As featured in “Multifamily Executive”
Multifamily Executive Content Studio, 22 September, 2026
RR Living was recently featured in Multifamily Executive for its perspective on how multifamily owners and operators can strategically approach property improvements while balancing resident expectations, retention, and long-term financial performance. Melanie French, Chief Executive Officer of RR Living, shared insight into the operational considerations that can help existing communities remain competitive as new multifamily supply continues to enter the market.
Read more below for additional insights into RR Living’s approach to resident experience, property operations, and strategic improvements across multifamily communities.
As newer properties introduce updated amenities and technology, existing communities must determine which investments will provide the greatest value to residents while supporting property performance. French emphasized that high-speed internet has become an essential component of the modern resident experience, describing reliable connectivity as “a norm and a requirement” as households increasingly rely on connected technology.
Beyond visible upgrades, French highlighted the importance of understanding a property’s underlying infrastructure before making investment decisions. For older communities, comprehensive due diligence can help operators anticipate future maintenance needs and appropriately plan capital improvements.
“If you’re buying a community that’s 15 or 20 years old, the work you do during the due diligence is critical. You should walk every single unit. You want to be prepared to change plenty of air conditioners or water heaters, because you’re going to replace more than you expected,” French said.
French also emphasized that successful property management extends beyond attracting new residents. Retention can have a meaningful impact on financial performance, particularly when accounting for turnover expenses, vacancy, utilities, and other costs associated with preparing a unit for a new resident. She estimated that the total impact of a resident moving out can range between $5,000 and $8,000.
For RR Living, creating a positive resident experience ultimately comes down to understanding resident needs, maintaining communities effectively, and building long-term trust.
“If you build trust with your residents, and they have trust that you’re going to take care of their needs, that is step No. 1 to success for retention, for financials, for investors, everything,” French said.
As multifamily operators navigate an increasingly competitive environment, RR Living continues to emphasize thoughtful property management, resident-focused improvements, and disciplined operations as important components of long-term community performance.
We appreciate and thank Multifamily Executive for featuring Melanie French and RR Living and sharing insight into the strategies multifamily operators can use to strengthen resident satisfaction, retention, and property performance. To read the full article, click here.
