COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE'S ECONOMIC ADVISORS

CPI inflation ticks higher in March while NAHB’s Remodeling Market Index signals continued expansion, with forward-looking indicators softening. This week’s Rental Housing Weekly Briefing breaks down what it means for housing demand and investment conditions.

The War in the Middle East has undoubtedly raised fears over inflation pressures and shaken up interest rate projections since it began. Still, it appears that markets are at least marginally more optimistic about its impact now than immediately after the war's outbreak.

A data-driven look at where remote work has declined and expanded across US metros since 2021, revealing a sharp pullback in major office markets and continued growth across the Southeast.

Rental housing trends show rising multifamily CMBS delinquencies and moderating home price growth, highlighting ongoing capital markets pressure and shifting housing dynamics.

NYC rent growth remained resilient in early 2026, with Manhattan leading year-over-year gains and Brooklyn continuing to drive short-term momentum across the boroughs.

Apartment prices show early signs of stabilization as rent collections continue to improve, pointing to a more constructive backdrop for rental housing.

On-time rent payments rose again in March 2026, extending the recovery from late-2025 lows, though late-payment pressure remains elevated and new macro risks are emerging.

Multifamily rent growth remains near flat as the market operates in a low-growth environment. This week’s briefing also highlights key takeaways from Arbor’s Q1 2026 SFR report and upcoming data releases.

National rents rose 1.2% year-over-year in February, down from 1.4% in January and 1.6% in December, marking a continued slowdown from the modest re-acceleration observed in late 2024. While rent growth remains positive, the trend has clearly softened, reflecting ongoing supply pressures and a normalization in demand following the post-pandemic surge.