Build-to-Rent: a whole new boujee way of renting
There's a new kind of rental property on the market offering hip, hotel-style living. We set out to find out everything you need to know about the Build-to-Rent phenomenon
Build-to-Rent properties offer a whole different class of renting experience, with shared facilities like gyms or co-working spaces, on-site property management, and community built-in.
Here’s everything you need to know about this relatively new and rather different type of renting…
Bad reputation
Image credit: Adobe Stock
The rental market in Britain has something of an iffy reputation – the only stories about the sector that hit the headlines seem to be bad news.
They tend to fall into one of two categories: horror stories about mould-ridden dumps unfit for human habitation, which bad landlords are refusing to repair; or shock-horror tales about the exorbitant price of renting a cupboard that’s being passed off as a studio flat in some posh part of London – neither portraying the sector in a good light.
UK rental market
Yet plenty of us are living perfectly happily in privately-rented properties: there are 4.7 million households in the UK private-rented sector, equating to around a fifth of all households (making this the second largest tenure type, after owner occupation).
Most UK landlords are small-scale investors looking to accrue money for their own pension pot.
Some are good landlords, some bad but generally, you know what you’re going to get when you rent: a fairly standard flat, or house, with workaday, perhaps somewhat dated, fixtures and fitting. Liveable not luxe
Build to Rent
Image credit: Adobe Stock
However, there’s a new type of landlord on the scene, offering a distinctly different type of rented accommodation.
These are larger property companies investing money to build new properties specifically for renting, in a new model called Build to Rent (BtR).
Although BtR has actually been in the UK since 2012, it’s not a sector that is widely known and understood yet.
But these properties have a lot to offer – so if you’re in the market for a rental property, it pays to get informed about BtR.
Sam Davies, from property investment specialists UOWN, explains, “The UK is projected to need 1 million more rental homes by 2031, which, at the current rate, would mean every single new home built would need to go to renters – which is obviously not going to happen.
BtR is helping to plug some of this gap. Economies of scale, easier management, and growing demand are making the sector very popular with large and institutional [property] investors.”
Communal facilities
Image credit (and top of page): Essential Living
Because it’s a relatively new sector, properties in this category are new build. Many of them are apartments in large blocks, and they tend to be high end, with nice communal facilities in which community-building activities are organised.
Nick Woodward, of BtR specialists Essential Living, explains, “As cities evolve and housing needs become more complex, the BtR sector is emerging as a transformative solution for modern renters.
Unlike traditional buy-to-let properties, BtR developments are purpose-built for rental, offering high-quality, professionally managed homes with an emphasis on community and convenience.
“BtR schemes often feature shared spaces like residents’ lounges, co-working areas, gyms, and roof terraces.
“These amenities encourage social interaction and foster a sense of belonging that is often missing in private rental accommodation.”
Thomas Oldham, of the UK Construction Blog, adds, “BtR developments are changing how we think about renting.
“They’re designed to offer efficient property management, with large blocks of 150+ units that keep costs lower compared to converted houses.
“Maintenance is handled quickly, thanks to on-site teams dedicated to resident services.
“The range of amenities is a big selling point, too. Many BtR developments even feature things like cinema rooms.
“Plus, the focus on community – through social events and gatherings – creates a more engaging living experience.”
Easy living
Image credit: Essential Living
Nick agrees, “One of the most significant benefits of BtR is that it provides a lifestyle choice rather than just a place to live.
“With thoughtfully designed homes, on-site amenities, and a focus on community living, renters can enjoy a level of service and flexibility that traditional rentals rarely offer.
“With a 24-7 on-site team and maintenance services available, residents can enjoy the convenience of knowing that any issues will be swiftly taken care of.”
Pets welcome
He adds, “Furthermore, BtR homes are usually pet-friendly – something that can be difficult to find in the standard rental market.
“This inclusivity reflects the changing needs of renters who see their homes as long-term living spaces rather than temporary stopgaps.”
