The possibility to provide tenants with greater living space at more affordable costs than they can get downtown without the need to qualify for a mortgage has sparked a surge in interest in single-family rentals and suburban neighborhoods. People of all ages are on the lookout for rentals that can fit their changing requirements and preferences, and they may stay in the rental market for longer than prior generations. Even though the surge in interest has created some competition between small-business property managers and larger investment and management firms, the ability of smaller companies to provide personalized customer service will continue to set them apart from larger competitors. ########## Effect #1: Increased Pandemic-Driven Interest in Large, Low-Cost Rentals ########## According to property managers, renters are showing an increased interest in apartments with more interior and outdoor space at more affordable prices. Though renters’ interest in single-family homes and suburban neighborhoods had begun to rise before the pandemic, demand for these properties has exploded in the last 18 months, especially as remote work has allowed some residents to relocate further from city centers.