What do you think about the future of rental housing regulation?

[Andrey Rudenko]

What do you guys think about next 10 years of regulation, both federal and state, regarding rentals? What we are seeing here in Massachusetts is consistent efforts to pass legislation like 2% real estate transfer tax, tenants right of first refusal, some sort of rent control, a form of eviction moratoria etc. These bills come up for vote but most do not pass so far from what I understand. 

With the rents growing way faster than incomes, do you see proliferation of subsidized housing and increased regulation? Or do you think this environment will change over time from weak property rights to stronger property rights?

[Bjorn Ahlblad]

@Andrey Rudenko Most states will pass tenant friendly legislation. A few may favor LL. Rents will continue to rise faster than wages. Most tenants recognize the value proposition for good rentals, and know they need to pay rent. Just like most LL value good tenants and treat them well.

How well you screen, or how well your PM screens, will go a long way to determine success or failure. As a template for 10 years into the future look at Europe. Most places are very tenant friendly-an eviction may take 5 years. Dismal right? No, there are successful LL's there. You just need to be real good at picking the right tenant and offering them value and safety. IMO anyway.