A Renter's Questions About Built To Rent Homes

Posted 14 August 2022

We answer questions that renters ask about the growing ‘Built to Rent’ property market...

The phrase ‘Built to Rent’ is being seen more and more frequently in the UK property market – so what’s it all about?

What is ‘Built to Rent’?

As the name itself explains, Built to Rent (BTR) developments are designed exclusively for properties to rent out. It is a fast-growing property sector in the UK, meeting the demand for life in high-quality homes with useful on-site amenities and a real sense of community. With one management company responsible for all the properties and facilities, it aims to be a more appealing and reliable choice over renting from a private landlord.

What are Built to Rent homes?

Most Built to Rent homes right now are apartments set in attractive, contemporary-design blocks. There’s usually a mix of studios, one-, two- and three-bedroom properties to choose from to accommodate all sorts of requirements and budgets. Common to all of them is an impressive up-to-date specification and design and many will have private outdoor space in the form of a balcony or terrace. Renters will usually have the choice of whether the unit comes furnished or unfurnished.

Where are Built to Rent developments?

Built to Rent developments are currently set across a number of cities across Britain – London, Manchester, Birmingham and Leeds are particularly popular places. While city-centre locations are by far the largest proportion of today’s Built to Rent homes, it is predicted that more developments will be coming to many sought-after and up-and-coming towns.

Who lives in Built to Rent homes?

There’s a real diversity in who chooses to live on Built to Rent developments. There’s appeal to a whole range of people looking for a comfortable new home. Young professionals, couples, families, sharers, downsizers, can all be happy neighbours.

What are Built to Rent communities?

One important aspect of BTR developments is that the creation of a real community is a priority. The range of facilities for residents, such as gyms, children’s play areas, social spaces and co-working areas, provide a great opportunity to meet people. For those that want to attend, there will also be events where neighbours can meet and get to know each other. People with the same interests in things like sport, culture and pastimes are bound to make informal groups of their own too. Unlike many other residential developments, most BTR site are pet-friendly, so cat- and dog-owners may especially feel that they are particularly welcome.