Local investors strengthen communities amid growing housing demand

 Silver City, NM — November 5, 2025 — While corporate landlords often dominate housing headlines, a quieter force is shaping the rental market across New Mexico and the nation: small landlords. According to recent insights from the Silver City Regional Association of REALTORS®, individual investors—those owning fewer than 11 properties—now account for more than 90% of investor-owned homes nationwide.

Unlike large institutional owners, these small-scale landlords are typically **local residents—teachers, retirees, and small business owners—**who live near their rental properties and take a hands-on approach to management. Their personal investment in both property and community helps stabilize neighborhoods, provide flexible leasing options, and preserve housing diversity in areas often overlooked by large developers.

New Mexico's Rental Markets Show Strong Potential

The report highlights several southwestern New Mexico cities where small landlords are having a measurable impact and helping to meet growing demand:

·         Las Cruces: Provides cost-effective, retirement-oriented rental options in a favorable market, with approximately 200 available units and an average rent of $1,500.

·         Silver City: Only 19 rentals are currently available in Silver City, and rising rents make it an attractive option for investors focused on long-term growth.

·         Deming: With rents 66% below the national average and only four listings, this market is highly affordable and may appeal to investors.

This rental data, drawn from Zillow, suggests that New Mexico is becoming a hotspot for individual investors seeking to build equity while contributing to sustainable, community-based housing solutions.

Community-Centered Investment

"Small landlords play a vital role in housing access and neighborhood stability," said a spokesperson for the Silver City Regional Association of REALTORS®. "They're not just investing in property—they're investing in people and places. Their efforts help ensure that our local markets remain accessible, diverse, and responsive to community needs."

As rental demand continues to grow—particularly in smaller towns and rural regions—the influence of individual investors will remain a key factor in shaping housing outcomes across the state. By supporting small landlords, communities can foster both economic opportunity and long-term housing resilience.