BTR
21/02/25
In this article, Focus’ Managing Director of BTR, Nicole Eve, explores the benefits of SFH, its importance in the UK housing ecosystem, and the companies excelling in this space.
5 min read
Single-Family Housing and Single-Family Rental properties are emerging as a significant trend in the UK property market, reflecting shifts in consumer preferences and market dynamics. Unlike traditional housing built for ownership, single-family housing caters specifically to renters who want the benefits of standalone living without the long-term commitment of buying a property. This model appeals to a diverse demographic, from young professionals and families to retirees – offering flexibility, convenience and modern amenities.
First of all, if you’re confused by the terminology, all Single-Family Housing means is the building (or home) is usually occupied by just the one household or family and consists of one dwelling.
SFH properties provide a unique combination of privacy, space, and flexibility, making them an attractive option for renters. These homes often feature ample living areas, allowing families to spread out, and those working from home to create a home office. Unlike apartments, SFH properties offer the privacy of no shared walls or communal spaces, giving residents a sense of independence similar to home ownership. Additionally, access to private gardens is a significant draw for families with children or pets, who need outdoor space.
Another key advantage is the convenience they offer. Renters benefit from professionally managed maintenance, where repairs and upkeep are efficiently handled – often through user-friendly apps, that allow tenants to report issues and schedule services seamlessly. This removes the stress and uncertainty of private landlords or letting agencies handling repairs independently, ensuring that any issues are resolved quickly by professional property management teams.
New-build SFH homes boast superior energy efficiency compared to older properties. Modern construction techniques, high-quality insulation, and advanced heating systems ensure lower energy consumption, resulting in reduced utility bills for tenants. Many of these homes incorporate energy-efficient appliances, smart thermostats, and even renewable energy solutions like solar panels, making them a more sustainable choice for environmentally conscious renters. These features not only benefit the environment but also enhance the overall comfort and affordability of renting a single-family home.
Renting at a single-family housing development allows for greater mobility and security, making it ideal for those who aren’t ready to settle in one place. It provides a long-term rental home that doesn’t leave the resident at the mercy of a private landlord. With minimum EPC rating regulations, increased taxation for multiple properties and other factors impacting the private rented sector, some private landlords are selling their portfolios, leaving residents desperately looking for a secure place to call home.
The rise of SFH is addressing critical gaps in the housing market. With rising property prices, interest rate increases in recent years, and the removal of the Government-backed Help To Buy scheme making it even harder for first-time buyers to get their foot on the property ladder, more people are opting to rent rather than buy. SFH properties provide an affordable, high-quality alternative for renters who want to access suburban or spacious single-family housing without the financial barriers associated with ownership.
SFH properties also foster community integration. These homes are often located within established neighbourhoods, offering tenants the opportunity to connect with local communities and enjoy a sense of belonging. This combination of affordability, flexibility and integration makes SFH an increasingly important segment of the housing market.
Several UK-based companies are excelling in the SFH space. The leaders here specialise in purpose-built rental communities, focusing on high-quality, modern properties equipped with modern amenities. HomeViews places companies such as Allsop’s developments in the West Midlands, and Simple Life Homes developments in the North as highly rated leaders in single-family housing developments, catering to families and professionals seeking flexible housing options. These sites have gained recognition for prioritising resident satisfaction, providing excellent homes, energy efficiencies, and the fostering of community.
As the demand for flexible and spacious rental housing continues to grow, the SFH market is poised for sustained expansion. By addressing modern lifestyle needs and filling critical gaps in the housing market, this sector offers a brilliant solution for renters. Innovations in design, technology and community planning will likely shape the future of SFH, ensuring its place as a cornerstone of the evolving UK property landscape.
You can read our previous article on the rise of BTR in the UK here.
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