Corvettes and Rents:
What in the world would the cost of a new Corvette have in common with Boise rents? Please bear with me with my comparison. In Boise, you can buy a 2019 Corvette ZR1 for $135,895. It would be incorrect to say, that cars in Boise cost $135K. It would be wrong to say the average new Corvette in Boise is about $135K, because you can buy a 2019 Corvette Stringray for about $60,000. And there are a lot more Corvette Stingrays sold than ZR1’s. Even within the Stingray model, you have various trims and options to choose from that cause pricing differences.
Within the last week, there have been several news reports about Boise’s sky rocketing rents. One such story referenced a one-bedroom apartment, with approximately 650 square feet renting in the $1,300’s. Unfortunately, some investors read this and now expect higher rents on their one-bedroom units. Like the Corvette, there are a lot of factors that go into pricing, and $1,300 is certainly not the Boise average.
The rent prices here in the Treasure Valley are indeed rising, but there is a lot that goes into determining those numbers. When we set rents here at First Rate property Management, we don’t just pick a number out of a hat. A lot of research and time goes into determining that RENT amount. We look at the following:
- Location
- Age
- Square Footage
- Amenities
- Demand
- Finishes
The below graph is the 4th quarter vacancy and rent results posted by The SW Idaho Chapter of the National Association or Residential Managers. According to the Chapter, the average rent for one-bedroom multi-family units was $738. I agree, that sounds low, and certainly not what we’re seeing within our own portfolio. First, the purpose of the Chapter’s survey is to report vacancy and rental rate trends for buildings with 2-15 units. So, this survey excludes the large and high-end downtown apartments with generous amenities. If you have a larger complex or a downtown apartment, there are other sources that we refer to on setting a rent price, which are generally much higher.
Currently FRPM’s one-bedrooms range from $750 to $925 per month. In fact, if you are looking for a one-bedroom apartment, we actually have a couple that are in a great location too. Click here. Boise is growing. Rents are increasing. And we’re seeing new product and markets open up, to include some down town and lavish apartments along with one or two Corvette ZR1s.
Arica Elordi, Leasing Team Member
First Rate Property Management, Inc.
Boise, Idaho
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