Rethinking the Rental Experience: BrightSky's Blueprint with Charles McKeag

What if rental communities could offer the comfort of homeownership—without the long-term commitment?

In this episode of Smith Lane, we’re joined by Charles McKeag, President of the California division of BrightSky Residential, to explore how his team is reshaping the single-family rental experience. Charles began his career in land-use law, but a pivotal realization — that he wanted to build communities rather than simply represent those who do — led him to pivot into real estate development. That insight brought him to BrightSky at its inception just over three years ago.

Charles walks us through BrightSky’s innovative approach to designing single-family rental neighborhoods that offer residents the privacy and freedom of standalone homes—with none of the downsides of traditional apartment living. With features like private garages, outdoor spaces, no upstairs or downstairs neighbors, and amenities such as pools, spas, and 24-hour maintenance, these communities are redefining what “renting” can feel like.

We also dive into Charles’s leadership philosophy, centered on the idea that culture precedes strategy, and that putting people first matters, even when execution isn't flawless.

The episode wraps with an inside look at BrightSky’s latest project, created in partnership with the John Burns Institute, and a glimpse at the company’s ambitious plans for national expansion. It’s a thoughtful conversation about how design, leadership, and vision can come together to build belonging.

About Charles

Charles McKeag is a seasoned real estate executive with over 20 years of experience in the acquisition, entitlement, and development of residential and mixed-use communities throughout the Western United States. He currently serves as President of BrightSky Residential.  

Prior to his current role, Charles was President of MLC Holdings, Inc., a subsidiary of Meritage Homes Corporation, where he established operations in Northern California, Southern California, and Colorado, and successfully developed 30 new communities. Before that, he held leadership positions at The New Home Company and SCS Development Company, where he led the acquisition and development of over 6,000 residential units.  

Charles began his career as a lawyer before transitioning to real estate. He holds a Juris Doctorate with Distinction from the University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law and a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Oregon. He is a past Director of the Building Industry Association of the Bay Area and a current member of the Steering Committee for the Bay Area Chapter of Women's Housing Leadership Group.

Connect with Charles

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BrightSky Residential