What you need to know about rental prices decreasing in Jacksonville.

Today, I’m here to discuss the decrease in rental prices in today’s market. I understand that it may confuse many people, but this dip is indeed happening to some extent. Many people find this counterintuitive, especially when home prices and interest rates are high. However, we are witnessing a slight adjustment, and I’m here to dive into why this is. 

In my 12 years of experience in this business, I have never witnessed such a large number of vacant rental properties on the market. At one point, there were nearly 3,000 single-family homes and townhomes available for rent. This surplus can be attributed to hedge funds that took advantage of low borrowing costs to invest their cash and generate profits. 

“Hedge funds and large companies have changed our rental market.”

Due to the abundance of rental properties, other individuals are starting to lower their rental prices to avoid extended vacancies. For example, if someone owns two properties but lacks the financial resources of a hedge fund to keep the properties on the market for several months, they will have to adjust their prices to attract tenants. Hedge funds and large property owners purchased their properties with specific rental price projections in mind. If they can achieve those projected prices, it makes financial sense for them.

Over the past few months, during lease renewals, people have been discussing rent adjustments with tenants. Some landlords are considering lowering rents or avoiding rent increases altogether. This is a consequence of the real estate market fluctuations during the COVID-19 pandemic when people were able to purchase houses at favorable financing rates, although not necessarily at low market values.

It is important to note that the rental process is taking longer because there are numerous options available, especially in certain areas of town. If you have questions about this topic or anything else, please call or email me. I am always willing to help!