Guardian: 15 properties and 3,050 units were acquired

Guardian: 15 properties and 3,050 units were acquired

Guardian, a leading multifamily operations, development, and investment firm in the Pacific Northwest, has completed a significant $497 million portfolio acquisition spanning Oregon and New Mexico. The acquisition includes 15 properties and 3,050 units, marking Guardian's largest single transaction to date and one of the largest in the United States for 2025 [1].

The acquisition aligns with Guardian's mission to preserve and expand quality affordable housing. The properties, built after 2000, exhibit historically high occupancy and low turnover. Guardian plans to voluntarily convert a portion of existing market-rate units to 60% AMI (Area Median Income), further enhancing affordability for working families. This move underscores Guardian's commitment to long-term housing preservation [1].

The transaction was completed in two phases. The first phase involved two Portland-area properties totaling 310 apartment homes, funded by institutional capital partner AEW. The second phase included 13 properties and 2,740 units in Portland, Oregon, and Albuquerque, New Mexico, in a venture with NEF and JPMorgan Chase. Guardian secured regulatory approvals for ownership transfers under an accelerated timeline, ensuring long-term stability for residents [1].

Guardian's expansion into New Mexico solidifies its presence in Oregon and establishes a meaningful entry into the state. The properties acquired will remain affordable for current and future residents, reinforcing Guardian's mission as a steward of long-term housing preservation [1].

This acquisition is part of a broader trend where companies are boosting their debt levels to fund a $1 trillion wave of acquisitions. The Federal Reserve's potential rate cuts, improved regulatory approval for tie-ups, and reduced stock market volatility have improved conditions for M&A. Companies are lifting their debt loads relative to earnings, with the leverage ratio close to its highest level since 2021 [2].

References:
[1] https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250903338736/en/Guardian-Closes-on-a-Significant-%24497-Million-Portfolio-Acquisition-to-Preserve-More-Than-3000-Units-of-Affordable-Housing-Across-Two-States
[2] https://www.ainvest.com/news/companies-set-boost-debt-levels-1-trillion-acquisition-wave-2508/