Build-To-Rent
WHAT IS BUILD-TO-RENT?
Build-to-rent (BTR) homes are purpose-built for renters – designed, built, and professionally managed from day one.
Unlike buy-to-let, where a private landlord can sell up or evict with limited notice, build-to-rent properties are owned and operated long-term by specialist landlords. Your home isn’t a side investment for someone else – it’s our core business. That means higher standards, consistent service, and the stability to actually put down roots.
Simple Life Homes is one of the UK’s longest-established build-to-rent operators, with over 5,500 homes across 30+ neighbourhoods – predominantly in Northwest England, including Greater Manchester, Warrington, Wigan, and beyond.
The Renters’ Rights Act 2025 – now in force – marks the biggest overhaul of the private rental sector in a generation. No more rental bidding wars. Stronger rights on pets. Clearer rules on rent increases.
At Simple Life, none of this comes as a surprise – it’s how we’ve always operated. Transparent pricing, professional management, and a genuine long-term commitment to our residents. The Act raises the floor for the whole rental sector. We’ve been above it for years.
The Renters’ Rights Act 2025 – now in force – marks the biggest overhaul of the private rental sector in a generation. No more rental bidding wars. Stronger rights on pets. Clearer rules on rent increases.
At Simple Life, none of this comes as a surprise – it’s how we’ve always operated. Transparent pricing, professional management, and a genuine long-term commitment to our residents. The Act raises the floor for the whole rental sector. We’ve been above it for years.
Build-to-Rent Homes Across the UK
Simple Life Homes is one of the UK's longest-established and most respected build-to-rent providers, with over 5,500 homes across 26+ neighbourhoods. Our properties are strategically located in suburban areas with strong transport links, good schools, and easy access to work and leisure - creating welcoming communities that people are proud to call home. Find a neighbourhood near you
KEY REASONS TO CHOOSE BTR
FIND YOUR SIMPLE LIFE HOME
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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How big is the build-to-rent market in the UK?
Build-to-rent is one of the fastest-growing sectors in the UK housing market, driven by strong demand for high-quality, professionally managed rental homes. As the sector grows, renters have more choice — better homes, better locations, better service.
Simple Life Homes is one of the UK’s longest-established BTR providers. With over 5,500 homes across 30+ neighbourhoods, we have the scale and experience to deliver consistently high standards. Our commitment to residents has earned us multiple industry awards and consistently strong ratings on HomeViews & TrustPilot
Ready to find your next home, apply for a Simple Life build-to-rent property today.
Who lives in build-to-rent homes in the UK?
Build-to-rent is for anyone looking for a high-quality home to rent — whether you’re a young professional, a growing family, downsizing, or somewhere in between. Providing applicants meet our criteria, we welcome applications from:
- Full-time and part-time professionals
- Self-employed or zero-hours contract workers
- Universal Credit recipients
- Students with a guarantor
- Independent means residents
- Retirees
- Overseas applicants
Our homes are pet-friendly too — dogs, cats, rabbits and more are all welcome. Find out about our pet policy
Take a look at how to apply to learn more.
What is the build-to-rent model UK?
The build-to-rent model in the UK is to provide an alternative housing solution to those who are looking for high-spec homes, specifically new build houses and apartments. The standard of living that built-to-rent provides allows residents to put roots down in quality homes, whether you’re on the way to home ownership or enjoying the freedom of not having a mortgage.
With professional service from property management teams, build-to-rent aims to provide a first-rate rental experience. These excellent quality homes have longer term tenancies and are often located in larger towns and cities, making them desirable to a large demographic of people.
What is the difference between build-to-rent and buy-to-let?
Build-to-rent means a property was built specifically to be rented out, owned and managed by a professional operator. Multiple homes on the development is for rent, so you share a community with like-minded neighbours.
Buy-to-let means a private landlord or investor has purchased a property – often through a letting agent – to rent out. These homes may be sold at any time, creating uncertainty for residents.
Does build-to-rent include bills?
Typically, build-to-rent rents do not include utility bills – residents set up their own gas, electricity, and broadband providers. At Simple Life, professional maintenance is included as part of your tenancy, with 24/7 access to our maintenance team. Residents also get access to the My Simple Life app, which includes exclusive deals and discounts to help reduce the cost of living.
Is build-to-rent worth it?
Yes, build-to-rent is an excellent option for those who want to rent beautiful homes in convenient locations and welcoming communities.
At Simple Life Homes, we genuinely care about looking after the needs of our residents. When you choose Simple Life Homes, you benefit from a landlord who aims to provide total peace of mind to residents, safe in the knowledge their home will be looked after.
We offer flexibility in our leasing options, and residents can stay for as long as our homes suit their needs, so our homes are perfect for those who are looking to lay down roots long-term.
Our homes are more energy efficient than older properties. In fact, our homes are 25% cheaper to run annually*, and our interiors are well thought-out and provide the right level of space whether someone is renting alone or catering for a big family.
We have a customer service line that’s available to residents 24/7 and an in-house maintenance team should you need our support.
We choose to develop in popular locations too, ensuring our build-to-rent properties are close to amenities, transportation links and schools.
Our residents also have access to the ‘My Simple Life’ app, giving them access to important tenancy documents and manuals, whilst staying up-to-date with resident news, gaining access to exclusive offers and staying in touch with those in their local community.
*Stats as published in the Simple Lifes energy modelling study
How does build-to-rent work – What’s the applicaton process?
Found a home you love? Here’s how it works:
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- Check availability and enquire directly — many homes can be reserved before they’re complete
- Complete an application and provide references
- Confirm your tenancy and move in
You can learn more about fees, including refundable holding deposits here.
Get in touch if you’re ready to start your rental application.
Where are Simple Life build-to-rent homes?
Our 30+ neighbourhoods are located across Northwest, NorthEast, SouthWest, SouthEast, West Midlands, East Midlands and Scotland — with further locations across the UK. All are strategically positioned close to transport links, schools, and local amenities.
Browse our neighbourhoods now!
