Have you ever heard the term Build-to-Rent (BTR) and wondered what it means?
If not—you’re not alone. On a recent episode of Bartelle’s Money Talk, we had the privilege of sitting down with Andy McMullen, real estate investor, CEO of Legacy Acquisitions, and a pioneer in the build-to-rent space. With over 25 years of experience in real estate, Andy walked us through this rising housing trend, its potential for investors, and how it’s reshaping neighborhoods and the American dream of homeownership.
If you’re a homeowner, a renter, or someone looking to invest in real estate—you need to know about this.
🏠 What Is Build-to-Rent?
Build-to-Rent (or BTR) refers to residential communities—primarily single-family homes—that are built specifically to be rented, not sold. Think of an entire neighborhood of newly constructed, modern homes with private yards, walking trails, and community amenities like clubhouses, dog parks, or playgrounds. Now imagine every home is available only for rent—and the entire community is professionally managed like an apartment complex.
Unlike traditional rental setups where scattered homes are individually owned, BTR communities are owned and managed by a single developer or company. The goal? Provide a rental experience that offers the feel and space of homeownership without the burdens of maintenance, property taxes, or long-term commitments.
💡 Why Build-to-Rent Is Growing So Fast
According to Andy, the BTR model really started to gain traction after 2008, when large investment groups began purchasing single-family homes in bulk. But as housing demand surged and affordability dropped, developers saw an opportunity to build entire neighborhoods specifically for renters.
And it’s working.
“We’re seeing a huge demographic shift. People still want beautiful homes, but they don’t always want the responsibility of owning them,” Andy explained.
Here’s why BTR is booming:
Home prices are rising faster than incomes.
Interest rates are high, making mortgages unaffordable for many.
Inventory is low, especially for entry-level homes.
Millennials and retirees alike want flexible, modern living without the hassle.
Cities and towns benefit from increased tax revenue and green space from new developments.
✅ Pros of Build-to-Rent (For Renters)
Andy broke down some of the biggest benefits for renters living in BTR communities:
1. No homeowner responsibilities
You don’t have to worry about property taxes, homeowners insurance, repairs, or HOA dues. Just enjoy the home.
2. Modern homes with upgraded tech
BTR communities often feature smart-home technology, energy efficiency, and modern design. Think remote-controlled thermostats, high-speed Wi-Fi, and move-in-ready interiors.
3. Community amenities
Residents enjoy dog parks, walking trails, green spaces, clubhouses, playgrounds, and more.
4. Privacy without apartment living
You get your own yard and walls—no neighbors stomping upstairs or blaring music through paper-thin walls.
5. Flexible, affordable lifestyle
You can live in a beautiful home without needing a massive down payment or committing to a 30-year mortgage.
🧓🏾 BTR Is Not Just for Young People
Surprisingly, Andy shared that empty nesters and retirees are moving into BTR communities in droves.
Why? Because they want:
Simplicity
No yardwork
A friendly community
Walkable trails and safe neighborhoods
Independence without isolation
Whether you're downsizing after the kids leave or waiting for the perfect time to buy again, BTR offers a sweet spot.
💼 Is Build-to-Rent a Good Investment?
Absolutely—and not just for the big hedge funds. Andy emphasized that individuals and small investors can participate too.
BTR developments offer:
Stable cash flow from long-term tenants
Scalability (entire communities under single management)
Higher tenant retention due to lifestyle perks
Increased demand in cities and suburbs across the country
With inflation, high mortgage rates, and low homeownership affordability, BTR is positioned to meet one of America's biggest needs: quality rental housing.
🔍 What About Local Homeowners?
Some people worry that BTR communities will negatively impact surrounding home values.
But Andy clarified:
“We’ve seen just the opposite. BTR neighborhoods usually raise the value of nearby homes because they bring in tax dollars, improve infrastructure, and attract families who care about their community.”
These homes are professionally maintained, the landscaping is managed, and tenants go through rigorous screening(e.g., 3x income-to-rent ratio, minimum credit scores, and background checks).
📉 But Isn’t Homeownership Better?
It depends.
If you value flexibility, minimal responsibility, and want to invest your money elsewhere (like a business, stocks, or even a BTR project), then renting can make more sense—especially in today’s market.
As Andy said:
“Today’s generation doesn’t measure wealth by a white picket fence. They want financial freedom, tech-forward homes, and time to live life—not spend weekends fixing leaky faucets.”
💸 Want to Invest in BTR?
You don’t need to be a millionaire or own land to get started.
Andy shared a few ways to partner with developers like Legacy Acquisitions:
1. Syndication (Group Investments)
You pool money with other investors to buy or develop a project. This could be as little as $25,000.
2. Private Lending
You become a lender (instead of an equity investor) and receive monthly returns—sometimes as high as 12–18% depending on the project.
3. Passive Ownership
You can own part of a BTR development without managing it, screening tenants, or doing maintenance.
Want to learn more? Reach out to Andy at LegacyAcquisitions.com or connect with him on LinkedIn.
🔐 Three Nuggets of Wisdom from Andy McMullen
To wrap up our conversation, we asked Andy to leave three big takeaways. Here’s what he shared:
1. Housing demand isn’t going away.
Prices may dip temporarily, but the long-term trend is clear—we need more homes, and people will pay to live in good communities.
2. Renting doesn’t mean losing.
The stigma around renting is disappearing. Families, retirees, and young professionals are choosing BTR for lifestyle and flexibility.
3. Ownership is changing.
From Netflix to Uber, we’re renting almost everything in life. Why not apply that to housing too—especially when it saves time and money?
👣 Final Thoughts: A New Path to Financial Freedom
Whether you're looking for your next investment opportunity or simply exploring smarter ways to live, Build-to-Rent is more than just a housing trend—it’s a mindset shift.
At Bartelle’s Money Talk, we believe that financial freedom is about stewardship, wisdom, and staying open to new opportunities.
BTR might not be for everyone. But for the right family or investor, it might just be the key to unlocking more time, peace, and wealth.
📞 Ready to Take the Next Step?
👉 Learn more about Andy McMullen and Legacy Acquisitions:
LegacyAcquisitions.com
🎧 Listen to the full episode of Bartels Money Talk wherever you get your podcasts.
📘 Want coaching on how to steward your money God's way?
📞 830-252-0320
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