Ting Qiao, CEO & Co-Founder, Wan Bridge

In an interview with Invest:, Ting Qiao, CEO and co-founder of Wan Bridge, emphasized the company’s pioneering use of AI in construction, including in-house algorithms and robotic site monitoring, to enhance efficiency and transparency. “We’re one of the few traditional real estate companies actively leveraging AI in meaningful ways,” he said.

What were some key milestones for Wan Bridge over the past year?

I think the most important development has been our progress with AI. While it might sound like a buzzword, for us it’s real. We’re one of the few traditional real estate companies actively leveraging AI in meaningful ways. Over the past 12 months, we’ve made significant strides in using AI to support our construction scheduling, budgeting, and on-site delay analysis. We’ve developed an in-house algorithm linked to ChatGPT that enhances transparency and efficiency. However, we don’t just rely on software; we also integrate physical AI within our smart-construction process. For instance, we’ve tested robotic dogs to capture on-site imagery, which is then fed into our AI system to produce reports on scheduling, quality, and safety. We realized no one else in our sector has adopted AI in such a holistic way. While it may not be revolutionary, it’s certainly a significant step forward for the real estate industry.

What makes the Cadia at Lago Mar project different from other communities in Greater Houston?

Cadia at Lago Mar is our latest single-family build-to-rent (BTR) community in Houston, offering family-friendly coastal living with easy access to resort-style amenities.

This community stands out in many aspects, including its prime location in a master-planned community featuring the largest crystal lagoon in Houston, and it is exclusively for rent. What sets Cadia at Lago Mar apart from other build-to-rent communities is the quality of the homes. We offer three- and four-bedroom homes, and we’ve even introduced double-height ceilings, something typically reserved for $700,000 – $800,000 homes. We’re offering luxury finishes and thoughtful design to renters, which is rare.

Our vision to provide high-end homes for renters is based on the belief that in today’s uncertain housing market, many potential homebuyers are hesitant to purchase. They still want high-quality homes in great locations with strong schools and amenities, but they also seek flexibility. Renting a Wan Bridge home gives them that option. It’s a way for them to experience the lifestyle of a master-planned community without the long-term commitment of buying. We’re not competing with homebuilders; we’re offering an alternative for people who want to live in these communities but aren’t ready to buy.

What trends in real estate support the BTR model in Houston?

Despite rising construction costs, which are partly due to tariffs that add $10,000 to $30,000 per home, Houston remains a strong real estate market. The region continues to see job and population growth, so the fundamental demand for housing is healthy. However, the uncertainty in long-term interest rates and broader economic concerns, like federal budget tightening and social security, are making homeownership less attractive right now. The market uncertainty is driving more people toward renting, especially high-quality rentals like those offered by Wan Bridge, creating a mutually beneficial opportunity for us to serve potential homeowners who are in a holding pattern.

What areas is Wan Bridge targeting for future communities?

We have a healthy pipeline of 20 to 25 sites across Houston, Dallas–Fort Worth, and Austin. These are either under entitlement, in negotiations, or already under development. We’re still focused on Texas, and we’re confident that even amid uncertainty, our existing pipeline will allow us to deliver strong, appealing communities to both our investors and our residents. Before purchasing land, every Wan Bridge site goes through a thorough vetting process in which we conduct extensive research to ensure the site is in an area with population and job growth and solid household income. This exhaustive vetting process is how we ensure we’re meeting real demand and building communities with long-term value. We’re currently seeing strong demand across the board.

How does Wan Bridge balance home design and amenities in its communities?

Our homes are designed as move-up products, not entry-level. We are proud to be one of the first BTR developers to introduce high-end features to Texas renters, including 10-foot ceilings and luxury finishes similar to five-star hotels.

For amenities, we’ve learned that our communities with more than 80 units benefit from having a swimming pool and quality pavilions in addition to the other conveniences designed to make life hassle-free for our renters. Texas summers are intense, so these features really enhance the resident experience. In larger communities, such as Pradera Oaks, which has over 800 single-family units and another 200 apartments, we’re opening what we believe is the best clubhouse in South Houston, modeled after a Four Seasons resort. 

How is Wan Bridge addressing labor challenges in construction?

Labor can be a challenge, but it doesn’t have to be. Subcontractors want consistency and trust. We have found it is critical to offer them a reliable flow of work, not 50 starts one month and zero the next. We focus on an even flow of starts, which helps us retain subcontractors and build long-term relationships. Additionally, we’ve created a platform that supports our vendors, especially smaller subcontractors, by streamlining communication and payments. It helps them operate efficiently without needing a large back office. Our platform gives them 24/7 access to job schedules, site images, and timelines, helping them plan better and ensure profitability. It’s a game-changer compared to traditional operations.

How is Wan Bridge helping investors navigate risks and returns?

Fewer new BTR communities are coming online this year, which reduces competition. Last year, some competitors were offering up to six months of free rent, which shows how tough the market was. This year is different as there’s modest growth, but a lot less competition overall. If people want to rent in a new community, they often only have one option: ours. Also, if you invested last year, you did so at yesterday’s construction costs. With tariffs pushing prices up, you saved significantly compared to building the same home today. And with the potential for interest rates and cap rates to drop in 2025 or beyond, valuations could improve. We’re also seeing opportunities to buy up lots, especially townhome lots, at good prices because builders can’t sell to homebuyers right now. This unique opportunity creates a rare window to invest and build.

What are Wan Bridge’s priorities over the next two to three years?

My top priority is ensuring my team feels comfortable utilizing AI to boost efficiency. I truly believe that in five to seven years, people who don’t work with AI will struggle to find jobs. AI allows me to be 10 times more productive; it’s like having superpowers. With AI, I can get precise, instant support that helps me make better decisions. We’re embracing this technology fully so we can stay ahead and keep delivering exceptional results in a rapidly changing world.