Pet-friendly features might include a communal pet wash and dog-walking areas.
Most BtR properties are best suited to single people or couples – but there is a separate category of BtR property that works on similar principles but is aimed at families. This is known as Single Family Housing.
Solutions for families
Image credit: Wise Living
Anne Malone, from Wise Living, which manages many Single Family Housing schemes, explains, “For families in the private-rental sector, ‘home’ is more than just a property, it’s about community, stability, and a sense of belonging.
“Renting can often feel temporary, but, while residents might find it harder to become emotionally invested in their four walls without the perk of full ownership, other elements such as the connections they form can build up this sense of belonging, and ‘home’.
In fact, a recent Home Views Build to Rent report echoed this, finding that a ‘sense of belonging’ was one of the biggest drivers of happiness for renters.
Single Family Housing
Image credit: Wise Living
“BtR developments – particularly Single Family Housing – are designed to foster this sense of community, with shared spaces, well maintained outdoor areas, and professionally managed properties, which encourage long-term residency and meaningful connections.
“A strong neighbourhood environment, with connections to schools, local amenities, and like-minded families, can help transform a rented house into a true home, and makes it an ideal place for families to settle down.”
Anne continues, “In existing rental stock, the homes are often tired and outdated, expensive to run and do not offer the quality or style of living that modern renters want and need.
“As Single Family Housing specialists, we focus on creating well built, energy-efficient homes in fantastic locations, ensuring families have access to good schools, accessible transport links, and local amenities.
“Our homes are designed for long-term living, with sustainable features, responsive property management, and longer tenancies, giving families peace of mind.
“A YouGov survey in 2024 found 18% of people didn’t have repairs done on their home in the last two years due to it being too expensive (57%) or not being able to find the right person for the job (19%). In that context, offering services like home management and maintenance is just another way we can offer a safe, secure and simple way to live.”
Renting as a lifestyle choice
Nick says, “As the demand for high-quality rental accommodation continues to rise, the BtR model is set to play an increasingly vital role in urban housing.
“It provides a great alternative for those who value convenience, flexibility, and community, and shows that renting can be not just a necessity, but a desirable lifestyle choice.”
Things to consider
Thomas points out, “It’s important to consider the cost. BtR properties tend to come with higher rents, reflecting the quality of the accommodation and the extra perks.
“You can also expect rent increases, as these developments are often owned by pension funds or corporate investors.”
Cons of BtR
Sam also warns, “The cons are that you are still renting and not getting a foot on the housing ladder.
“That being said, you are getting the benefits of a race to the top rather than the bottom, with owners who are institutional investors who have a real stake in making sure these schemes are well run and of the highest quality.”
Long-term stability
He continues, “On the plus side, BtR offers more security when it comes to long-term living. Institutional owners are less likely to suddenly sell, which means more stability for tenants.
“The properties also maintain high-quality standards, including things like excellent soundproofing and modern features.
“While the premium rent might not suit everyone’s budget, the combination of professional management, top-notch amenities, and stability makes BtR a strong contender in today’s competitive rental market.
“Just be sure to check out the quality of the management and make sure you fully understand the costs before you sign anything.”
Find out more
Image credit: Essential Living
There are currently just under 250,000 BtR units at various stages of delivery in the UK: about 79,000 complete, 72,000 under construction, and 113,000 in planning.
Check out a map of their locations and find out more about BtR here.
Look out for BtR properties on property platforms such as HomeViews and Rightmove.
BtR PROS
- Security of tenure with secure, long leases
- Shared facilities
- Community building activities to help you get to know your neighbours
- On-site maintenance
- Pet-friendly
- Concierge/security
- Hotel-style living
- New build
- Energy efficient
- Subject to Housing Ombudsman in case of complaints
BtR CONS
- Higher rents to cover communal facilities and on-site maintenance
- No option to buy your property
- You’re not getting a foot on the property ladder
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