April 25, 2026
Wisconsin housing experts are urging policymakers to view build-to-rent (BTR) housing as part of the solution to the nation's housing shortage, as debate continues around the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act. The proposed federal legislation would require companies owning 350 or more single-family rentals or duplexes to sell those homes within seven years, a measure supporters say would expand homeownership opportunities. Critics, however, argue the restriction could limit investment in one of the fastest-growing sources of new housing supply and potentially slow new development.
Industry leaders and housing experts say BTR communities help expand housing options, particularly in markets facing affordability pressures, while also creating new inventory. Rather than restricting investor participation, developers are calling for regulatory reform, faster permitting, and streamlined approvals to support housing production. Some also point to provisions in the bill that incentivize pre-approved development plans as a constructive step toward addressing supply challenges.
Source: Urban Milwaukee
