Lender-Designated Sales Starting to Appear

Tides on West Cheyenne

Tides Equities was the belle of the multifamily ball from 2017 to 2023, tearing up the western U.S. with a rinse-and-repeat strategy: buy big, leverage hard, and flip fast. Their 2-3 year lifecycle deals, powered by high-LTV, often floating-rate debt, were a cash machine in a world of low rates and shrinking cap rates. Brokers […]

California’s Insurance Crisis Could See More Leaving the State

State Farm Requesting Emergency Insurance Rate Increases in CA

The California housing market is facing mounting pressures as insurance costs surge in response to increasing natural disaster risks. A recent report from CRE Daily highlights this growing challenge, with State Farm seeking a dramatic 38% rate increase for rental properties and a 15% hike for condo owners and renters, driven by mounting wildfire-related claims. […]

California’s Water Future: Analyzing Desalination as a Long-term Solution

Former Encina Power Station and Claude "Bud" Lewis Desalination Plant

As California grapples with variability in seasonal rain and increasing water demand, the state is exploring various solutions to ensure long-term water security. One technology that continues to gain attention is desalination, with Israel’s success story offering valuable insights for the Golden State. Learning from Israel’s Desalination Success Israel has transformed its water security through […]

Economic Outlook 2025: Mohamed El-Erian on U.S. Exceptionalism, AI, and Global Markets

Willy Walker and Mohamed El-Erian

In a wide-ranging conversation with Walker & Dunlop CEO Willy Walker, renowned economist Mohamed El-Erian shared his perspectives on the current state of the global economy and his outlook for 2025. The discussion covered everything from inflation and interest rates to artificial intelligence and geopolitical risks. U.S. Economic Exceptionalism At the start, Willy reminded El-Erian […]

Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac: The Great Housing Finance Debate

Government Sponsored Enterprises

In the realm of American housing finance, few stories are as complex and contentious as the government conservatorship of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. This ongoing saga, now entering its second decade, continues to spark debate about the future of housing finance in America. The Housing Giants: Understanding Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac’s Business Model […]

Underwriting an Apartment Building: A Guide for Investors

Umderwriting Analysis

Investing in apartment buildings can offer attractive returns, but it requires thorough due diligence. A crucial step is underwriting, which involves analyzing the property’s financial performance to determine its potential profitability. Here’s a simplified guide to help you get started: 1. Gather Essential Data: Rent Roll: This document lists all rental units, current tenants, their […]

How Silicon Valley’s Stock Rally Saved Newsom’s 2024 Budget Nightmare

S&P 500 2024 Performance

In a twist of financial fate that reads more like a Wall Street thriller (for analysts) than a government budget report, California Governor Gavin Newsom narrowly escaped a major fiscal crisis in 2024 – thanks to an unexpected surge in tech stock valuations.  The $7.1 Billion Silicon Valley Bailout According to the Legislative Analyst’s Office […]

Asset Management Series Part 5: Modern Asset Management Tools & Technology: Driving Efficiency Through Innovation

Tools and Technology for Real Estate Asset Management

In today’s digital age, leveraging modern technology is crucial for effective multifamily asset management. Let’s explore the essential tools and technologies that are transforming the industry. Core Technology Systems 1. Property Management Platforms Centralized operations management Integrated accounting Lease management Resident screening Document management 2. Maintenance Management Systems Work order tracking Preventive maintenance scheduling Asset […]

Asset Management Series Part 4: Financial Planning & Optimization: Maximizing Asset Value

Maximizing Asset Value

Effective financial planning and optimization are essential for maximizing multifamily asset value. Proper planning leads to less stress, better operations, and ultimately higher property valuations. From annual budgeting to refinance analyses, asset managers utilize various strategies to ensure optimal performance. Budgeting and Forecasting The budgeting process typically begins in the fall prior to the next […]