Christopher Todd Communities Featured on CBS News

Innovating Affordable Housing Solutions

Christopher Todd Communities has been featured in CBS News! Our President, Brent Long, was interviewed during the special, highlighting our innovative built-to-rent communities that are addressing the urgent need for affordable housing as costs continue to rise across the country. When asked if the concept goes against a more traditional view of buying a home to achieve the American Dream, Long said, “I don’t think it takes it away. It solves some issues that are out there in terms of affordability, availability.

Built-to-rent communities a growing U.S. trend amid sky-high housing costs

Richard Belote, a Texas resident, underscores this necessity, describing his rented home, located 90 minutes from Houston, as a “good stepping stone” amid soaring interest rates. Like many, he and his fiancée feel priced out of the housing market, hoping for more favorable conditions in the future.

A recent CNN poll indicates that 86% of renters believe they can’t afford to buy a home, and 54% feel it’s unlikely they ever will. Yet, the desire for homeownership remains strong, with 81% expressing the wish to own a residence someday.

Jill Schlesinger, CBS News business analyst, notes that house prices have surged by over 40% in just four years. “Many people want to be in homes but can’t afford it,” she states, underscoring the urgency of our mission.

Originating during the Great Recession in Phoenix, built-to-rent communities are now spreading across the Sunbelt, including cities like Atlanta and Dallas. Brent Long emphasizes that our renters come from diverse backgrounds, spanning from Gen Z to Baby Boomers.

As Long explains, “It’s really renters by choice and renters by need,” indicating that these communities are reshaping the traditional view of homeownership. For renters like Cassie Wilson in Phoenix, the arrangement provides the perfect balance of amenities without the responsibilities of homeownership.

While built-to-rent communities represented only 7.9% of new residential construction last year, Arizona housing advocates welcome these developments as part of the solution to the housing shortage.

In Texas, Richard Belote enjoys his backyard with his dogs, cherishing his home as he awaits a shift in the housing market.

Christopher Todd Communities is proud to be part of the conversation, paving the way for more affordable living options.

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Christopher Todd

Christopher Todd Communities creates neighborhoods and communities for people to enjoy, share, and live. Here, you’ll find luxury, single-story, rental homes in gated, planned communities that are professionally managed. These come complete with amenities designed for socializing, energizing, for peace of mind, and even for pets.