Real estate investors say they’ll expand portfolios, make home improvements in 2025

A majority of U.S. real estate investors are planning to grow their portfolios and invest significantly in property improvements in 2025, according to a new survey from property management software provider RentRedi.

The findings indicate strong confidence in the rental housing market, with landlords prioritizing long-term growth and profitability despite economic and regulatory challenges.

he survey, conducted during a two-week period in November 2024, found that 59% of U.S. landlords plan to acquire new properties this year.

Larger landlords — those managing 20 or more rental units — appear to be the most aggressive, with 73% planning to expand. Medium-sized landlords (five to 19 units) follow behind at 69%, while 63% of small landlords (one to four units) intend to make more purchases.

While growth plans are widespread, regional differences exist. Landlords in the Midwest and South lead the trend of expansion plans at 69% each, followed by those in the Northeast at 68%. But the West lags behind, with only 52% of landlords there planning to buy property this year.

Ryan Barone, RentRedi’s co-founder and CEO, said that landlords are increasingly seeking efficiency through technology.

“Removing operational barriers and time constraints are where RentRedi can be most impactful in helping landlords reach their growth goals in 2025,” Barone said in the report. “Using our platform to streamline processes from listings and tenant screening to rent collection and maintenance coordination allows landlords to work efficiently and scale quickly.”

Investing in property improvements

Beyond acquisitions, landlords are prioritizing renovations, with 52% of investors budgeting at least $5,000 per unit for improvements in 2025. Notably, 27% plan to spend at least $20,000 per property to enhance their assets.

Large landlords, naturally, plan to be the biggest spenders, with 37% allocating $20,000 or more per unit, compared to 20% of small landlords.

Regional investment trends also vary. Landlords in the Northeast are the most committed to renovations, with 60% planning to spend $5,000-plus per property. Those in the South are taking a more conservative approach, with 52% of landlords budgeting less than $5,000 per unit.

Income growth and challenges

The survey highlights that income generation remains the top priority for landlords in 2025, with 47% of respondents citing it as their main goal. Another 33% prioritize long-term investments, while 19% see real estate as a path to financial freedom.

Notably, only 1% of landlords are focused on short-term property value increases, reinforcing the view that real estate remains a long-term wealth-building strategy.

Despite expansion and renovation plans, landlords face notable obstacles. Time commitment is the top barrier, cited by 31% of respondents.

Rising maintenance costs, property taxes and insurance expenses are also pressing concerns. Additionally, more stringent laws and regulations continue to shape landlord decision-making across all regions and portfolio sizes.