Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a healthy first quarter with core FFO per share exceeding the midpoint of guidance by $0.05 [4][12] - Same property revenues grew by 3.4% year-over-year, which was 40 basis points ahead of plan [12] - Delinquency improved to 1.3% of scheduled rent compared to 3.9% for the same period last year [5][12] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The first quarter saw a blended net effective rent growth of 2.8%, with new lease rates improving sequentially from the fourth quarter [5] - New lease rates turned positive in all three major regions, led by Northern California at 1.5%, Seattle at 1.3%, and Southern California at 20 basis points [7] - The turnover rate was notably low at 35%, contributing to stable occupancy levels [6] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total new housing supply delivery as a percentage of stock in 2025 is exceptionally low at only 50 basis points in the Essex markets [9] - Deal volume in the markets was higher in the first quarter compared to the same period last year, totaling $2.5 billion with cap rates in the mid to high 4% range [10] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is reallocating into higher rent growth markets and optimizing its operating platform to generate above-market returns [5] - The focus remains on maximizing revenues and generating long-term accretion, with a cautious approach due to macroeconomic uncertainties [8][9] - The company is actively pursuing opportunities to expand in Northern California and is studying other markets for potential investments [57] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the West Coast multifamily fundamentals being well-positioned for various economic outcomes due to low supply [9][96] - There is a cautious outlook regarding macroeconomic uncertainties impacting business investment and job growth, leading to a decision not to revise guidance upward at this time [8][12] - The labor market remains soft in Los Angeles, affecting pricing power, but there is optimism about recovery as delinquency levels improve [62] Other Important Information - The company has refinanced the majority of its 2025 debt maturities earlier this year, maintaining a strong balance sheet with over $1 billion in available liquidity [17] - The preferred equity portfolio saw around $27 million in redemptions, with expectations for further redemptions later in the year [15][16] Q&A Session Summary Question: Guidance on blended rate growth - Management confirmed that the original guidance included a slight increase in blended rate growth in the second half of the year, and they remain confident in achieving that [20][21] Question: Impact of the tech sector on the portfolio - Management noted that job openings in the top 20 tech companies have remained steady, indicating health in the sector, and they are not seeing signs of weakness [23][24] Question: Occupancy strategy for the second quarter - The occupancy strategy remains consistent, with a focus on pushing rents in Northern California while maintaining occupancy in Southern California due to supply dynamics [30][31] Question: Renewal rates and market tracking - Renewal rates in April were steady, landing in the low fours, consistent with expectations [40] Question: Changes in migration trends - No noticeable changes in international migration trends were reported, but domestic migration to San Francisco and San Mateo has turned positive [102][103]