A Once-Per-Decade Opportunity Is Beginning to Emerge

Multifamily continues to lead all asset classes in investment activity nationwide, and that’s not changing. 

Over the past few years, multifamily real estate has weathered higher rates, record construction, and nonstop uncertainty. According to Colliers’ 2026 CRE Outlook: Stability Through Uncertainty, that period is now giving way to something far more constructive.

The big takeaway: the fundamentals are lining up.

Multifamily continues to lead all asset classes in investment activity nationwide, and that’s not changing. Even after a historic development cycle, occupancies are holding up remarkably well, and pressure from new supply is easing quickly as construction starts slow across most markets. This pause is exactly what the sector needed—and it sets the stage for stronger performance ahead.

Perhaps most encouraging is where demand is strongest. Colliers highlights ongoing housing shortages in middle-market and workforce housing—units priced at or below median household income. Despite years of building, many communities simply do not have enough attainable housing. With homeownership still out of reach for many families, long-term rental demand remains durable and compelling.

Operational discipline is also becoming a major tailwind. As costs rise, the gap between average owners and best-in-class operators is widening. Investors who focus on efficiency, resident experience, and thoughtful asset management are increasingly positioned to outperform the market.

Finally, market dislocation is creating opportunity. Refinancing pressure and loan maturities are beginning to surface selective distress, particularly in assets underwritten at peak pricing. For patient, well-capitalized groups, this reset is opening the door to high-quality acquisitions with long-term upside.

In short, multifamily is moving from a period of excess supply and caution to one of normalization, balance, and opportunity. The noise may persist—but the underlying story is increasingly positive.

We believe the coming years will reward long-term thinking, disciplined underwriting, and hands-on ownership. That’s exactly where our focus remains.

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Source: Colliers International, “The 2026 CRE Reset: Stability Through Uncertainty,” U.S. Research Report

Download a copy of the report here