Key takeaways from the Interface Student Housing Conference

After attending the Interface Student Housing Conference in Austin this April, my Walker & Dunlop associates and I walked away feeling more energized than ever about the strength and stability of the student housing sector. With high attendance and a forward-looking tone throughout the event, there were clear signals that this asset class continues to gain momentum, even in the face of broader economic uncertainty.

Confidence is rising—and so is transaction volume

One of the most noticeable trends compared to past years is the increase in transaction activity. 2024 saw a rebound from the market slowdown of 2023, and early signs in 2025 point to even more movement. For those of us working in valuations and investment strategy, an increase in deal flow is critical. It gives us the comparable data we need to assess opportunities with greater confidence and precision.

Pre-leasing and rent growth remain solid

We’re deep into the pre-leasing cycle for Fall 2025, and many properties are already 50–70 percent leased. This level of leasing velocity, coupled with steady rent growth, is a clear indicator that demand remains strong. Student housing continues to benefit from predictable occupancy patterns, which makes it a uniquely stable investment, even as other asset classes experience more volatility.

Investors are paying close attention to supply and enrollment trends

Investor interest in the sector continues to grow, partly thanks to the persistent supply/demand imbalance across many key markets. In many university-adjacent areas, there simply isn’t enough purpose-built student housing to meet enrollment trends. That long-term imbalance creates a favorable outlook for owners and developers targeting pedestrian assets, properties within walking distance to campus, which remain in high demand.

The fundamentals are holding steady

At Apprise, we constantly track the data to identify shifts in valuation, cap rates, and pricing. Across most markets, we’ve seen relatively stable cap rates and price per unit growth, reinforcing the sector’s fundamental health. The predictability of this asset class continues to make it such a compelling play for investors.

Looking ahead

Between the event panels, networking, and insights shared among peers, Interface 2025 affirmed that student housing is here to stay and positioned to lead. We’re seeing rising transaction activity, data-supported stability, and investor sentiment aligned with long-term fundamentals. I’m proud to be part of a team that’s helping clients navigate this landscape with confidence.

Ready to explore your next student housing opportunity? Connect with Walker & Dunlop experts and explore our latest Student Housing Outlook to see what’s ahead for the sector.