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Key Investment Takeaways from the New Home Insights Podcast

The New Home Insights Podcast, hosted by Dean Wehrli and produced by John Burns Research & Consulting, recently featured Sean Dobson, Chairman, CEO, and CIO of Amherst. Dobson shared sharp insights into single-family rentals (SFR), housing supply, and construction trends. Below are six key takeaways for real estate investors.

1. Data-Driven Decision Making is Crucial

Dobson highlighted Amherst’s proprietary system that live-prices 95 million homes in real time. While most investors won’t need that scale, leveraging housing data is essential for pricing, trend analysis, and risk management. Partnering with analytic lenders like LYNK Capital can further support smart, data-backed decisions.

2. Single-Family Rentals Are a Long-Term Investment Play

SFRs have gained momentum as housing affordability declines. With mortgage costs up 80% since 2019 and incomes up only 17%, quality rentals are in high demand. Investors should view SFRs as a durable asset class offering steady income and long-term potential.

3. Build-to-Rent (BTR) Must Align with Location

Dobson cautioned that some BTR developments fail due to poor location choices. Success depends on matching product design to nearby amenities, schools, and job centers. Investors should evaluate whether a BTR community supports the lifestyle tenants are seeking.

4. Urban Core Investment Still Has Upside

While many investors chase suburban expansion, Dobson remains bullish on urban housing. Well-located urban projects benefit from infrastructure, walkability, and services. Despite zoning complexities, urban investments can yield high returns and strong tenant demand.

5. Housing Supply Challenges Vary by Market

From labor shortages in flexible markets like Atlanta to zoning roadblocks in tighter cities, housing constraints are local. Dobson emphasized that policy and market solutions are both needed. Investors should track local regulations that impact development and deal flow.

6. Rethinking the NIMBY Mindset on Rentals

Resistance to rental homes often stems from poor management, not the concept of rentals. Dobson argued that well-managed SFRs offer safe, stable housing to families not yet ready to buy. Investors should focus on high-quality management to maintain property value and community goodwill.

Final Thoughts

Sean Dobson’s insights offer a playbook for modern real estate investing. Embrace data, think long-term with rentals, and explore urban opportunities. As affordability pressures shift housing demand, investors who evolve their strategies will stay ahead.

Listen to the full conversation on the New Home Insights Podcast from John Burns Research & Consulting.