PEF Advisors Acquires University Crossing and Woodland Crossing Apartments in Hadley, Mass.

Preservation Equity Fund Advisors, LLC (PEF Advisors) has completed the acquisition of University Crossing and Woodland Crossing Apartments, a 160-unit affordable housing community located in Hadley, Massachusetts. The transaction, which closed in April 2026, involves an undisclosed deal value and marks PEF Advisors' fifth acquisition through its third affordable housing fund. The portfolio includes an 80-unit senior community and an 80-unit family property, both of which were developed using low-income housing tax credits.

The University Crossing and Woodland Crossing properties feature a mix of income-restricted and market-rate units, primarily serving households earning between 50% and 60% of the Area Median Income (AMI). At the time of acquisition, the properties boasted a combined occupancy rate of 91.88%, highlighting the strong demand for affordable housing in the Hampshire County market. This area is characterized by a limited supply of new multifamily developments and high barriers to homeownership, which further supports the need for affordable rental options.

Located within proximity to the Five College Consortium, which includes prominent institutions such as Amherst College and the University of Massachusetts Amherst, the properties benefit from a stable economic environment driven by education, healthcare, and research sectors. The strategic positioning of University Crossing and Woodland Crossing enhances their appeal, as they cater to a diverse demographic that includes both families and senior residents. This integrated approach not only addresses the varied housing needs of the community but also offers PEF Advisors a diversified demand base, contributing to long-term occupancy stability.

PEF Advisors plans to implement targeted capital improvements at the acquired properties to enhance resident experience and address any deferred maintenance. The firm aims to preserve long-term affordability while also improving operational efficiencies. The combination of below-market rents and the potential for increased Area Median Income growth presents a compelling opportunity for value creation within a supply-constrained market.

The acquisition of University Crossing and Woodland Crossing Apartments underscores the ongoing trend of investment in affordable housing, particularly in high-demand markets. As the challenges of housing affordability continue to escalate across the United States, transactions like this one reflect a growing recognition of the importance of preserving affordable housing options. PEF Advisors' commitment to enhancing and maintaining these properties positions them well to address the pressing needs of the community while contributing to the overall stability of the rental market in Hampshire County.