Key Takeaways from the 2025 ECAP Healthcare Summit

From February 3rd through February 5th, the Walker & Dunlop team gathered in Miami, Florida, for the 2025 ECAP Healthcare Summit at Trump Doral. Alongside my colleagues Joshua Rosen, Tony Cassie, Frank Cassidy, and Richie Davis, I had the opportunity to engage with industry leaders, investors, and operators in the skilled nursing and seniors housing space. Here are some of the most important insights we took away from the event.

Positive momentum in skilled nursing

The skilled nursing industry is making significant strides in its recovery from the operational challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. Occupancy rates are approaching pre-pandemic levels, signaling strong demand and operational stabilization.

Improving expense management and staffing trends

While expenses remain elevated due to increased wages for permanent staff, reliance on costly contract staffing is steadily declining. This shift is bringing financial relief to operators and improving long-term stability in the sector.

State funding and reimbursements remain inconsistent

State reimbursement rates continue to lag behind industry needs, though progress varies across different regions. Some states are improving their support for skilled nursing operators, while others struggle to keep pace with rising costs.

Bridge-to-HUD lending is in high demand

There is a strong demand for bridge-to-HUD financing, with operators seeking both short-term solutions for acquisitions and longer-term strategies for stabilization and recapitalization. This underscores the importance of flexible financing options in today’s healthcare real estate market.

A red-hot sales market

The skilled nursing and seniors housing investment market remains as competitive as ever. Pricing is at historically high levels, and value-add opportunities—particularly in larger transactions—are attracting increasing interest from both traditional investors and newer entrants to the space.

The growing appeal of turnaround opportunities

Investors are actively pursuing turnaround deals, recognizing the potential for strong returns in stabilizing underperforming assets. This trend extends beyond full OpCo/PropCo trades to include leasehold and operational company (OpCo) transactions.

Walker & Dunlop: Your partner in seniors housing and healthcare real estate

Walker & Dunlop specializes in tailored financing solutions that support the growth and stability of skilled nursing and seniors housing operators. Whether you need bridge financing, HUD lending, or investment advisory services, our team is here to help.

Want to discuss financing options for your healthcare real estate investments? Reach out to our team today.