Redefining family living in the UK with Build to Rent
- Go back
- 04th Feb 25
Trying to secure a good-quality family rental home in the UK comes with its challenges. The private rental market is often competitive, with a shortage of family-friendly properties that offer the space, amenities, and stability needed for growing households.
This struggle is compounded by the uncertainty of short-term contracts, which can disrupt children’s education and family routines. However, an increasingly popular choice is emerging as more families recognise an appealing alternative. Build to Rent single-family housing is surfacing as a vital solution, addressing these issues by providing purpose-built, high-quality homes designed with families in mind, alongside professional management and long-term security.
Build to Rent growth
According to the latest report by Knight Frank, total investment in the Build to Rent sector exceeded £5 billion for the first time, and single-family housing (SFH) has played a significant role in this expansion, securing £1.8 billion in funding for nearly 6,000 homes.
Lizzie Breckner, Head of BTR Research at Knight Frank, explains: “The strong levels of investment into single-family housing have the potential to change the composition of the overall BTR market, which remains strongly weighted towards multifamily stock."
While SFH currently represents 11% of completed Build to Rent homes, its share of the under-construction pipeline has grown to an impressive 22%. These developments highlight the rising popularity of single-family housing as a modern solution for UK families.
Appealing to modern families
Traditionally, Build to Rent was perceived as an option for young professionals in urban cities. However, the landscape is evolving. The growth of single-family Build to Rent housing is redefining family living by providing high-quality, purpose-built homes that meet the needs of modern families.
These homes are often located in well-connected suburban areas, offering the space, flexibility, and community feel that families desire. With professionally managed properties and additional perks such as on-site maintenance, flexible contracts and green spaces, single-family Build to Rent homes present a hassle-free lifestyle for families of all sizes.
What families are looking for
For many families, flexibility is a key factor when considering a new home. Renting offers the mobility to relocate for work or personal reasons without the long-term commitment of homeownership. Additionally, with rising house prices and the high cost of deposits, many people don’t want to delay starting a family before getting on the housing ladder. But renting in the private sector doesn’t always live up to expectations. This is where Build to Rent stands out. Designed specifically with renters in mind, Build to Rent developments offers the additional family-friendly amenities that transform lives for residents.
Furthermore, Build to Rent’s longer and flexible tenancy agreements are a significant advantage for families seeking stability and the ability to establish roots in their community. Once the children settle in at school, it’s a huge problem if the landlord decides to sell and the family has to uproot.
Renting checklist
The post-pandemic demand for homes with outdoor spaces and robust broadband connections has further driven interest in Build to Rent family homes. Developments cater to family life, offering larger layouts, modern designs, and energy-efficient features that reduce running costs. Many developments are tailored specifically for families, with amenities such as play areas and green spaces. Community-focused living is another attractive feature, with shared spaces and organised events fostering a sense of belonging. Families also appreciate the professional management that Build to Rent homes provide, ensuring consistent maintenance, security, and customer service.
Where to find family homes to rent
Challenging outdated perceptions that Build to Rent is only geared towards city professionals, Love to Rent is at the forefront of promoting the benefits of Build to Rent for all. Through its news section, social posts and the educational Build to Rent Week, the platform is informing the public about the diverse offerings within Build to Rent, including the single-family housing sector.
Being listed on Love to Rent not only helps developers showcase their properties but also connects them with an audience eager to explore this modern housing solution. The platform is driving awareness of how Build to Rent provides innovative options for all, from young professionals to growing families as Anne-Marie Brown Founder of Love to Rent explains: "Love to Rent is more than a listing platform, it’s offering people information about a sustainable solution for the UK’s housing needs. As single-family housing continues to gain traction, Love to Rent is playing a key role in shaping the sector’s future, ensuring that everyone, from individuals to families, can enjoy the benefits of Build to Rent.”
Start the search for your new home today!