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Why ‘build to rent’ communities are booming in Houston

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Houston is experiencing a significant surge in build-to-rent (BTR) communities, emerging as one of the top markets for this innovative housing solution in the United States. As of 2025, the city ranks 5th nationwide in the construction of new single-family homes for rent, with 4,613 units expected to be built this year alone.

Driving Factors

Several key factors are fueling this boom:

  1. Affordability Challenges: With Houston’s home prices soaring 43% between 2018 and 2023, many residents find themselves priced out of traditional homeownership. BTR communities offer a more affordable alternative, allowing tenants to save around $1,000 per month compared to buying a starter home.
  1. Economic Growth: Houston’s thriving job market and business-friendly environment make it an attractive destination for professionals seeking flexible living arrangements.
  2. Demographic Shifts: Millennials and Gen Z, in particular, are drawn to BTR communities as they navigate student loan debt and seek to avoid high property taxes while maintaining proximity to urban centers.
  3. Space and Amenities: BTR homes often provide larger layouts, premium finishes, and access to community amenities like pools and fitness centers, offering a blend of apartment convenience and single-family home comfort.

The BTR Landscape

Houston’s BTR sector has seen remarkable growth:

Impact on the Housing Market

The rise of BTR communities is reshaping Houston’s rental landscape:

  1. Flexibility for Residents: BTR offers the perfect balance between renting and homeownership, catering to those seeking stability without long-term commitments.
  2. Investment Opportunity: Developers and investors are capitalizing on the growing demand, with companies like Camden Development and McLain Companies leading major projects.
  3. Suburban Expansion: As urban areas become more congested and expensive, BTR properties in suburban locations offer more space and affordability while maintaining connectivity to city centers.

Looking Ahead

As Houston continues to grow and evolve, BTR communities are poised to play an increasingly important role in the city’s housing ecosystem. With over 21,800 BTR units planned or under construction across Texas in 2025, this trend shows no signs of slowing down.

While BTR communities offer a solution to current housing challenges, their long-term impact on homeownership rates and community dynamics remains to be seen. As the market matures, it will be crucial to monitor how these developments integrate into Houston’s diverse neighborhoods and affect overall housing affordability.



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Ghislaine Maxwell Ready to Testify on Epstein’s Client List

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Ghislaine Maxwell Signals Willingness to Speak Before Congress

A new chapter may be opening in the continuing saga surrounding Jeffrey Epstein, as Ghislaine Maxwell—once the financier’s closest confidante—has reportedly indicated her willingness to testify before Congress about the much-rumored “Epstein client list.According to a source cited by the Daily Mail, Maxwell is prepared to provide details if asked, potentially offering answers to questions that have circulated since Epstein’s arrest and subsequent death in 2019.

The Background: Maxwell’s Involvement and Conviction

Maxwell was convicted in 2022 for her critical role in enabling and participating in Epstein’s illicit activities, which spanned multiple locations including New York, Palm Beach, and a private Caribbean island. Currently serving a 20-year federal sentence in Tallahassee, Florida, she has long been viewed as a key figure behind Epstein’s inner circle, privy to people and secrets that have yet to be made public.

Congressional Testimony: Possibility or Speculation?

Despite the tantalizing claim that Maxwell is “willing and eager” to testify, no congressional committee has formally requested her appearance. The client list—often referenced in media and political circles as proof of high-profile involvement—remains elusive and unverified. Yet, the possibility of Maxwell testifying has reignited public demands for transparency and accountability, especially given the lack of closure for many of Epstein’s victims.

Legal and Political Ramifications

Legal experts have weighed in on the impact such testimony could bring. Alan Dershowitz, Epstein’s former lawyer, underlined in a recent interview that if Maxwell did appear before Congress and implicated prominent figures—including any political candidates—it could have dramatic ramifications, potentially even affecting discussions about presidential pardons. Dershowitz also emphasized that Maxwell’s sentence is “way too long” and expressed hope for its commutation, portraying her as both a perpetrator and a victim.

Lingering Questions About Epstein’s Death

Questions persist regarding Epstein’s death in a New York jail in 2019. Recent discussions have focused on missing security footage and potential lapses in prison protocol, sparking renewed debates about possible foul play or institutional negligence.

The Broader Impact: Will Testimony Change the Narrative?

While no invitation from Congress has materialized, the idea of Maxwell testifying continues to capture the attention of both the public and the press. For the many individuals impacted by Epstein’s crimes, Maxwell’s potential revelations carry both hope for long-awaited answers and concern over whether justice will truly be served.

With the Epstein investigation seemingly at a standstill yet still alive in the headlines, all eyes remain on whether Ghislaine Maxwell will ever get the chance to tell what she knows under oath—and if she does, what names and stories might finally emerge from the shadows.

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Business

Pros and Cons of the Big Beautiful Bill

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The “Big Beautiful Bill” (officially the One Big Beautiful Bill Act) is a sweeping tax and spending package passed in July 2025. It makes permanent many Trump-era tax cuts, introduces new tax breaks for working Americans, and enacts deep cuts to federal safety-net programs. The bill also increases spending on border security and defense, while rolling back clean energy incentives and tightening requirements for social programs.

