REALM Expands Portfolio with Strategic Acquisition of Housing Communities in Eastern North Carolina
REALM Expands Portfolio with Strategic Acquisition
In a significant move aimed at improving affordable housing options in Eastern North Carolina, REALM has partnered with Parker to acquire three manufactured housing communities. This strategic acquisition signals the company's commitment to address housing challenges that families face in today's economic climate. The importance of accessible housing has never been more evident, especially as the demand for affordable living solutions continues to grow.
The acquisition encompasses properties in Dudley, Havelock, and surrounding areas, each offering a cost-effective path to homeownership through manufactured housing. REALM’s CEO, Travis King, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, emphasizing the community's growth potential and the vital role affordable housing plays in the region.
Housing Affordability in Focus
Housing affordability is an ongoing challenge, and this acquisition underscores REALM's dedication to providing viable housing options for families. As many individuals struggle to find reasonably priced homes in the traditional market, manufactured housing emerges as a crucial alternative, allowing more families access to homeownership. With Eastern North Carolina's population consistently increasing for over five years, the housing demand remains robust.
The Growth Potential of Manufactured Housing
The manufactured housing sector is still considered underrepresented, with a significant majority—around 80%—of assets owned by non-institutional players. This landscape creates a unique opportunity for REALM, which leverages its local relationships and expertise to identify and secure off-market acquisitions. By enhancing property management and executing infrastructure upgrades, REALM aims to unlock value and transition park-owned homes into resident-owned properties, providing immediate value-add opportunities post-acquisition.
Strategic Investments and Future Plans
REALM's strategy entails deploying $50 million in equity capital to consolidate a portfolio of over one thousand pads across Eastern North Carolina and surrounding regions within the next one to three years. The targeted assets are expected to yield attractive returns, with additional upside potential linked to value additions and increased institutional interest at the time of exit.
The company plans to enhance property standards through effective infrastructural improvements and amenities upgrades. This approach aims to foster long-term stability by increasing the ratio of resident-owned homes, thus contributing to community cohesion and resident satisfaction.
Travis King remarked, "Our expanded scale allows REALM to continue delivering affordable housing while generating consistent returns for our investors. This area holds immense potential, and we are excited to extend our influence in the housing market throughout the Carolinas."
Conclusion
The acquisition of these manufactured housing communities not only positions REALM as a leader in addressing affordable housing needs but also highlights the opportunities within the sector. As housing markets remain strained by zoning laws and high development costs, the growth of manufactured housing emerges as a critical solution for families facing home ownership challenges. With increased demand fueled by population growth, military presence, and a diverse employment landscape, REALM's initiative in Eastern North Carolina marks a proactive step toward enhancing housing affordability in the region.
With over $6 billion in real estate transaction experience, REALM stands out by combining the capital and expertise of ultra-high-net-worth individuals and organizations to create exceptional real estate investments. This acquisition represents a pivotal moment for REALM and a hopeful future for families seeking affordable housing solutions in the ever-evolving landscape of real estate.