Build-to-rent communities represent a growing segment of the real estate industry, highlighting a fundamental shift towards balancing comfort and convenience. Tenants want to experience certain perks of ownership but they also want the flexibility of renting. BTR is not simply repackaging standard apartment living under a new, trendy name. It is about building real, sustainable neighborhoods with craftsmanship and care.
What Build-to-Rent Means (And What It Means to Us)
We mentioned what build-to-rent is not – that is, simply rebranding typical apartments to enhance appeal. It’s an important distinction to make because these communities are just that: communities. They’re neighborhoods comprised of single-family homes, duplexes, and in some cases, townhouses, that are specifically designed and built for long-term rental and managed by a single entity.
BTR typically offers apartment-style amenities (e.g. gyms, maintenance services, communal spaces, etc.) with a community-focused feel, both of which are key drivers in their growth. Tenants feel like they can put down roots in their neighborhood and space while taking advantage of renting’s flexibility should they decide to move.
To Bedrock Builders, build-to-rent means:
- Well-appointed single duplexes and single-level homes purpose-built for long-term rental
- Units offering nicer finishes than one expects in massive highrise complexes
- High quality, market rate rentals
- An opportunity for developers to fill a pressing need in the housing market while realizing stable cash flow and reliable returns.
Prospective tenants value the benefits, from maintenance-free living to the neighborly environment to the all-important flexibility, and they don’t want to sacrifice quality.
Strong Investment Potential for Developers
Within the Indiana residential development space, build-to-rent is, as yet, a relatively untapped market. Upscale BTR properties can be one solution to middle-market housing where the built environment isn’t currently filling that gap. These properties can also be a compelling opportunity. Professionally-managed BTR communities deliver consistent income, retain long-term value, and, due to the merging of comfort and convenience, attract renters who want to stay for the long-term.
For the people driving this trend – the empty-nesters, downsizers, young professionals – build-to-rent offers solutions for those typically underserved by conventional apartments and for-sale housing both. The bottom line is that high-quality rental homes are in demand, and this will only continue. BTR is a strategic, forward-looking investment.
Building Stronger Communities
Bedrock Builders’ approach is centered around the belief that a project is more than just buildings. It should enrich the community, delivering lasting value. Thoughtfully-designed and executed build-to-rent strengthens rather than strains neighborhoods. From a community standpoint, BTR serves to add well-managed housing without creating density issues, blending seamlessly into the residential area.
Rental options allow residents who want to stay in a certain locale but aren’t ready, able, or willing to buy. Again, designed for long-term tenancy, BTR offers all the comforts of home – with far fewer maintenance and overhead hassles.
By prioritizing quality fair market residences with an authentic neighborhood appeal, build-to-rent not only becomes a key component of the overall housing mix but an integral part of a location’s character (and, of course, its economy).
The Bedrock Builders Edge
It’s common for developers wading into the build-to-rent space to come from a background of apartment highrises and large-scale complexes. We come from a different place: home.
Our roots are in custom homebuilding, our history in the very products that define build-to-rent. We bring this insight to each project, working with developers to create rentals and neighborhoods that feel intentional, cohesive, livable, and welcoming. To this we add our experience in large-scale, multifamily initiatives to ensure you realize the financial returns you, and your stakeholders, expect.
Gain the Edge
BTR marks an evolution in the rental market, catering to those who want quality, comfort, convenience, and flexibility. Who want to rent. Who want to live in strong neighborhoods. Developers have the opportunity to build not just rentals, but communities. Bedrock Builders is uniquely positioned to help them seize it.
Have a build-to-rent project in mind? Connect with Bedrock Builders to discuss your goals and next steps.