Bloomberg Businessweek Corporate Landlords Find Themselves in Trump's Crosshairs
Jan 13, 2026
Corporate landlords, once seen as housing villains, face a new challenge from President Trump, who aims to curb their home-buying power. Stephen Scherr from Pretium discusses the company's unexpected reaction and stresses the importance of housing affordability. He shares innovative rent-to-own strategies and highlights the need for collaboration with builders and policymakers. Scherr also argues against sidelining private capital, warning it would exacerbate the housing crisis. The conversation reveals the evolving landscape of rental markets amid political pressures.
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Affordability Is A Supply-Demand Problem
- Stephen Scherr says affordability is fundamentally a supply-demand problem driven by a shortage of 3–4 million homes.
- He frames private capital as a ready partner to help increase supply and improve affordability.
Use Rent-To-Own To Build Ownership Pathways
- Use rent-to-own and escrowed savings to help renters build down payments and credit toward homeownership.
- Combine low-cost mortgage options and partnerships with builders to create affordable ownership pathways.
Renters Face Mortgage Eligibility Barriers
- Scherr notes 90% of Pretium renters aren't currently mortgage-eligible, highlighting barriers beyond just supply.
- He argues broader reforms (mortgage rates, taxes, insurance) are needed alongside supply-side fixes.