AREY Group breaks ground on first Florida build-to-rent project

AREY Group has started construction on Enclave at Marston, a 75-home build-to-rent community in Gainesville near the University of Florida. The project marks the Georgia firm's entry into Florida and adds more rental housing to a supply-constrained submarket.

Why it matters: - Enclave at Marston is AREY Group’s first project in Florida and a sign the Macon-based firm is widening its Southeast build-to-rent footprint. - The 75-home community targets a Gainesville submarket near the University of Florida with limited institutional-quality build-to-rent supply. - The project adds single-family rental housing in a market tied to major employers, including UF Health.

What happened: - AREY Group said construction is officially underway on Enclave at Marston in Gainesville, Florida. - The company closed construction financing for the project and has begun site work. - Vertical construction is expected to start in early 2027. - Jim Chapman Construction Group is serving as general contractor.

The details: - Enclave at Marston will include 75 single-family rental homes. - The community will also feature eight garage buildings, EV chargers, a clubhouse and a swimming pool. - Homes will have three and four bedrooms. - Planned finishes and features include stainless steel appliances, quartz countertops, smart thermostats and keyless entry. - The project is designed for long-term rental demand. - The site is minutes from the University of Florida and UF Health. - UF Health is anchored by Shands Hospital and employs about 13,000 people in Gainesville. - The community is also near the city’s Innovation District and the Sid Martin Biotechnology Incubator. - Horizontal construction began in July 2026. - Leasing is expected to begin in the second quarter of 2027. - Construction is scheduled to finish in the fourth quarter of 2027. - A project website is available at More information.

Between the lines: - AREY Group is positioning Gainesville as an entry point into Florida and a foothold for future projects in the state. - The company is leaning into markets with high incomes, strong job centers and constrained rental supply. - The project fits a broader demand trend for professionally managed rental homes near major universities and health-care employers.

What's next: - Site work will continue ahead of vertical construction in early 2027. - Leasing should start in spring 2027 as the community moves closer to completion. - AREY Group said Gainesville could serve as a model for future Florida expansion.