Equity Residential is a publicly traded real estate investment trust (REIT) that acquires, develops and manages multifamily residential properties. The company’s portfolio is concentrated in high-density, high-barrier-to-entry markets across the United States, with a focus on professionally operated apartment communities. Its business model emphasizes the ownership of Class A and B assets in urban and select suburban submarkets, offering one- and two-bedroom units, as well as larger floorplans designed to meet the needs of a diverse renter base.
Founded in 1993 by real estate investor Sam Zell as part of Equity Group Investments, Equity Residential has grown through strategic acquisitions and disciplined development. The company completed its initial public offering later that year, setting the stage for aggressive portfolio expansion in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Over time, it has refined its focus to concentrate on coastal gateway and high-growth Sun Belt markets, divesting lower-growth assets to redeploy capital into higher-return opportunities.
Equity Residential’s properties are primarily located in gateway cities such as New York, Boston, Washington, D.C., San Francisco and Seattle, as well as in growing metropolitan areas including Southern California, Denver and Portland. Headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, the company is supported by a senior leadership team with extensive experience in property management, investment strategy and capital markets. Through in-house leasing, maintenance and customer service operations, Equity Residential aims to deliver a consistent living experience while maximizing long-term portfolio value.
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