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Water's Edge Repositioning: repositioned community in North Tacoma, Washington

Case Study

Water's Edge Repositioning

North Tacoma, Washington

  • 46%

    Top line revenue growth

  • $600+

    Monthly premium per renovated home

  • 38

    Homes renovated of 76

The Challenge

Water's Edge was acquired in 2022 at the peak of the cycle. Rents sat well below market, the product was dated, and the community carried significant renovation upside that had never been captured.

Ownership needed a plan that produced income growth quickly without destabilizing occupancy, and a capital story a lender would underwrite.

Our Approach

We led a capital improvement campaign of more than $1 million: full interior renovations with quartz counters, upgraded cabinetry, LVP flooring, stainless appliance packages, and in unit washers and dryers.

Exterior work covered full siding replacement and paint, finished garages with epoxy floors, an outdoor kitchen and fireside lounge, a tennis court, walking trails, and an off leash dog park.

Operations were tightened in parallel. We implemented a ratio utility billing system, optimized expenses, and sequenced renovations with natural turnover so residents stayed comfortable.

The Results

Top line revenue grew 46 percent. Renovated homes earn a premium of more than $600 per month, roughly a 30 percent return on renovation cost, and classic home trade outs exceed 20 percent.

Renovated homes now rent between $2,600 and $2,995, with the average two bedroom at $2,741, about 52 percent above the neighborhood median of $1,801.

A Fannie Mae cash out refinance was completed in 2026. Of 76 homes, 38 are renovated, leaving roughly half the community as further upside.

Water's Edge is a 2026 WMFHA Emerald Awards finalist for Renovated Community of the Year.

Before and After

The Transformation

  • Water's Edge townhomes with Puget Sound views

    Water's Edge townhomes with Puget Sound views

  • Renovated interior with quartz counters and LVP flooring

    Renovated interior with quartz counters and LVP flooring

  • Upgraded kitchen and stainless appliance package

    Upgraded kitchen and stainless appliance package

  • Outdoor kitchen and fireside lounge

    Outdoor kitchen and fireside lounge

  • Exterior after full siding replacement and paint

    Exterior after full siding replacement and paint

The capital plan changed who toured the property, and the rents followed.

Ownership group, Pierce County

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Every turnaround starts with an honest look at the asset. We will review your property and show you where the value sits.

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