Newmark Facilitates Historic Sale of National Student Housing Portfolio of Nearly 1,250 Units
Newmark Facilitates Historic Sale of National Student Housing Portfolio
In an impressive move within the commercial real estate sector, Newmark Group, Inc. has announced the successful sale of a landmark student housing portfolio, consisting of five properties across four states, totalling 1,248 units and 3,693 beds. This transaction, noted as the largest sale of student housing in the United States for the year to date, underscores Newmark’s position as a leader in the market, demonstrating the growing demand for high-quality residential options near major academic institutions.
The properties involved in this transaction are strategically located in proximity to renowned universities such as the University of Florida, Texas State University, Indiana University, North Carolina State University, and The University of Texas at Austin, all of which have substantial student populations averaging over 47,000 enrollees. Notably, these accommodations are situated just under a mile from campuses, designed with various amenities—including swimming pools, outdoor grilling stations, fitness centers, and study rooms—to cater to the modern student lifestyle.
Ryan Lang, Executive Vice Chairman and Head of Student Housing at Newmark, expressed excitement about the portfolio's successful transaction. He remarked, “This record portfolio transaction reinforces the burgeoning demand for premium student housing assets adjacent to prestigious universities.” The increasing enrollment figures and expanding campuses drive investors toward well-situated, high-quality student housing options.
Not only does this portfolio sale highlight the strong demand in the student housing market, but it also aligns with Newmark's continuous momentum in this sector. Within the first quarter alone of 2025, the company has executed student housing sales and financing transactions exceeding $1 billion, following a robust fourth quarter of 2024 that saw over $1.5 billion in transactions. This performance signals investor confidence and a growing tendency to target fast-expanding university submarkets across the nation.
Supporting this significant milestone were key members of the Newmark team including Managing Director Jack Brett and Director Ben Harkrider, who worked closely with licensed advisors to represent the seller, a joint venture formed by Nuveen and The Preiss Company. Additionally, Newmark Co-Head of Global Debt & Structured Finance, Jordan Roeschlaub, along with notable executives such as Vice Chairman Chris Kramer and Executive Managing Director Ben Roelke, contributed critical support to the transaction's success.
Newmark's extensive experience and expertise in the commercial real estate landscape place it at the forefront of navigating intricate transactions successfully. The company offers a comprehensive suite of tailored services that span the entire property life cycle, ultimately aligning private and institutional investors with lucrative opportunities within the real estate market.
As of December 31, 2024, Newmark reported revenues exceeding $2.7 billion, operating approximately 170 offices with a workforce of over 8,000 professionals globally. The growing influence and capability of Newmark in real estate advisory services illustrate its commitment to facilitating impactful real estate decisions.
This transaction is not just a metric of financial success; it signifies the ever-evolving requirements of student housing that align with modern educational frameworks and lifestyle needs. The demand for premium living spaces that complement the rigors of student life continues to grow, a trend that both Newmark and investors are keenly aware of as they look toward future opportunities in the realm of student housing.