Next week, from September 30 to October 4, marks the return of Love to Rent Week, an annual event that raises awareness of the growing Build to Rent (BTR) sector. This initiative showcases the key benefits of Build to Rent developments, which have been designed specifically for renters, offering a modern alternative to the traditional private rental market.
Build to Rent properties are rapidly gaining popularity due to their emphasis on community, flexibility and sustainability. According to Savills, the sector has experienced significant growth with investments totaling £1.2 billion in Q2 2024. In major cities, Build to Rent homes are rented out 25% faster than pre-pandemic levels, with the average time to let a BTR home being just 24 days.
Anne Marie Brown, Founder of Love to Rent, the first and leading digital marketing platform exclusively for Build to Rent, shares her insights on why BTR is becoming a preferred option for renters across the UK.
She explains, “Build to Rent developments are designed to meet the changing needs of modern renters. The sector offers far more than just a place to live – it delivers a lifestyle that focuses on convenience, community, and high-quality service. As the demand for affordable, flexible, and sustainable housing grows, Build to Rent is setting a new standard for rental properties.”
What is Build to Rent
Build to Rent developments are purpose-built communities that offer professionally managed high-quality apartments and homes, some with a range of amenities like gyms, co-working spaces, and communal areas. These developments prioritise convenience, flexibility, security and a sense of community, making them especially appealing to a diverse range of renters, from young professionals and digital nomads to older generations and families.
What are the main differences from the private rental market?
Unlike older rental properties, Build to Rent homes are designed specifically with the renter in mind, offering high-quality, energy-efficient homes with flexible leases and added conveniences. These purpose-built communities allowing residents to personalise their homes, bring pets and enjoy the freedom of long-term tenancies. Professional management and added conveniences such as on-site maintenance and communal amenities make Build to Rent a unique, hassle-free rental experience.
Is Build to Rent more expensive?
While Build to Rent might initially seem more expensive, this is often due to its all-inclusive nature. Many BTR developments offer packages that include gym memberships, superfast WIFI and on-site security, simplifying budgeting for renters. Additionally, with dedicated maintenance teams and the convenience of comprehensive services, Build to Rent can prove more cost effective in the long run.
Is Build to Rent only for young professionals?
Although Build to Rent initially started with young professionals in mind, it has significantly expanded, particularly in the single-family housing (SFH) market. As demand for suburban living grows, BTR developments are increasingly appealing to families, couples, downsizers and individuals looking for more space.
Research from Knight Frank shows that nearly 50% of UK private renters live in suburban areas, yet only 0.4% of these households are currently served by SFH developments. With predictions that the Build to Rent sector could grow to make up to 35% of all privately renting households, single-family housing is expected to double in the next two years, marking a significant shift in the rental landscape.
What is the lifestyle of Build to Rent?
Build to Rent developments are designed to offer more than just a home – it delivers a community-driven lifestyle. With curated events, pet friendly policies and spaces that promote interaction, BTR developments fosters a sense of belonging and connection. This approach provides renters with far more than just a place to live.
Love to Rent Week will spotlight how Build to Rent is reshaping modern rental experiences, offering renters the opportunity to live in sustainable, community-focused developments.
- Love To Rent is a promotional and listing service for Build To Rent schemes *