自如生长14年，两次改变租住行业的底层逻辑

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the evolution of the Chinese rental housing market, focusing on the transformation initiated by the company Ziroom, which shifted from a traditional rental model to an asset management approach, significantly changing the industry's underlying logic [1][6][24]. Group 1: Market Background and Initial Challenges - In 2011, a group of Chinese entrepreneurs, including Ziroom's founder, sought to learn from mature rental markets in Japan and the U.S. to innovate in China's rental sector [1][2]. - The rental market was primarily in a C2C phase, with high operational costs and inefficiencies due to the fragmented nature of individual landlords and tenants [2][3]. - Ziroom aimed to transform this market by productizing rental properties and enhancing transparency, which was initially met with skepticism from industry peers [2][3]. Group 2: Key Innovations and Business Model - Ziroom focused on three core areas: product standardization, service enhancement, and technology integration, which collectively improved rental efficiency and tenant experience [4][5]. - The company introduced a new rental model that allowed for the leasing of individual rooms rather than entire units, catering to diverse tenant needs and significantly increasing property utilization [4][5]. - By leveraging technology, Ziroom optimized the matching process between tenants and available properties, moving the rental experience closer to that of booking a hotel [5][22]. Group 3: Transition to Asset Management - In 2021, Ziroom transitioned to an "incremental rental" model, positioning itself as an asset management company rather than just a rental service provider [7][24]. - This shift was driven by the need for a more sustainable business model in response to market changes and increased competition, allowing for shared risk and reward with property owners [10][35]. - The new model has seen over 70% of Ziroom's properties switch to this asset management approach, demonstrating resilience in a challenging market environment [10][38]. Group 4: Long-term Vision and Industry Impact - Ziroom's evolution reflects a broader trend in the real estate sector, emphasizing the importance of understanding both tenant and landlord needs to create value [21][22]. - The company aims to redefine the rental market by providing high-quality living experiences through professional management and continuous property maintenance [26][39]. - Ziroom's journey illustrates the potential for innovation in the rental market, setting a new standard for professionalized housing rental services in China [8][39].