Discover key signals from the real world that point toward a major market shift in multifamily real estate, plus 5 smart strategies you need to prepare for what’s coming next.
You’ll learn:
- Key pressure points affecting multifamily owners
- Emerging trends that could reshape your investing strategy
- The 5 smart strategies you need to navigate and win in a buyer’s market
- Why this cycle shift could be your gateway to generational wealth
Shifting Trends
Every month, we analyze hundreds of multifamily deals with our students. It’s in these real-world trenches where I’ve gained my most valuable insights —wisdom you won’t find in a textbook. Here’s what we’re seeing right now on the ground.
Buyer’s Market vs Seller’s Market
Let’s start with a quick refresher: a buyer’s market occurs when there are more properties for sale than there are buyers. In contrast, a seller’s market happens when demand outweighs supply. It’s safe to say we’ve been in a seller’s market for a long time. However, based on current signals, we’re now standing at the edge of a market shift.
We’re about to enter a buyer’s market and this is precisely where wealth is built. This is where generational wealth begins. You might be thinking, “Peter, that sounds great, but those are just words.” I agree. Words talk, but numbers scream.
So let’s break it down:
- Why I believe we’re entering a buyer’s market
- How you can successfully navigate and capitalize on it
Current Market Analysis
First and foremost, real estate moves in predictable cycles. These fluctuations aren’t new—I’ve been through several in my 25+ years in the business. While we’ve been in a seller’s market for several years, it’s only a matter of time before it changes. In fact, there are signals that it’s already happening.
Interest Rates and Refinancing Pressure
One major pressure point is interest rates. They’ve remained high for quite some time now. And when interest rates climb, they create a ripple effect across the multifamily sector. Many property owners took out loans at 3–4%. Today, they’re facing rates of 6–8%. As a result, when those loans come due, they’re stuck. They either need to sell or refinance—but refinancing isn’t feasible at today’s rates.
Rising Costs
Additionally, expenses are rising across the board:
- Insurance premiums
- Property taxes
- General operational costs
As these expenses increase, net operating income (NOI) declines which directly affects cash flow and property values. And as you know, when the NOI goes down, so does cash flow and property value. That’s a red flag.
Indicators of a Market Shift
To add to that, here are three clear indicators that back up what we’re seeing:
- More distressed sellers are entering the market.
- Widespread price reductions —Prices are being cut in nearly every region, from bustling cities like Austin, Texas to small-town markets on the East Coast.
- Longer days on market— Properties aren’t selling as fast. What used to sell in 35 days is now taking 70 to 90 days to close.
This shift in leverage, from sellers to buyers, is happening. And it’s especially noticeable in B and C-class multifamily properties in secondary and tertiary markets. We see these trends every day as we review deal after deal with our students. So yes—it’s happening. The real question is: Are you ready for it?
How to Succeed in a Buyer’s Market
Let’s walk through five strategies you can use to make the most of this window of opportunity:
1. Target Motivated Sellers
To start, focus on finding motivated sellers. For example, if a listing has been on the market for more than 60 days, that’s a sign of urgency and the seller is likely motivated. In our mentorship program, we go one step further and teach our students how to go directly to owners—so they can have real face-to-face conversations and uncover personal, financial, or property-related motivations. That insight is often the key to securing a great deal, especially when creative financing is needed.
2. Follow the Debt
Next, keep your eye on the debt landscape. Many commercial and multifamily loans are ballooning—meaning they’re coming due. And if property owners can’t meet the bank’s terms due to reduced NOI and higher rates, they’ll be forced to sell.
We even created a video called Massive $1.5 Trillion Banking Crisis about the looming debt crisis—it’s happening right now, and it’s creating massive buying opportunities.
3. Prioritize Cash Flow Over Appreciation
In a buyer’s market, property values may stagnate or dip slightly. But don’t let that discourage you. Instead, shift your focus to cash flow. If you do that well, appreciation will come in the long term. In a buyer’s market you need to stay calm and disciplined and long-term appreciation will follow. So, buy for cash flow today, not speculation tomorrow.
4. Stay Patient, Be Ready, and Think Long-Term
Here’s a critical mindset shift: your best deals might not be the flashiest, they’ll often come from long-term vision and timing. Some of our students’ most profitable deals were acquired during market lulls. They stayed disciplined, locked in long-term assets, and rode the wave to long-term prosperity.
What does discipline mean?
- Be patient
- Be selective
- Focus on stable markets
- Look for strong employment drivers
And most importantly, think long-term because in commercial real estate, the biggest wins often come from the long game.
5. Get Educated—and Move Fast
Finally, it’s time to sharpen your skills. Whether it’s through mentorship with our team or by enrolling in one of our free educational courses—get informed, and act quickly. Why? When the market transitions, good deals won’t sit on the market for long. And if you’re not ready, you’ll miss out.
Every Successful Commercial Real Estate Investor Has a Mentor
The multifamily market is shifting—and with that shift comes an opportunity. With the right approach and guidance, you can set yourself up for success. Get your mentor here: Commercial Property Advisors Protege Program
If you have any comments or questions, text PETER to 833-942-4516.
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