Corporations as landlords

Large private corporations are playing an increasingly direct role in the purchase of affordable housing and rental stock. In 2021 and 2022, the topprivate equity firmsowned more than one million apartments in large, midsized, and small cities and communities across the nation. After purchasing properties, many firms seek to maximize their profits through cost-cutting, additional fees for rental agreements and payments, and aggressive evictions followed by major rent increases. Should this continue, communities may see a reduced stock of affordable housing and increased homelessness. Planners should be prepared to recognize these trends at the local level and work to ensure housing accessibility and affordability for all.