The Timing Issue Contributing to A Rise in Late Rent-Payment 

For 25 consecutive months, the rate of on-time rent payment among tenants of independent landlords fell, according to a data analysis conducted by Chandan Economics. But this financial distress extends far beyond smaller buildings. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau reports that the median outstanding rent balance due grew 60% between September 2021 and November 2024 across all the rental units it observed. Inflation, rising household debt, and interest payments are crowding out disposable income as well as money to pay for necessities.  

Fixing the mismatch in timing between when most workers are paid (bi-weekly) and when rent is due (often early in the month) can help. Camber Creek portfolio company Flex fills this gap. Flex makes it easier for landlords to manage late-payment risk and increase the number of on-time payments. It offers an alternative, subscription-based line of credit. For a monthly fee (paid by renters), Flex will pay tenants’ lease payment when due, allowing them to repay that amount on a flexible schedule of their choosing over the month. This arrangement guarantees a landlord will receive rent on time and in full while giving tenants financial flexibility throughout the month. Since Flex functions as a credit line, timely repayment helps a renter build credit. 

Flex costs landlords nothing. To date, it has facilitated more than $17 billion in on-time rent payments for more than 2,000 property management companies, including 39 of the National Multifamily Housing Council Top 50. 

Consistent rent payments keep buildings properly maintained and housing supply stable. Solutions that reduce payment-risk are a win-win, strengthening tenant and landlord security.

Photo by Mitchell Luo