Rental trend predictions
- 08th Jun 21
As we approach the half way mark in 2021, we look at why the Build to Rent sector hits all the predicted rental trends. With the lockdowns forcing us to rethink our home environments, renters now have a much clearer idea about what they want. Luckily, the Build to Rent sector is one step ahead and many of the future trends can already be found in developments throughout the UK.
New experiences
The pandemic put everyone’s life on hold for at least a year or more and now people are ready to face the world again. Property experts reckon that now the vaccines have kicked in, renters will have more confidence to move around more freely. The Build to Rent sector takes a lot of the hassle out of moving, allowing renters to deal with professional companies who will assist them to move quickly and easily. This allows people the opportunity to move around the UK for work or simply to have new living experiences.
Insta-trends
How many of us spent lockdown glued to our phones looking at Instagram and swooning over the interiors? Renters want their homes to look and feel luxurious. Forget magnolia walls, renters want their homes to have been designed by an interior specialist so they can show off their pads to their friends, either virtually or in real life. The Build to Rent sector has acknowledge this change in attitude towards our living habits. In the same way we’ve seen hotel design change over the years, these developers are designing for maximum appeal for customers.
Supporting local
Localism is a big trend to emerge in 2021 and is expected to last well into the future. People are becoming more aware of the importance of supporting local and are wanting to make connections, for however long they are in one place. Many developments in the Build to Rent sector are ideally located for those that want to enjoy the best on their doorstep. You will find great parks, friendly coffee shops, plenty of supermarkets and a range of excellent restaurants within walking distance of some of the most desirable developments.
Creating communities
The Build to Rent sector has long acknowledged the importance of getting to know your neighbours. The lockdowns caused a huge amount of loneliness and highlighted the importance of being part of a community. Within many Build to Rent developments, there are dedicated resident teams who understand the needs of those living in the buildings. As well as generally making life a little easier in terms of parcel deliveries or help with shopping for those isolating, they will arrange various events to connect the residents. From friendly football matches through to summer barbeques, loneliness could be a thing of the past if you choose to live in a Build to Rent development.
Pet friendly
If the pandemic taught us anything, it is surely that a dog is a person’s best friend. For many years, renters have either had to miss out on having a dog or cat or choose from a very limited option of rentals that allow them. Looking at the future, more tenants are going to request rentals that allow pets. Many developments in the Build to Rent sector are not only pet friendly, but they are also accessible to great parks and trails for daily dog walks.
Work from home
This is one area that looks set to be changed forever. Many businesses will allow people to continue to work from home either full or part-time. On one hand, this offers more flexibility, on the other, many people don’t have a good office set up from home. The Build to Rent sector is already catering for home workers by providing shared office space within the developments. This is the perfect compromise for many who find working at home challenging. By creating a dedicated work space for tenants in the building, it is addressing the issues surrounding lack of structure, poor WIFI and desk spaces and social isolation.
Entertainment at home
Although life is opening up, the pandemic has made many people realise that it is actually quite nice, and a lot less tiring, to socialise at home. Travelling to the gym seems like such a chore, which is why many Build to Rent developments prioritise having a residents’ fitness area. With rooftop cinemas, swimming pools or restaurants and bars, residents will not have to leave their development to enjoy a full social life.
Re-connecting with nature
Whether you are a home owner or a renter, being able to connect with nature is really important. We’ve learnt the importance of how nature and being outside can play a vital role in our health and wellbeing. This is why many Build to Rent apartments will come with a balcony or terrace so renters can enjoy creating their own garden area for relaxing, growing or dining outside.