory framework that has been so successful in deploying affordable and reliable broadband to communities across the nation,” she said.

Bulk-billing agreements allow property owners to negotiate directly with internet-service providers, typically securing high-speed internet for renters at rates up to 50 percent lower than standard retail pricing. In addition to the savings, bulk billing removes barriers to broadband adoption like credit checks, security deposits, equipment rentals, or installation fees, according to the release.

Beyond affordability, bulk billing can be key to powering next-generation services in rental housing. From smart-home technologies that make daily life more convenient to sustainability solutions that cut energy use, bulk billing helps renters meet the demands of modern life while also saving them money, the release said.

“The FCC has once again affirmed that bulk billing and managed WiFi solutions are of strong benefit to consumers and should be leveraged to overcome barriers to deployment, affordability and adoption, not regulated or restricted,” said Kevin Donnelly, Executive Director & Chief Advocacy Officer of the Real Estate Technology and Transformation Center (RETTC).

He said the change will “ensure housing providers and renters continue to have access to affordable, reliable broadband to support property operations and enable resident-desired services and seamless connectivity.”

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National Median Monthly Rent Ended Year Lower Than It Started

Will Multifamily Have a Strong Year in 2025?

Rents Forecast to Rise in 2025 and 2026

Photo credit gorodenkoff via istockimages.

Rents Decline Again In January- Have They Hit Bottom?

By
John Triplett
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Nationwide rents declined again in January a month that typically marks the “bottom” of the rental market each year before rents rise

Nationwide rents declined again in January for the sixth month in a row, according to the February report from Apartment List.

Rents fell 0.2% in January a month that typically marks the “bottom” of the rental market each year, before rents start to rise in the spring. Rents declined less in January than they did in December, indicating a slight pickup in moving activity even as the market remains in its off-season.

But as it stands now, the national median rent is $1,370, its lowest point in nearly three years. And in January, the typical apartment was “on market” for 37 days before renting, an all-time high.

“Year-over-year growth also remains negative at -0.5 percent, but is slowly inching back toward positive territory,” write the Apartment List Research Team in the report. “63 of the nation’s 100 largest cities saw rents fall in January, but on a year-over-year basis, rent growth was positive for 52 of these cities, as more individual markets gradually return to positive rent growth.”

Nationwide rents declined again in January a month that typically marks the “bottom” of the rental market each year before rents rise

Vacancy index hits 6.9%, a new peak

“Our national vacancy index ticked up to 6.9 percent in January, the highest reading in the history of that monthly data series, which goes back to the start of 2017,” the research team writes.

The rising vacancy rate in recent years is largely attributable to an influx of new multifamily inventory hitting the market. 2023 marked a 30-year high for new multifamily units completing construction, and 2024 saw new completions increase even further. However there are more new units coming in 2025 as there are still 800,000 new multifamily units under construction.

Nationwide rents declined again in January a month that typically marks the “bottom” of the rental market each year before rents rise

List-to-Lease time hits a new high

“The median time on market of 37 days in January is the highest reading that we’ve seen for this metric in any month going back to the start of 2019, when the data series begins,” the research team says.

The influx of new supply is resulting not only in a growing number of vacant units, but also in an increase in the length of time those units remain unoccupied.

Nationwide rents declined again in January a month that typically marks the “bottom” of the rental market each year before rents rise

Conclusion

“Demand for rentals going forward remains a bit more uncertain, and will likely hinge on broader macroeconomic conditions. Currently, it appears that 2025 is set to be another soft year for the rental market, though not as soft as 2024,” the report says.

Read the full report here.

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National Median Monthly Rent Ended Year Lower Than It Started

Will Multifamily Have a Strong Year in 2025?

Rents Forecast to Rise in 2025 and 2026

Addressing Pet Nuisance Complaints in Rental Housing

By
By The Editors
-
Addressing pet nuisance complaints as pet ownership in rental housing continues to grow to foster a community for owners

As pet ownership in rental housing continues to grow addressing pet nuisance complaints is essential to foster a community where both pet owners and non-pet owners feel at home. Proactively and fairly addressing common pet nuisances—such as barking, unattended waste, off-leash dogs, or overly enthusiastic jumpers—can build a more harmonious living environment and even boost resident retention and net operating income.

So here are some tactics for living in harmony so operators can manage these challenges collaboratively and successfully, from the Pet Inclusive Housing Initiative.

 By Judy Bellack
Michelson Found Animals

1. Start with clear and inclusive policies.

A strong foundation of well-defined pet policies helps mitigate issues early. Make sure your guidelines are practical and address common concerns:

  • Pet-waste management: Detail proper cleanup and disposal processes and provide resources to make compliance easier.
  • Noise disturbances: Specify quiet hours and expectations for minimizing disruptive behaviors.
  • Unruly behavior and off-leash pets: Clarify leash requirements, expectations for public spaces, and handling fearful, reactive or overly excitable pets.
Addressing pet nuisance complaints as pet ownership in rental housing continues to grow to foster a community for owners
For pet-waste management detail proper cleanup and disposal processes and provide resources to make compliance easier.

