After a fantastic couple of days on the UKAA Study Tour in Leeds, Toni Waites, ASK4’s BTR Client Relationship Director, reflects on the learnings gained during her time at the event.
As managed Internet providers to the multi-tenant sector, ASK4 prides itself on not only striving to develop a deep understanding of the sectors and residents we serve, but also looking ahead at how the industry is likely to change, and which providers are at the forefront of innovation.
The UKAA Study Tour I attended on behalf of ASK4 provided lots of insight into the build-to-rent sector and profiled some of the most unique and exciting developments in Leeds. It was great to see these impressive and forward-thinking BTR developments up close, as well as being able to engage in interesting discussions with operators, architects and suppliers to get to a picture of how BTR is evolving.
Here are 5 key themes that emerged at the event that ASK4 will be keeping a close eye on...
1. Residents build emotional bonds with BTR homes
The study tour provided a firsthand look at the emotional connections residents forge with their BTR homes, where residents are not only finding a place to live, but a community to belong to. One example that particularly stuck with me, was that of a couple that had met while renting at the development but then had left. They loved living there so much and had developed such a connection to the place that they ended up waiting until their old apartment became vacant for them to return to and make it their permanent home – something that highlighted the appeal for many people of living in BTR properties.
2. Operators are nurturing community and providing interactive spaces
A strong sense of community was palpable at many of the sites we visited, with residents forming genuine connections with each other. At one development, residents felt so at home in the communal spaces that they had become an extension of their private living rooms, with groups of pyjama-clad residents gathering to socialise! This site also utilised interactive message boards within each apartment, enabling residents not only to see the latest updates from their resident teams, but also message each other directly and chat with reception/concierge.
3. Versatility in amenity spaces is becoming more valuable
The importance of versatile amenity spaces emerged as a key theme, challenging the traditional notion of fixed-function spaces. The tour showcased more general areas that could seamlessly transition from hosting cinema nights to yoga classes (or even dog fashion shows)! This flexibility contributes to a dynamic and vibrant community, and also results in amenity spaces being utilised more frequently and in creative and interactive ways by residents.
4. Staff engagement = Resident satisfaction
A significant realization for me was the role played by on-site staff has in fostering positive resident experiences. One site introduced us to their resident manager who not only knew residents by name, but created an environment where engagement and positivity were paramount. A discussion was sparked among attendees about the ripple effect that staff satisfaction and engagement must have on resident contentment, and how likely that was to result in stronger bonds being formed between residents and their living environment.
5. There is an increasing focus on wellness
The tour shed light on the growing emphasis on wellness amenities, with some operators offering separate fitness and wellness studios. At a time where being able to work from home is important to residents of BTR, the inclusion of on-site, dedicated gyms and wellness studios adds an extra layer of convenience and attractiveness for residents.
From emotional connections to community dynamics, versatility in amenities, and the significance of staff satisfaction, it’s easy to see how all of these elements could serve as a roadmap for shaping BTR communities that residents can proudly call home.
While there might be a blueprint for how to serve residents and give them the amenities they need, it’s clear that building unique communities and creating a welcoming, tailored and flexible environment is what will make BTR developments successful.
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Toni Waites is ASK4’s Client Relationship Director – BTR, and works closely with clients to deliver connectivity and technology solutions in BTR developments to help create integrated homes and communities, with residents in mind.
If you’d like to discuss your upcoming BTR project and technology requirements, you can book a meeting with Toni using the link below.
