Author: Rent Magazine Contributor

On August 11, 2023, Propy, a blockchain-based real estate platform, made an important announcement regarding its expansion into international markets. Propy, which has been a pioneer in leveraging blockchain technology for real estate transactions, revealed that it would now enable buyers and sellers across multiple countries to complete property transactions using cryptocurrency and blockchain contracts. Key Features of the Expansion Propy’s platform is designed to simplify and streamline the traditionally cumbersome real estate transaction process, particularly in cross-border transactions. Some of the key features of Propy’s expansion include: Blockchain Technology: By using blockchain, Propy removes the need for intermediaries like…

The commercial real estate market saw a notable shift in September 2023, with businesses across major urban centers increasingly seeking flexible office spaces. This change was driven by the ongoing evolution of hybrid work models, which continue to reshape the way companies think about their office requirements. As businesses strive to find a balance between remote work and in-office collaboration, flexible office leases are becoming the preferred option for many organizations. The Surge in Demand for Flexibility In September 2023, commercial leasing trends indicated a significant rise in the demand for flexible office spaces. The demand was particularly high among…

As of September 8, 2023, the National Association of Realtors (NAR) reported an unprecedented surge in single-family home sales in suburban and exurban areas, driven by an ongoing demand for more space and the continued rise of remote work. This shift is reshaping the housing market, with homebuyers, homebuilders, real estate agents, and remote workers all contributing to the growing appeal of larger homes outside major urban centers. A key moment in this trend was the notable increase in home sales in suburban and exurban regions, particularly in areas like the Midwest and South, where affordability remains higher than in…

Private investment in student housing, specifically in dormitories, saw a slight uptick in the second quarter of 2023, according to data from the Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA). The investment rose by 1% to a seasonally adjusted annual rate (SAAR) of $3.6 billion, following a 6.4% increase in the first quarter of 2023. Despite this growth, private fixed investment in student housing is still 8.7% higher than the same time last year but remains below pre-pandemic levels. Recovery from Pandemic Decline The student housing sector experienced a significant decline during the pandemic. In the aftermath of the Great Recession, private…

The ICC Summit 2023, held in the vibrant city of San Diego, was a pivotal event in the real estate world, drawing over 500 professionals from across the industry. Organized by Icenhower Coaching & Consulting, the summit provided a dynamic platform for real estate agents, brokers, and coaches to come together, share knowledge, and explore the latest trends shaping the market. Spanning four days, the summit was packed with high-energy mastermind sessions, networking opportunities, and discussions focused on the future of real estate. Icenhower Coaching & Consulting, a leading name in the real estate coaching space, played a significant role…

Homie Launches AI-Powered Transaction Coordination Tool for Real Estate Professionals On August 3, 2023, Homie, a leading proptech company, launched an innovative AI-powered transaction coordination tool designed to revolutionize the real estate industry. This cutting-edge platform utilizes advanced machine learning algorithms to automate many of the administrative tasks traditionally managed by real estate agents and transaction coordinators. The tool aims to reduce human error, save time on paperwork, and expedite the closing process by automating routine tasks that once required constant human oversight. Key Features and Functionality Homie’s new transaction coordination tool offers a wide array of features tailored to…

As of September 1, 2023, a report from the Tiny Home Builders Association reveals a significant rise in demand for tiny homes, as more buyers seek affordable and sustainable living options. This trend, driven by homebuyers, developers, architects, and environmentalists, reflects a growing desire for downsized, eco-friendly living spaces that align with both financial and environmental values. A pivotal moment in this shift came with the launch of several new tiny home communities, particularly in suburban and rural areas, where buyers are increasingly attracted to the low cost of ownership and the environmentally friendly features of these homes. Tiny homes,…

In August 2023, two key trends dramatically reshaped the commercial real estate market: the rise of hybrid work and the increasing priority of sustainability. These changes, driven by shifting tenant needs and heightened environmental concerns, are altering how office spaces are leased and utilized. With businesses reevaluating their workspace requirements, landlords are being forced to adapt in order to remain competitive. The result is a more flexible, eco-conscious market, with lasting implications for both the real estate industry and the businesses that rely on it. The Shift Toward Flexible Commercial Leasing One of the most significant transformations in commercial leasing…

In August 2023, RE/MAX Australia held its highly anticipated RMX23 Conference, a dynamic multi-day event designed to spark inspiration and provide valuable insights for real estate professionals across the country. This annual gathering brought together a diverse mix of mindset coaches, futurists, and top-tier real estate agents to create an environment of growth and empowerment. Throughout the event, attendees were treated to a wide range of sessions tailored to meet the unique needs of real estate professionals navigating an ever-evolving industry. With a strong focus on personal development, market trends, and innovative strategies, RMX23 aimed to equip agents with the…

Wood framing continues to dominate the construction of single-family homes in the U.S., with new data from the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) revealing that 94% of new homes completed in 2022 were wood-framed. This marks the third consecutive year of growth in wood-framed home construction, up from 90% in 2019. Other framing methods, such as concrete and steel, remain far less common, with concrete-framed homes comprising 6% and steel-framed homes accounting for less than half a percent of completions. The Rise of Wood Framing In 2022, there were 956,000 wood-framed homes completed, a 7% increase from 2021. This…