Pros

1. Tax Relief for Middle and Working-Class Families

2. Support for Small Businesses and Economic Growth

  • Makes the small business deduction permanent, supporting Main Street businesses.
  • Expands expensing for investment in short-lived assets and domestic R&D, which is considered pro-growth.

3. Increased Spending on Security and Infrastructure

4. Simplification and Fairness in the Tax Code

  • Expands the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and raises marginal rates on individuals earning over $400,000.
  • Closes various deductions and loopholes, especially those benefiting private equity and multinational corporations.

Cons

1. Deep Cuts to Social Safety Net Programs

  • Cuts Medicaid by approximately $930 billion and imposes new work requirements, which could leave millions without health insurance.
  • Tightens eligibility and work requirements for SNAP (food assistance), potentially removing benefits from many low-income families.
  • Rolls back student loan forgiveness and repeals Biden-era subsidies.

2. Increases the Federal Deficit

  • The bill is projected to add $3.3–4 trillion to the federal deficit over 10 years.
  • Critics argue that the combination of tax cuts and increased spending is fiscally irresponsible.

3. Benefits Skewed Toward the Wealthy

  • The largest income gains go to affluent Americans, with top earners seeing significant after-tax increases.
  • Critics describe the bill as the largest upward transfer of wealth in recent U.S. history.

4. Rollback of Clean Energy and Climate Incentives

5. Potential Harm to Healthcare and Rural Hospitals

6. Public and Political Backlash

  • The bill is unpopular in public polls and is seen as a political risk for its supporters.
  • Critics warn it will widen the gap between rich and poor and reverse progress on alternative energy and healthcare.

Summary Table

ProsCons
Permanent middle-class tax cutsDeep Medicaid and SNAP cuts
No tax on tips/overtime for most workersMillions may lose health insurance
Doubled Child Tax CreditAdds $3.3–4T to deficit
Small business supportBenefits skewed to wealthy
Increased border/defense spendingClean energy incentives eliminated
Simplifies some tax provisionsThreatens rural hospitals
Public backlash, political risk

In summary:
The Big Beautiful Bill delivers significant tax relief and new benefits for many working and middle-class Americans, but it does so at the cost of deep cuts to social programs, a higher federal deficit, and reduced support for clean energy and healthcare. The bill is highly polarizing, with supporters touting its pro-growth and pro-family provisions, while critics warn of increased inequality and harm to vulnerable populations.

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Business & Money

How Agents Can Thrive Under New Real Estate Rules

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The real estate industry is undergoing significant changes due to recent legal settlements and new regulations. These shifts present both challenges and opportunities for agents. By adapting strategies and focusing on value-added services, real estate professionals cannot only survive but thrive in this new landscape.

Here’s how:

Understand the Key Changes

  1. Sellers are no longer required to pay buyer’s agent commissions.
  2. Written agreements with buyers detailing services and costs are now mandatory.
  3. Offers of compensation for buyer’s agents will no longer be listed on Multiple Listing Services.
  4.  These will be required before touring homes.

 6 Strategies for Success

 1. Educate Clients and Yourself

Stay informed about the latest changes and be prepared to explain them clearly to clients. This knowledge will position you as an expert and trusted advisor. Consider creating educational materials or hosting seminars for potential clients to demonstrate your expertise.

2. Diversify Your Service Offerings

With buyers potentially facing higher out-of-pocket costs, consider offering a range of service levels at different price points. This could include:

    • Full-service representation
    • À la carte services
    • Flat-fee options for specific tasks

3. Emphasize Your Value Proposition

With increased transparency, it’s crucial to clearly articulate the value you bring to transactions. Develop a strong personal brand and marketing strategy that highlights your unique skills, local market knowledge, and track record of success.

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4. Embrace Technology

Leverage technology to streamline your processes and offer enhanced services to clients. This could include:

    • Virtual tours and 3D property walkthroughs
    • Advanced market analysis tools
    • Client relationship management (CRM) systems

5. Focus on Building Relationships

With fewer buyers potentially working with agents, focus on building strong, long-term relationships with clients. Provide exceptional service that leads to referrals and repeat business.

6. Develop Negotiation Skills

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As commission structures become more flexible, strong negotiation skills will be crucial. Invest in training to enhance your ability to advocate for your clients and your own interests.
Data Insights

While specific data on the impact of these new rules is still emerging, some trends are worth noting:

  • The average commission rate for real estate agents has been declining. In 2022, the average rate was 5.37%, down from 5.61% in 2015 (Source: Real Trends).
  • A 2023 National Association of Realtors survey found that 26% of buyers did not use an agent, up from 17% in 2012.

These trends suggest that agents who can adapt to the new landscape and demonstrate clear value will be best positioned for success.
 

The changes in real estate regulations present an opportunity for innovative and client-focused agents to differentiate themselves. By embracing transparency, offering flexible service models, and continually educating both themselves and their clients, agents can thrive in this new era of real estate.

Remember, as one industry professional noted, “Never a better time to get into the business. Agents are scared of change. It’s the best time to capitalize on the changes and adapting. As agents drop out they leave behind market share that you can pick up.”

By viewing these changes as an opportunity rather than a threat, and by focusing on providing exceptional value to clients, real estate agents can navigate this shifting landscape successfully and build thriving, sustainable businesses.

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