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IMN SFR East 2025 Conference: 5 Key Takeaways from Lima One

On May 19-21, the 2025 IMN Single Family Rental Conference East brought together over 1,500 of the top industry professionals in Miami to discuss what’s next in the world of SFR investing. From market volatility to the evolution of tech and AI, the event offered a front row seat to the trends shaping the current real estate landscape.  

As a trusted private lender dedicated to helping real estate investors scale with confidence, Lima One Capital was honored to be a part of the conversation and connect with operators, developers, partners, homebuilders, and more to better understand where the market is heading and how we can continue to deliver valuable financing solutions that meet the moment.  

Below, we are sharing 5 key takeaways from the 2025 IMN SFR conference and what they mean for investors who are looking to scale their real estate portfolios in today's climate.

1. Rental Demand Remains Rock Solid

It’s no surprise that economic factors were a big talking point of the 2025 IMN SFR East Conference. With homeownership increasingly out of reach, more families are turning to single-family rentals. Demand is up, occupancy is high, and SFR continues to perform — even when the economy doesn’t. This asset class has proven its strength time and again, making it a reliable hedge in today’s rate environment.

2. Lending is Holding Strong - and Competitive

Despite market volatility, SFR financing has stayed surprisingly steady. Lending rates remain close to year-long averages, and more capital is chasing fewer deals. That’s compressing spreads and creating favorable conditions for borrowers who move fast and execute well.

3. Build-to-Rent is Scaling Fast

Build-to-Rent is no longer a niche play — it’s a leading strategy for meeting demand. Purpose-built rental communities are providing high-quality, amenitized homes in the right locations for growing families. Investors are leaning in, and the model is proving scalable, sustainable, and smart.

4. Tech and AI Are Driving Smarter Operations

AI and data analytics are powering the next evolution in SFR operations. From underwriting to rent pricing to tenant screening, those who invest in tech are gaining an edge. It all comes down to infrastructure — because you can’t improve what you can’t measure.

5. Efficiency Isn't Optional - It's the Advantage

Margins are tightening. Insurance, taxes, and maintenance costs are climbing. Operators focused on reducing turnover, streamlining maintenance, and modernizing older properties are not just surviving — they’re adding value and preserving communities. Operational discipline is now a key driver of returns.

Putting IMN SFR Conference Takeaways in Action

Lima One Capital empowers real estate investors by both staying informed and providing flexible financing solutions to meet the needs of investors and the industry. In a market defined by uncertainty, one thing remains clear: fundamentals still win. While volatility shakes others, private lenders like Lima One Capital prove time and time again, we can adapt, pivot, and perform. Demand is real. Opportunity is out there. And those who stay grounded in fundamentals will keep leading the way.

Contact Lima One Capital today for more information on our investment property loan programs and financing solutions to stay ahead.