What renters really want in 2026
- 19th Feb 26
Renting in the UK is changing, and for the better.
In 2026, more renters are looking for homes they can settle into, not just somewhere to stay for a year. Comfort, security, community and lifestyle now matter just as much as location and price.
At Love to Rent, we focus only on professionally managed rental homes built for long-term living. So we see first-hand what renters care about most, and how new homes are being designed to meet those expectations.
It’s about more than just a roof over your head
Today’s renters want homes that fit around real life. That could mean space to raise a family, somewhere your dog is genuinely welcome or a neighbourhood where you actually know your neighbours.
Even with rising building costs, there are plenty of new Build to Rent homes launching across the UK, and they’re being designed with renters in mind now and for for the future.
Build to rent vs Renting from a private landlord
So what’s the difference?
Put simply, Build to Rent homes are professionally managed, designed for renters and built for long-term living. That usually means:
- Longer tenancies
- Clear, consistent management
- Well-maintained homes
- A stronger sense of community
Renting is always a personal choice, but many people are drawn to Build to Rent because it offers peace of mind and stability. No unexpected changes, no worrying about whether your landlord might sell and no chasing repairs.
It’s no surprise that renters in these homes often report higher satisfaction and better wellbeing too.
Greener homes = lower bills
With energy costs still a big concern, renters are paying closer attention to how energy-efficient their homes are.
Many modern rental homes now include:
- High energy efficiency ratings, with good insulation and smart heating
- LED lighting and smart thermostats, to help keep costs down
- EV charging points, for electric vehicles
- Renewable energy, like solar panels or air source heat pumps
- Great bike storage, making greener travel easier
In fact, more renters than ever say they’re happy to pay a little extra for a home that’s better for the planet, and their wallet.
Everyday comfort & feel-good living
It’s often the little things that make a biggest difference to daily life.
Many Build to Rent homes now offer:
- On-site gyms, yoga or wellbeing spaces, no extra gym membership needed
- Genuinely pet-friendly features, like dog wash areas and green spaces
- Secure parcel lockers, perfect for online deliveries
- Outdoor spaces, such as rooftop gardens, BBQ areas and shared courtyards
These features aren’t about luxury, they’re about making daily life easier, healthier and more enjoyable.
Less flashy, more practical
There’s also a growing a shift towards what’s known as “Amenity Lite”, focusing on the spaces people actually use, rather than flashy extras that look good but rarely get used.
That means practical design, welcoming shared areas and amenities that support real communities, not just brochure photos.
As Anne-Marie Brown, Founder of Love to Rent, puts it: “Build to Rent isn’t one-size-fits-all anymore. It’s about creating homes that work for different lifestyles, budgets and life stages. With spaces that genuinely support wellbeing, community and long-term living.”
The future of renting
Looking ahead to 2026, renting is becoming less about compromise and more about choice. With better homes, greener design and a stronger focus on community, renters can find places that truly feel like home.
And that’s exactly how it should be.