Rize Alliance Launches Comma Properties, with A Vision for Building Better Rental

Under the Comma banner, Rize introduces a slate of design-forward, purpose-built rental developments from Vancouver to Los Angeles

Rize Alliance today unveiled Comma Properties, a new division focused on building better rental communities. Motivated by the need for uplifting rental that promotes social interaction, Comma will bring an integrated approach to rental property management, residential community programming, and retail leasing. Comma will deliver both residential and commercial spaces across the Lower Mainland as well as in Los Angeles.

“With Comma we want to shift the perception of what rental housing can be in our cities,” says Benn Duffell, VP of Development at Rize. “We are inspired to build communities where rental will no longer be seen as lesser than home-ownership. Comma’s rental properties will be design-forward, vibrant, and will strive to facilitate meaningful connections among residents.”

In its quest to build better rentals, Rize is expanding its portfolio to the US and developing a co-living rental project in Sawtelle Japantown, Los Angeles. Comma will bring the best of LA rental culture to its rental developments in the Lower Mainland.

“As a progressive city for renters, Los Angeles is home to a thriving co-living scene where social programming and shared living are at the core of its community,” continues Duffell. “We have been inspired by other cities with strong rental cultures and this is informing our work in Vancouver.”

The company’s first rental project, located in Fraserhood, broke ground in late 2020 and is expected to be move-in ready by spring 2023. This six-storey purpose-built rental will have a curated retail strategy that is geared towards independent and locally owned businesses. Rize is taking a hands-on approach to its retail strategy, ensuring that businesses within Comma buildings align with what matters to the residents and the surrounding neighbourhood. Comma-Fraser will have 104 total homes including below-market rentals and 13,500 square feet of commercial retail space.