Last week, Continental Properties team members attended the National Multifamily Housing Council's (NMHC) 2025 Annual Meeting in Las Vegas, a premier gathering of industry leaders, investors, and innovators dedicated to solving the challenges in meeting the country’s housing needs. The event provided opportunities for networking and high-level discussions on the issues affecting the real estate industry, the nationwide need for housing, and emerging trends and innovations.
Key topics at this year’s conference included strategies for expanding workforce housing opportunities in an evolving market, the growing role of artificial intelligence (AI) and data in housing finance and operations, regulatory matters impacting rental housing creation and operation, and advancements in real estate technology.
The event featured opening remarks from NMHC President Sharon Wilson Géno and Jim Schloemer, Co-Founder & CEO of Continental Properties, who also serves as Chair of NMHC. Later, Jim led a Fireside Chat with Henry M. Paulson, Jr., U.S. Treasury Secretary during the George W. Bush Administration and Founder and Chairman of the Paulson Institute, where they explored macroeconomic issues impacting the future of the housing market, including environmental sustainability, federal deficits, technology, and geopolitics.
Market conditions and capital availability were major themes throughout the conference, with industry leaders weighing in on how the shifting economic landscape is shaping investment and development strategies. Henry Houden, Director of Acquisitions at Continental, shared insights on the opportunities available in today’s market:
"Speaking with acquisitions professionals across the country, one thing was clear: those who are well-capitalized today are in a prime position to act in a market full of opportunity. With future supply expected to decline, groups that can secure sites and begin construction over the next 12 to 24 months have the potential to outperform. Continental is well-positioned to execute and stay ahead of the market during this period.”
Garret Hrncir, Continental’s Chief Customer Experience Officer, participated in a panel titled 'Tech and Data: Transforming Housing Finance, Operations, and Resident Experience.' The session focused on how strategic use of technology and data analytics improves operational efficiency, boosts property valuations, and enhances resident satisfaction.
“At Continental, we believe that data-driven insights are the key to revolutionizing the resident experience and shaping the future of rental housing,” Garrett explained. “By leveraging technology, we’re not only enhancing operations but also creating communities that empower residents, remove friction, and improve quality of life. It’s not just about building homes—it’s about building better living experiences that truly matter.”
Kimberly Grimm, Continental’s Chief Development & Construction Officer, served as a judge in the 14th annual “NMHC Emerging Leaders Young Guns Pitch to Senior Executives”. This dynamic session showcased three young leaders as they pitched opportunities to a mock "investment committee" of senior executives.
Reflecting on her experience, Kimberly shared, “I was personally honored to be a judge for the Young Guns session. I truly believe in paying it forward and helping young real estate professionals learn and grow in our industry. The event reinforced the importance of fresh ideas and innovative thinking, and it was exciting to see the next generation step forward.”
Ed Madell, Continental’s Chief Financial Officer, participated in the panel “Navigating Today’s Capital Landscape: Strategies for Multifamily Development Financing”, which explored the challenges of securing capital amid high costs and cautious private markets. Panelists discussed strategies for managing rising construction costs, adapting to fluctuating interest rates, and building resilient capital structures. The conversation offered valuable insights into how top firms are balancing risk with opportunity and aligning financing strategies with market conditions to drive successful project delivery.
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The 2025 NMHC Annual Meeting provided a vital platform for industry leaders to share insights and engage in meaningful discussions on the future of rental housing. Continental remains at the forefront of these conversations, demonstrating its commitment to leadership and forward-thinking solutions. As the company looks ahead, it continues to drive progress through collaboration and a steadfast focus on enhancing the resident experience.
