What is Home Leasing?
Based in Rochester, New York, Home Leasing is a private, family-owned company operating across New York, Pennsylvania, and Maryland. Their services span development, construction, and property management—but honestly, they do so much more than that. Every part of their business is driven by a mission to improve the lives of residents and the communities where they work. Founded back in 1967 by twin brothers Nelson and Norman Leenhouts, Home Leasing has grown from a small operation into a substantial real estate business with a diversified portfolio including single-family homes, apartments, and commercial properties.
Main Benefits and Key Figures
Over the years, Home Leasing has achieved some impressive milestones. Here are a few highlights:
- Founded in 1967 by Nelson and Norman Leenhouts
- Expanded to approximately 50,000 rental apartments across 12 states during the Home Properties era
- Managed 10,000 affordable apartments as part of their portfolio
- Established Home Leasing Construction in 2008 to oversee construction services
- Built an in-house development team by 2015
- Employs over 200 people with central offices in downtown Rochester
- Maintains a B Corp score of 86.6, reflecting strong commitment to sustainability and social responsibility
The Family Legacy and Leadership Evolution
Nelson and Norman Leenhouts didn’t just build a company—they built a legacy. After growing Home Leasing Corporation for over 25 years, they formed Home Properties, which went public in 1994. The brothers served as joint CEOs until 2005. Then, in 2004, they transitioned affordable housing and commercial real estate back to themselves, leading to a split in 2006: Norman’s family took over commercial properties under Broadstone Real Estate, while Nelson’s family focused on affordable housing and community development through Home Leasing. Fast forward to 2017, Bret Garwood joined as COO and became CEO in 2019, with Nelson stepping into Chairman Emeritus. And in 2025, the third generation stepped up—Megan Houppert as CEO and Sarah Struzzi as COO—continuing the family tradition with fresh energy.
Core Values Driving the Company Culture
At the heart of Home Leasing is a culture that values every employee as a vital part of the team. Their core values? They’re pretty inspiring:
- Servant Leadership: Leaders serve first, prioritizing the well-being of the organization and those who directly serve customers and build communities.
- Commitment to Community: Every person is valued equally, with respect for diversity and decisions made for the greater good, not just self-interest.
- Transparency: Openness and honesty are key, fostering trust with residents, employees, partners, vendors, and neighbors alike.
- Generosity: Active engagement in communities through volunteerism and charitable giving is encouraged and celebrated.
- Sustainability: Doing what’s best for employees, communities, and the environment while ensuring the company’s long-term health. Plus, they’re proud to be a Certified B Corp.
Growth Through Development and Construction
Home Leasing didn’t stop at property management. In 2008, they launched Home Leasing Construction to coordinate and manage construction services not only for their own projects but also for third-party clients. This move allowed them to control quality and timelines more effectively. Then in 2015, they expanded further by building an in-house development team, which means they can now handle projects from the ground up—literally. This vertical integration supports their mission to create affordable housing and foster community development with a hands-on approach.
Impact on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities – through affordable housing and community development
- SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth – by employing over 200 people and supporting professional growth
- SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities – embracing diversity and equal value for all individuals
- SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production – through sustainable construction and operations
- SDG 13: Climate Action – by maintaining environmental sustainability as a core value
Looking Ahead: A Family Business for Generations
Home Leasing plans to remain a privately-owned family business for generations to come. Guided by a Family Council of owners and an Advisory Board providing outside expertise, the company is set to continue growing responsibly. With three generations of the Leenhouts family involved, the company balances tradition with innovation, always keeping community and sustainability front and center. It’s a story of dedication, evolution, and a genuine commitment to making a positive difference—one home, one community at a time.
