The MMI is based on a quarterly, nationwide survey of multifamily builders and property owners who are asked a series of questions about current market conditions and expectations for the next six months. Survey answers are assigned numerical values to calculate two separate indexes, one tracking demand and the other tracking supply. The scale is from 1 to 100, with a rating of 50 generally indicating that the number of positive responses is about the same as the number of negative responses.

Builders reported fewer empty apartments available for rent. Prospective renters also are calling more frequently - the current index value for this key indicator of rental demand stood at 56.2 in the first quarter, which is 7 points higher than at the same time last year. All types of apartments reported more demand this quarter, but luxury (class A) apartments have rebounded most strongly - that index value of 46.5 represents a nearly 17-point improvement in reported demand over last year.

Looking forward, multifamily builders expressed optimism regarding the next six months, with the index tracking expected market conditions for market-rate apartments rising 16 points over this time last year to an index number of 57.1. The low-income (subsidized) apartment producers also report optimism, with a 51.8 index score, up from 50 last year. And the condo market's 55.3 index number reflects a 7-point improvement over a year ago.

"The evolving upswing in the job creation numbers bodes well for the multifamily sector," noted David Seiders, NAHB chief economist. "Since job creation often leads to new household formation - and new households often tend to be renters or first-time condo buyers - it looks like there are better days ahead for the multifamily segment of the housing market."

Publication date: 05/24/2004