The housing market in the United States is constantly evolving, and one of the latest trends is build-to-rent communities. Build-to-rent (BTR) communities offer renters a chance to experience suburban living without the costs and responsibilities of homeownership. With affordability challenges on the rise, could a build-to-rent community be right for you? Let’s go over what makes these communities special and highly sought-after in today’s rental market.
What Is a Build-to-Rent Community?
A build-to-rent community is a professionally managed housing development comprised of single-family homes, townhomes, or entire neighborhoods specifically built or acquired for renting. Build-to-rent communities differ from traditional apartments because they typically feature standalone or semi-detached properties designed to feel like a suburban neighborhood.
Even though these communities are built to look like neighborhoods, renters still have many of the conveniences that come with living in an apartment community. Fitness centers, swimming pools, communal outdoor spaces, and parking areas may be just steps from your front door, only now you don’t have to climb multiple flights of stairs or wait for an elevator.
Why Are Build-to-Rent Communities Growing?
Data from the National Association of Home Builders found that BTR community construction was up by 21 percent in the third quarter of 2025. Of 109,000 multifamily residences that began construction in that quarter, 102,000 were build-to-rent homes.
Build-to-rent communities are gaining popularity because of the convenience and financial flexibility they offer renters. They’re a popular option for renters who want the space of a home without taking on a mortgage, property taxes, or long-term maintenance costs. High mortgage rates and declining home affordability are leading many to consider build-to-rent communities as an alternative to homeownership.
Key Features of Build-to-Rent Communities
Build-to-rent communities are often comprised of single-family standalone homes, providing renters with more space and privacy than a traditional apartment, sometimes at a comparable monthly cost. Some key home features of build-to-rent communities are:
- Standalone or semi-detached homes
- Private entrances
- Garages or driveways
- Small yards and backyards
- Modern appliances
- New construction finishes (depending on when the community was built)
Community amenities are a major draw for many renters, and build-to-rent communities often offer similar perks to apartment communities. A couple of key community features in BTR communities are:
- Swimming pools
- Clubhouses
- Fitness centers
- Walking trails
- Dog parks
- Gated entrances
- Communal lounges
One reason homeownership can feel intimidating is the responsibility of handling maintenance and repairs. Build-to-rent communities typically include maintenance services, landscaping, and flexible lease terms managed by a professional property management company. This means you can enjoy the space of a home while keeping the flexibility that renting provides.
Potential Drawbacks of a Build-to-Rent Home
Build-to-rent communities, while a growing segment of the rental housing market, may come with tradeoffs to consider. Because many BTR communities are newly constructed, rent prices can sometimes be higher than older apartment communities in the same area.
These neighborhoods often offer a suburban setting, which may mean less walkability and longer commutes compared to apartments in urban centers. Like traditional apartment communities, build-to-rent homes also come with lease agreements that may include guidelines around noise, décor changes, and pet policies.
Before signing a lease, carefully review the terms and verify which amenities and services are included so you can decide whether a build-to-rent home aligns with your lifestyle. Use Apartments.com’s Rent Affordability Calculator to determine whether or not your budget falls within the 50/30/20 guidelines often suggested by landlords.
Is a Build-to-Rent Community Is Right for You?
It’s important to weigh the benefits and tradeoffs before choosing a build-to-rent community. These communities are perfect for renters who want more space, value flexibility, and prefer a suburban lifestyle without the cost and responsibility of buying a home. However, a build-to-rent home may not be ideal if you prefer urban living with full renovation freedom and control. As the rental market continues to evolve, build-to-rent communities are becoming an increasingly popular housing solution that provides an affordable alternative to increasing mortgage rates for renters who want to buy a home.
Let Apartments.com Help You Find the Perfect Home
Whether you’re searching for a high-rise apartment in the city or a new build-to-rent home in a suburban neighborhood, Apartments.com can help you find the right fit. With advanced search filters, you can search for home type and specialty housing to find the perfect housing solution for you. Start your search today!
This article was originally published on October 12, 2023 by Helen Ann Wells.
FAQs
What is a build-to-rent community?
A build-to-rent community is a neighborhood of single-family homes or townhomes built or bought by a private entity specifically for renting and managed by a professional property management company. It’s designed to feel like suburban living while keeping the flexibility of renting.
How are build-to-rent communities different from an apartment?
A build-to-rent community typically offers more space, private entrances, and a yard or garage. Apartments usually share walls, hallways, and building entrances, with different parking and noise considerations.
Are build-to-rent community homes more expensive than apartments?
A build-to-rent community home can cost more than an apartment depending on factors such as construction date, location, and size.
