The Build to Rent (BTR) sector in London has gained significant momentum over the past few years, transforming the rental market by offering tenants high-quality, purpose-built homes with a host of amenities and services tailored to modern living. At Essential Living, we understand that renters in London are seeking more than just a place to live—they want a home that suits their lifestyle, where convenience, comfort, and community come first.
What is Build to Rent?
Build to Rent refers to homes specifically designed and developed for the rental market. Unlike traditional rental properties, which are often owned by private landlords, BTR properties are typically owned by institutional investors or dedicated rental developers. These developments are designed with long-term renters in mind, offering flexible tenancies, high-quality facilities, and professional management. You can read our detailed guide explaining what build to rent is or check out the key principles of the sector ARL here.
Key Features of Build to Rent:
- Purpose-built developments: Built for renters, not retrofitted.
- Professional management: On-site teams offer 24/7 support.
- Flexible lease options: Longer tenancies with greater security.
- Community focus: Shared spaces and events foster a sense of belonging.
- Amenities included: Gyms, co-working spaces, and communal lounges.
At Essential Living, our developments, such as Union Wharf in Greenwich, Dressage Court in Bethnal Green, Vantage Point in Islington and Berkshire house in Maidenhead, exemplify the best of Build to Rent, offering tenants a balanced mix of private and communal spaces.
The Rise of Build to Rent in London
London’s rental market has historically been dominated by private landlords, but with the rising demand for quality housing and more flexibility, Build to Rent has emerged as a solution for modern urban living. According to data from the British Property Federation, the BTR sector grew by over 25% in 2023 alone, and the trend shows no sign of slowing
London is particularly well-suited for BTR developments due to its diverse population and dynamic job market. Young professionals, families, and even downsizers are opting for BTR as it offers an unparalleled living experience, removing the common headaches of renting such as dealing with unreliable landlords and lack of amenities.
Why Choose Build to Rent in London?
There are several reasons why Build to Rent is quickly becoming the preferred option for London renters:
1. Convenience
BTR developments are designed with convenience in mind. From on-line rent payments to maintenance requests and parcel collection services, these properties provide hassle-free living. Essential Living takes convenience to the next level with a resident app that allows you to book communal spaces, report maintenance issues, and stay updated with community events.
2. Security and Flexibility
Build to Rent offers secure tenancy agreements, often with the option for longer leases, providing stability for tenants. At Essential Living, we offer flexible tenancy lengths to suit your needs, with no hidden fees or unexpected rent hikes.
3. Community Living
In a city as fast-paced as London, building a sense of community is invaluable. BTR developments encourage social interaction with shared spaces like rooftop terraces, residents’ lounges, and regular events. At Essential Living, we pride ourselves on creating spaces where people come together, making it more than just a home.
4. On-site Amenities
Build to Rent properties often come equipped with amenities like gyms, co-working spaces, and communal lounges, giving you access to a better quality of life without the need for extra memberships or fees. Essential Living’s developments go beyond the basics, offering premium amenities such as pet-friendly policies, cinema rooms, and yoga studios.
Essential Living: A Leader in Build to Rent
At Essential Living, we’re committed to transforming the way people live in London. Our BTR developments stand out because of our dedication to delivering exceptional homes, thoughtful design, and a strong sense of community.
Some of our stand out developments include:
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Vantage Point (Islington): A stunning tower offering panoramic views of the city, a 24-hour concierge service, and a vibrant community.
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Union Wharf (Greenwich): A riverside development that blends contemporary living with peaceful surroundings, offering easy access to central London.
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Dressage Court (Bethnal Green): A stylish development that caters to urban professionals, with quick transport links to the City and Shoreditch.
Each of our properties is designed to enhance your lifestyle, from the practical layout of each apartment to the high-quality finish and curated amenities.
Explore our available properties in London.
Benefits of Renting with Essential Living
Pet-Friendly
Unlike many traditional rental properties, Essential Living developments are pet-friendly. We believe pets are part of the family, and our buildings are designed with this in mind, offering pet-friendly amenities such as dog-washing stations and nearby parks.
Sustainability
At Essential Living, sustainability is a core value. Our buildings are designed to be energy-efficient, with eco-friendly materials, smart heating systems, and waste reduction initiatives in place to reduce the environmental footprint of our developments.
Community
At Essential Living, we believe in fostering a strong and supportive community where residents can truly feel at home. Stay connected, engage with your neighbours, join our events, plus party, lounge and work in our communal spaces.
Build to Rent vs. Traditional Renting: What’s the Difference?
When comparing Build to Rent to traditional renting in London, the advantages become clear. While traditional landlords may offer a one-size-fits-all approach, Build to Rent is tailored to the renter’s needs, offering a higher standard of living with greater flexibility and security.
| Feature | Build to Rent | Traditional Renting |
|---|---|---|
| Management | Professional, on-site management | Often private landlords with varied service |
| Amenities | High-quality, communal spaces included | Rarely included |
| Flexibility | Flexible, longer leases with tenant control | Fixed-term leases |
| Community | Social events and communal activities | Little to no community interaction |
For more information on how Build to Rent differs from traditional renting, check out this guide.
The Future of Build to Rent in London
The future of Build to Rent in London looks promising, with more developments under construction and a growing demand for modern, flexible living solutions. As the city continues to expand and evolve, so will the need for high-quality, professionally managed rental homes that cater to London’s diverse population.
Essential Living is committed to remaining at the forefront of this evolution. Our focus on creating sustainable, community-centric developments means we’re not just providing homes—we’re building long-term living solutions that enhance the quality of life for London renters.
Conclusion: Why Choose Essential Living for Your Build to Rent Home?
At Essential Living, we believe renting should be simple, flexible, and tailored to your needs. Our Build to Rent properties in London are designed to elevate your living experience, providing more than just a home—it’s a lifestyle. From on-site amenities to professional management and a strong sense of community, we go the extra mile to ensure your comfort and satisfaction.
Start your Build to Rent journey with Essential Living today. View our available properties or contact us to schedule a tour of one of our stunning developments.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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What is Build to Rent?
Build to Rent refers to properties specifically designed and developed for the rental market, offering tenants long-term security, professional management, and a range of amenities. -
Is Build to Rent more expensive?
While BTR properties may have slightly higher rents than traditional rentals, the added value comes from included amenities, professional management, and greater flexibility. -
Can I bring my pet to an Essential Living development?
Yes! We are pet-friendly across all our properties.
