ASK4 recently hosted a webinar exploring the wants and needs of residents of build-to-rent accommodation, featuring testimonies from operators Allsop and VervLife, as well as data and statistics from SAY Property.
Following the publication of ASK4’s latest research report, Building A True Home, which explored expectations around Internet connectivity throughout the BTR journey, ASK4 aimed to dig deeper into the findings from the report and expand the scope by looking beyond WiFi and connectivity.
Joining Billy Kontoulis and Toni Waites of ASK4 were Katherine Rose, Managing Director of VervLife, Alex Naumanen-Ley, Senior Asset Manager at Allsop, and Esme Webb, Director at SAY Property, ASK4’s partners for the Building A True Home report.
Highlights from the discussion
- Today’s BTR residents are looking for service-led, experience-first living—not just good buildings
- BTR stands out as an asset class thanks to the “human touch” required
- The trend amongst BTR operators is to include WiFi in the cost of rent, as opposed to charging extra for the service
- Adaptable amenity spaces allow operators to cater for the ever-changing needs of residents and the wider community to maximise usage
- Empowering site teams and drawing on their face-to-face experience with residents, as opposed to being prescriptive with how resident engagement strategies are employed, can deliver a better living experience
- Cost is a key factor that impacts renewal decisions, but more specifically value for money. This ongoing perceived value for money will be even more relevant once Renters’ Rights changes are introduced
- Vocal and public feedback is easier than ever for residents to give thanks to online platforms and communities, making proactive monitoring and fixing of issues so important
Connectivity Insights from the Building A True Home Report
- 93% of renters expect WiFi within days of moving in
- 77% say high-speed WiFi included in rent makes a property more attractive
- 84% would reconsider renewing their lease if the Internet service was poor
- 60% of renters weren’t told WiFi was included in rent during property viewings—highlighting a missed marketing opportunity
- 74% want site-wide connectivity, including amenity spaces
Download the Building A True Home report here.
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