These policies should be prominently shared during leasing and in your pet agreement, and reinforced through signage, digital platforms, or community announcements.

Impact: Clear expectations reduce misunderstandings and encourage compliance, which minimizes the number of complaints and creates a better overall experience for all residents.

2. Communicate with empathy and solutions

When addressing pet-related concerns, a respectful and solution-oriented tone fosters better outcomes:

  • Seek to understand: “We’ve received reports of your dog barking. Is there a new stressor in their routine that might be causing this?”
  • Assume good intent: Most pet owners don’t want to cause disruptions and will appreciate help in resolving the issue.
  • Frame it as a partnership: Position solutions as mutually beneficial, emphasizing the goal of a peaceful community.

Impact: Empathetic and solution-focused communication transforms pet-related concerns into opportunities for collaboration, strengthening community harmony and trust.

3. Equip residents with tools and resources

Instead of just issuing warnings, empower pet owners to solve problems with accessible tools:

  • Noise complaints: Share local trainers’ contact information or recommend interactive toys (Kongs, snuffle mats, and automatic treat dispensers can help keep dogs enriched and entertained) and noise-reducing tools (white-noise machines can often help mask external noises that trigger barking). Consider partnering with local pet-care services to offer discounts.
  • Pet waste: Make sure there are an adequate number of waste stations and regularly stock them with bags. Friendly reminders and campaigns like “Community Pet Parent of the Month” awards can encourage positive habits.
  • Leash laws: Know your local community’s leash laws and have the details handy for residents who may not be familiar. Provide maps of nearby off-leash parks to encourage proper exercise.
  • Unruly behavior: Dogs will occasionally become excited and jump up on or pull to approach a new person; suggest simple potential remedies like maintaining a minimum distance, utilizing a gentle leader, or changing to a harness with a front- or side-attaching leash.

Impact: Communities offering support to resolve pet challenges see better compliance and happier residents, leading to better community reviews and fewer negatives affecting retention.

4. Leverage technology to improve fairness

Adopting technology tools ensures consistent and objective handling of nuisance complaints:

  • Pet DNA tracking: This system identifies waste violators while maintaining fairness and anonymity for compliant residents.
  • Pet-management platforms: Use apps to communicate reminders, track training certifications, and document incidents for transparency.

Data point: Communities that integrate pet-management tools report up to a 15% decrease in pet-related complaints, streamlining operations and fostering a sense of fairness among residents.

5. Build a supportive pet community

Fostering connections among pet owners encourages accountability and reduces incidents. Offer community-building activities:

  • Training workshops: Partner with local trainers for onsite or virtual classes to help address barking, jumping, and other behaviors.
  • Pet-friendly events: Host puppy playdates, costume contests, or “meet the pets” socials to strengthen bonds among residents.
  • Exclusive pet-owner forums: Create a space for sharing tips, asking for advice, and fostering community accountability.

Impact: Building a culture of community and support reduces isolation-related behaviors like barking and helps pet owners feel valued.

6. Address persistent issues fairly and transparently

For recurring problems, follow a structured and documented approach:

  • Document incidents: Track complaints, responses, and resolutions for accountability.
  • Propose solutions: Offer options such as professional training, temporary dog-walking services or mediation between affected residents.
  • Set consequences as a last resort: Clearly outline steps for ongoing noncompliance in lease agreements, but emphasize resolution over eviction.

Impact: A balanced approach improves relationships with residents, reducing turnover and building trust in management.

7. Celebrate success stories

Highlight resolved issues to inspire cooperation and a sense of achievement. For example:

  • Share a resident’s journey of reducing barking through training.
  • Recognize responsible pet owners publicly in newsletters or on social media.

Impact: Celebrating success stories helps create a culture of cooperation and pride, inspiring residents to contribute positively to a pet-inclusive community.

Conclusion: Building a Balanced and Pet-Inclusive Community

Managing pet nuisance complaints is a vital part of operating a thriving rental community. By adopting empathetic communication, providing resources, leveraging technology, and encouraging collaboration, operators can resolve concerns effectively while boosting resident satisfaction.

These efforts don’t just benefit the immediate community—they also contribute to long-term retention and NOI growth, making pet-inclusive policies a true win-win.

For more resources on achieving your ideal pet-inclusive community, visit the Pet-Inclusive Housing Initiative.

About the author:

Addressing pet nuisance complaints as pet ownership in rental housing continues to grow to foster a community for owners

Judy Bellack is the multifamily housing industry principal for Michelson Found Animals, a nonprofit focused on improving the lives of pets and their owners. A 30-year veteran of multifamily, she is utilizing her expertise to spearhead Michelson’s Pet-Inclusive Housing Initiative to provide data and resources to create more pet-inclusive communities in ways that make good business sense for owners and operators.

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