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Trump Order Targets Wall Street Home Buys, Leaves Build-to-Rent Largely Untouched

Analysts say the move will have limited effect on for-sale inventory because large investors own a small share of single-family homes.

Overview

  • President Trump’s executive order directs FHFA, HUD, Treasury and other agencies to issue guidance within 60 days to stop federal approval, insurance, guarantees or securitization that facilitate institutional purchases of single-family homes.
  • The order instructs the Justice Department and FTC to review large investor acquisitions for potential anti-competitive practices and requires HUD to collect ownership disclosures in federal housing programs.
  • Purpose-built build-to-rent communities are exempt, and investors can still use all-cash or non-agency financing, positioning major BTR players to continue expanding.
  • Housing economists note institutional owners hold roughly 1%–3% of single-family homes nationally, suggesting only modest inventory effects overall with any changes most likely in select Sun Belt metros.
  • Industry voices warn reduced investment could slow construction and lift rents for families who cannot qualify for mortgages, urging policymakers to prioritize expanding housing supply.