Author: Rent Magazine Contributor

A July 2025 report from JLL Spark outlines a pivotal moment in commercial real estate (CRE), detailing how artificial intelligence and robotics are swiftly transforming operational models across the industry. Propelled by rapidly advancing generative AI and Falling hardware costs, property owners and management firms are adopting automated solutions for maintenance, security, tenant engagement, and strategic decision-making. Robotics are entering commercial buildings in a big way, taking on routine tasks such as security patrols, cleaning, and systems inspections. These autonomous systems, often cloud-connected, monitor infrastructure health and compile real-time data that feed AI-driven predictive maintenance platforms. In doing so, they preempt…

The U.S. rental housing market is undergoing a rapid evolution as property owners and managers increasingly adopt PropTech solutions to meet the rising expectations of tenants and streamline their operations. As of July 2025, digital tools like virtual apartment tours, contactless leasing, online rent payment systems, and smart-home technology have become widely integrated into multifamily and single-family housing across both urban and suburban settings. Virtual tours and augmented reality walkthroughs have revolutionized the apartment search process. Instead of relying on static photos or scheduling in-person visits, prospective tenants can now explore properties remotely with high-resolution, 360-degree views. Some platforms have…

New data from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) shows that foreign investment in U.S. residential real estate surged to $56 billion between April 2024 and March 2025—the strongest level since 2017. This marks a 33% increase in total dollar volume and a 44% increase in the number of properties purchased, signaling renewed global interest in American housing. According to the NAR’s 2025 International Transactions in U.S. Residential Real Estate report, foreign buyers purchased 78,100 existing homes, compared to approximately 54,300 homes in the prior year. This is the first year-over-year rise in foreign purchases since 2017. The resurgence follows…

On July 18, 2025, the National Association of Realtors (NAR) released data revealing a notable boost in consumer confidence tied to stabilizing mortgage rates and strong employment figures. This uplift is translating into increased rental activity—particularly in urban, multifamily housing markets. As homebuying remains financially out of reach for many, a surge of renter demand is reshaping apartment dynamics across major metro areas. Mortgage rates have hovered near the 5.5% mark, offering a sense of relief compared to the 6%–7% range that prevailed earlier this year. Though still elevated by historical standards, this relative stability has encouraged some prospective homeowners…

July 17, 2025, marked a remarkable fusion of flavors and digital culture as restaurants and cafés across the nation celebrated World Emoji Day and National Peach Ice Cream Day. This unique pairing prompted creative marketing efforts—from peach-ice-cream delights to emoji-themed accessories—driving boosts in foot traffic, media engagement, and customer interaction. World Emoji Day, founded in 2014 by Emojipedia, takes place annually on July 17, the date shown on the calendar emoji. It’s widely observed by brands announcing new emojis, launching social media challenges, and running promotional events. Meanwhile, National Peach Ice Cream Day taps into the summer peach season, offering…

The summer rental market for 2025 isn’t just hot—it’s sweet. On July 17, suburban rental communities across the country—from Raleigh townhomes to Seattle condos—unveiled playful “Peach Ice‑Cream Social” weekend events. Property managers hosted these gatherings to blend casual open houses with peach-flavored frozen treats, aiming to create neighborly vibes and enhance amenity showcases. Many managers reported a notable uptick in foot traffic and online applications following the themed weekends. One Austin-based coordinator observed, “It creates a welcoming atmosphere—residents linger longer, and prospects feel at home,” capturing the spirit behind the initiative. Across the U.S., rental demand remains strong—even in the…

Following the July 16 release of pivotal data at ENDO 2025 demonstrating that GLP‑1 therapies can restore testosterone levels in overweight men, health-tech developers are rapidly responding. Across the wellness app space, startups and established platforms alike are integrating new hormone-tracking features designed to accompany users through medication journeys and enhance clinical oversight. These updated apps now enable users to log testosterone test results on their smartphones, tying results to lifestyle and biometric data streams such as diet, exercise, sleep, body weight, and GLP‑1 dosing schedules. The goal is to create an end-to-end digital loop where patients can observe the interplay between…

In the wake of July 16’s health news confirming that GLP‑1 medications can help obese men restore testosterone levels, real estate agents across the United States are reporting a noticeable increase in demand for homes with built-in fitness amenities. This emerging preference is particularly strong among male buyers who are embracing holistic health routines and seeking environments that support their physical and hormonal wellness goals. The correlation between personal health trends and real estate priorities has been building for several years, but the latest medical findings have accelerated interest in wellness-oriented properties. According to industry analysts, homes equipped with dedicated…

Commercial real estate is entering a pivotal moment in 2025 as solar power adoption accelerates across office buildings, retail centers, warehouses, and industrial sites. With rising electricity prices, an expanding suite of government incentives, and growing demand for sustainability from tenants and investors, property owners are increasingly embracing solar installations as a strategic investment. Property operators are turning to solar primarily to reduce energy costs and enhance asset value. As conventional utility rates rise, solar panels can lower monthly electricity expenses by 20–30% or more depending on building type and location. The savings potential is particularly compelling where price volatility…

July brings a predictable seasonal upswing in the U.S. housing market, marking a shift toward pre-pandemic normalcy characterized by stronger buyer activity, rising inventory, and stabilizing prices. Here’s a comprehensive look at the latest trends and what they mean for buyers, sellers, and real estate professionals. The national housing supply has climbed significantly, with roughly 4.0 to 4.4 months of inventory available—up from pandemic-era lows and approaching pre‑COVID norms. Realtor.com reports a 27% year-over-year increase in active listings leading into July. Although new listings remain elevated, the pace of inventory growth appears to be plateauing as the summer market reaches…