Q&A with Matt Chantry, Asset Manager

Matt Chantry, CAIA, joined Guardian in 2013 as a Seattle-based Asset Manager. With significant experience in financial analysis, asset management, affordable housing, real estate financing, and client relations, Matt brings broad experience to the Guardian team. Prior to joining Guardian, Matt was an Asset Manager for HomeStreet Capital managing a portfolio of 76 loans totaling $222 million. He holds a Master of Real Estate Development degree from the University of Utah and a Bachelor of Science degree from Brigham Young University. Matt also holds a Graduate certificate in City and Metropolitan Planning from the University of Utah, a Multifamily Property Inspection Certification, and holds a real estate broker's license in the state of Washington.

Q: What excites you the most about the current multifamily real estate trends? Any concerns?

A: I see a big shift with the current renter demographics. Growing numbers of people want to rent rather than own, creating huge opportunity for the multifamily sector. We’re especially seeing an increase in first time renters. This group is comfortable living in smaller, urban spaces that feature easy access to public transportation and walkable amenities. Additionally, baby boomers are shifting their preferences to the rental market; they want to downsize and take advantage of the flexibility that renting affords. Investors and developers are also happy to see capital markets loosening up, which means more financing opportunity. At the same time, I’m concerned about regulatory budget cuts and how they are going to affect Rural Development and HUD projects. The demand for affordable housing continues to rise, and we need these housing programs to incentivize future developments and maintain fair and affordable housing.

 

Q: What should property owners be focused on this year?

A: Owners should be focused on maintaining their competitive edge. With development activity on the rise, we’ll see a lot of new product entering the market over the next few years. Properties will maintain maximum rents by monitoring their competition, analyzing market trends, understanding renter demographics, and maintaining or updating the physical conditions of the property.

Q: What initially got you interested in asset management?

 

Combine a passion for real estate with a problem-solving nature, and here I am! Asset management and the real estate industry as a whole is incredibly dynamic with many unique facets. My first job was in development and acquisition, where I discovered I have a keen awareness of the financial aspects of an asset and determining areas of strength and improvement.  My reward comes when I can successfully build and implement strategies to boost performance. At the end of the day, it’s all about finding a solution to a problem.

Have a question for Matt? Send him an email at matthew.chantry@gres.com. You can learn more about Guardian's Development team at www.gres.com.