LeaseLock Chief Economist Greg Willett Featured on the Jake & Gino Podcast

Greg Willett, Chief Economist at LeaseLock, was recently featured on the Jake & Gino podcast, joining host Gino Barbaro for a wide-ranging conversation on multifamily market cycles, rent growth, supply dynamics, and the future of resident-centric operations.

With decades of experience in housing economics and market research, Greg shared data-driven insights on how owners and operators can navigate today’s evolving rental landscape and why rethinking the traditional security deposit is becoming essential across market cycles.

A Data-Driven Look at Today’s Multifamily Market

During the episode, Greg breaks down the major forces shaping rental housing today, including the post-COVID reset, the surge in new apartment supply, and what operators should expect as construction volumes begin to taper.

He explains how recent volatility interrupted traditional market cycles and why understanding those cycles is critical for long-term portfolio performance. From bullish Sun Belt markets to supply-heavy metros facing short-term pressure, Greg provides context that helps investors separate noise from structural trends.

The Shift to Resident-Centricity in Multifamily Housing

One of the central themes of the conversation is the industry’s shift toward resident-centricity. Greg describes how multifamily has evolved from a purely transactional “show me the money” model to one that prioritizes service, experience, and retention.

In an environment with higher supply and more choice for renters, operators who focus on the resident experience are better positioned to protect occupancy, reduce friction, and manage risk more effectively.

Dallas and the National Supply Conversation

Greg also dives into why Dallas continues to lead the country in apartment construction. He explains how job growth, economic diversity, and fewer regulatory barriers make the region uniquely positioned for sustained development compared to coastal markets.

This segment provides valuable insight for investors evaluating geographic risk, lease-up timelines, and the downstream impact of new supply on rent growth.

Why Greg Joined LeaseLock

The conversation also explores Greg’s decision to join LeaseLock and how his research background connects to the company’s mission. Greg outlines how LeaseLock helps owners and operators rethink security deposits through a modern lease insurance model that supports both asset performance and resident financial health.

Key Topics Covered in the Episode

Listeners will hear Greg’s perspective on:

  • Rent growth trends and supply normalization

  • Long-term renter household formation and affordability

  • Immigration and housing demand

  • AI’s growing role in multifamily operations

  • The rent control debate and why economists largely agree on its outcomes

  • Security deposits versus modern deposit alternatives

  • Fraud, delinquency, and resident financial health

Why This Episode Matters for Owners and Operators

Greg’s appearance reinforces why he is one of the most respected voices in rental housing economics today. The episode offers practical insight for multifamily owners, operators, and investors looking to understand where the market is headed and how operational decisions, including deposit strategy, can impact performance across cycles.

As the industry continues to adapt to shifting supply, renter expectations, and economic uncertainty, conversations like this help bring clarity to complex market signals.

By removing friction at move-in and reducing exposure to delinquency and bad debt, LeaseLock’s approach aligns with the broader shift toward smarter, more resilient multifamily operations.