As the leader in student housing finance, Walker & Dunlop, Inc. shares market trends and analysis of the current landscape in its newly published housing report. Placing as both Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac’s #1 Student Housing Lender in 2023, the team possesses unparalleled expertise and a pulse on the industry, providing valuable insights for developers and investors.

Fueled by a rise in university enrollment and changing student preferences, the student housing landscape has evolved into a sophisticated, amenity-rich environment, transcending its origins.

"The student housing industry has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years. What was once a modest sector characterized by localized operations has now blossomed into a thriving marketplace, attracting national and international investors seeking superior yields," said Will Baker, senior managing director of Student Housing at Walker & Dunlop. "Gone are the days of boring concrete dorm rooms and budget-conscious off-campus apartments. Today, we witness a convergence of demographic shifts and modern student preferences, propelling the industry into new realms of growth and innovation."

Reasons to have eyes on the market changes:

• Student housing rent growth is outperforming conventional multifamily assets in several prominent markets.
• Pre-leasing velocity continues to shift earlier as top markets become more competitive amidst growing university enrollment.
• Premier off-campus student housing has emerged as a competitive advantage for colleges in their new student recruiting programs.
• Advancements in student-athletic contracts have helped put smaller schools on the radar of national developers and investors.

"Despite facing headwinds such as doubled interest rates and broader macroeconomic challenges, W&D remains steadfast in our commitment to clients and students. While we acknowledge the current challenges, we see them as opportunities for resurgence," said Christopher Epp, managing director, Walker & Dunlop Investment Sales. "Our experts forecast continued outperformance relative to other asset classes, thanks to the robust fundamentals that underpin the student housing sector."

With a total financing volume exceeding $12.7 billion and total property sales volume surpassing $10 billion in student housing, Walker & Dunlop is a trusted partner in the industry and leader in shaping the future of student housing financing.

For insights on student housing and to explore key trends shaping the market, download Walker & Dunlop’s 2024 Student Housing Outlook report here.

About Walker & Dunlop

Walker & Dunlop (NYSE: WD) is one of the largest commercial real estate finance and advisory services firms in the United States. Our ideas and capital create communities where people live, work, shop, and play. The diversity of our people, breadth of our brand and technological capabilities make us one of the most insightful and client-focused firms in the commercial real estate industry.

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