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NEWS & INSIGHTS

Should You Invest in Supported Living in the UK?

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Are you considering investing in the property market but want to make a meaningful impact while enjoying attractive returns? If you’re an overseas investor, choosing to invest in supported living properties in the UK might be your golden opportunity. Yield Investing is your gateway to high-yielding property investments in the social housing sector. 

What Is Supported Living?

The primary goal of supported living is to provide a nurturing and safe environment where residents can enjoy a sense of independence while having easy access to essential care and support services. The supported living property market involves creating specialised housing arrangements for vulnerable people in the UK. Supported living tenants include:

  • Elderly Tenants: Our ageing population requires specialised care and support. Supported living offers a way for the elderly to maintain their independence while getting the care they need.
  • Disabled Tenants: Individuals with physical or intellectual disabilities benefit greatly from supported living. These homes are designed to be accessible and cater to specific mobility needs.
  • Tenants with Mental Health Challenges: Those struggling with mental health challenges can find a safe and supportive environment in supported living properties. It offers a structured setting that promotes well-being.

Supported housing is all about tailoring the property to meet the unique needs of its residents in order to give them independent lives. These properties are designed for accessibility and safety, providing an ideal living environment for those who require extra care.

Key Features of Supported Living

  1. Specialised Housing: Supported living properties are not your run-of-the-mill rental homes. They are purpose-built to accommodate individuals with specific needs. This means that residents can access amenities and features that promote their well-being and independence.
  2. On-site Support Services: A significant advantage of supported living is that residents can access on-site support services. This means that care and assistance are readily available whenever needed. From personal care to medical support, residents are never far from help.
  3. Personalised Care Plans: The beauty of supported living is that it recognises the unique requirements of each resident. Care providers create personalised care plans, considering individual needs and preferences. This level of personalisation ensures that residents receive the right support tailored just for them.

Benefits of Investing in Supported Living Properties

There are many benefits as an overseas investor when you decide to invest in supported living properties in the UK:

Higher Rental Income

Supported living properties often offer higher rental income than standard rental properties. This is because they provide specialised care services alongside accommodation. As an investor, this means a potentially more substantial return on your investment.

Demand for Quality Properties

There’s a growing demand for supported living properties in the UK. With an ageing population and an increased focus on supporting individuals with disabilities and mental health challenges, the need for such housing is rising. Investing in supported living allows you to tap into this stable and growing market.

Complimentary Maintenance and Property Management

Many supported living providers offer complete maintenance and property management services. This not only eases the burden on you as an investor but also ensures that the properties are well-kept and maintained, preserving their value and attractiveness to residents. At Yield Investing, all our developments are provided with free property and lettings management, meaning all aspects of managing the property, including tenant placement, rent collection, and property maintenance, are taken care of, ensuring a hassle-free experience for our investors.

Social Responsibility

Investing in supported living properties isn’t just about financial gain; it’s also about making a positive impact on communities. By providing safe and supportive housing for vulnerable individuals, you contribute to the well-being of your fellow citizens and create a positive community impact.

The reputation and reliability of the housing provider you choose are crucial. It’s essential to select a reputable provider that adheres to safety standards and offers quality care services. This not only ensures the well-being of the residents but also safeguards your investment.

If you are a seasoned property investor or are new to the game, choosing to invest in support living accommodation has the potential for income and capital. At Yield Investing, we create a mutually beneficial working relationship with our investors. Our responsibility to you is to ensure that the correct due diligence has been done and you have a reputable housing provider in place.

Investor Tip: The landscape of supported living is subject to regulatory changes and evolving standards. As an investor, it’s vital to stay informed about these changes and ensure your properties comply with the latest regulations. Failing to do so can lead to legal and financial issues.

Supported Living vs. Other Forms of Social Housing

It’s essential to differentiate between investing in social housing and supported living to understand where the investment opportunities lie. In the UK, you’ll come across various forms of social housing, each with its unique target audience and purpose.

Social Housing for Low-Income Individuals and Families

Supported living primarily caters to vulnerable individuals, while social housing is focused on providing housing for low-income households/homeless. The primary purpose of social housing is to ensure that those with limited financial means have access to homes.

Social Housing for Key Workers

Supported living is specialised housing that combines accommodation with care services, whereas social housing for key workers is aimed at essential workers such as nurses, teachers, and police officers. The focus of social housing is on offering suitable homes for those in vital roles in our communities. 

Transitional Housing for the Homeless

Supported living is a long-term solution that provides ongoing care and support, whereas transitional housing for the homeless is a short-term option for individuals experiencing homelessness. Transitional housing offers temporary accommodations and support as individuals work towards more stable living arrangements. Across the UK, individuals are being housed in hotels and Airbnb’s on nightly accommodation rates. Social housing offers longer-term solutions for these individuals at a much cheaper cost to the government. 

Differences Between Supported Living and Other Housing Types

DifferencesSupported Living Other Housing Types
Target Audience Focuses on vulnerable individuals, which enable them to live independentlyOther types of audiences, e.g. low-income families or key workers 
PurposeProvides housing with ongoing care and support Provides housing without on-site care and support 
Services and Amenities On-site care services tailored to the specific needs of residents Emphasise affordability without specialised support 
Build QualityDesigned with accessibility and safety in mind to meet the unique needs of residentsDesigned as an affordable way for people to access accommodation
Funding Can be funded through a mix of government money and private funding from social care budgets, healthcare programmes or charitable organisations. Usually fully funded or subsidised by the government. Can be managed by local councils, housing associations or private management companies. 

What is the typical return on investment for supported living properties?

The return on investment can vary, but supported living properties often offer attractive returns due to higher rental income with 8%+ NET yields. The exact ROI depends on factors like the location of the property, the quality of care services, and the demand in the area.

How can I ensure the safety and well-being of residents in supported living properties?

Ensuring the housing provider is reputable and complies with safety and rent regulations is crucial. Regular inspections and clear communication with residents can enhance safety. Always do your due diligence when selecting a housing provider.

How can I find suitable properties for supported living investments?

Consult with real estate professionals such as Yield Investing, who have expertise in the supported living sector. Networking with housing providers and exploring property listings is a great way to identify suitable properties for investment.

What are the legal requirements for setting up a supported living property?

The legal requirements for setting up a supported living property can vary depending on location and the specific needs of the residents you plan to serve. It’s advisable to consult with legal experts and relevant authorities to ensure compliance with all regulations and standards.

Invest in Supported Living with Yield Investing

When you invest in supported living properties in the UK, you gain a promising opportunity with the potential for attractive financial returns and ethical property investment that has a significant positive impact on communities. Supported living caters to vulnerable individuals, providing them with a safe and supportive living environment while offering investors a chance to contribute to this noble cause.

At Yield Investing, we are here to guide you through the process, offering hands-free, high-yield property investments in the supported living and social housing sector. Whether you’re already a property investor or are looking to branch into property investment, we have a proven track record of expertise and resources to help you make the most of this exciting opportunity.

Investing in supported living is not just about financial gain; it’s about creating a positive impact on society. We encourage you to explore your options, seek professional advice, and consider the tremendous potential of investing in supported living properties in the UK. If you’re interested in learning more or have questions, get in touch with Yield Investing today for additional information and resources. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of vulnerable individuals while securing your financial future.

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