Record Supply Takes Its Toll in Detroit

Posted on August 6, 2018

The high number of multifamily units completed in 2017 moderated rent growth, which nevertheless continues to outpace the national average.

Detroit is moving forward with its transformation into a modern hub for mobility businesses and tech startups, despite a general slowdown in the process. Transaction volume decreased, as investors continue to look for Class B and C properties commanding higher returns. The high number of units completed in 2017 dampened demand. However, although rent growth moderated, it managed to stay above the national average.

Detroit rent evolution, click to enlarge

The metro’s largest employment sector—professional and business services—continued to add jobs (3,100), even though the largest gains were in leisure and hospitality (8,400). Some of the metro’s largest employers announced further expansions: Ford started work at its new Corktown campus, which is slated to house 2,500 employees; after months of speculation, the company confirmed it had purchased the iconic 500,000-square-foot Michigan Central Station to serve this very purpose.

Downtown Detroit remains the most dynamic area for development. Historic structures such as the Albert Kahn Building—formerly an office property—and Park Avenue Building will be converted to residential use, which is expected to add roughly 300 apartments to the market. With no new supply to start the year and relatively steady demand, rent growth should remain fairly strong, finishing 2018 at around 3.0 percent.

Read the full Yardi Matrix report.