Accommodation for Students: Property Opportunities in 2025

Capitalise on record student numbers and consistent demand for secure, managed accommodation.

Why Invest in Student Property?

  • Soaring Demand
    Record UCAS applications in 2024 and 88% of students choosing dedicated accommodation (NSAS 2025) keep occupancy rates high.

  • Attractive Returns
    Gross yields of 8%+ in prime locations, outperforming traditional buy-to-let investments.

  • Hassle-Free Investment
    Fully managed properties with professional tenant sourcing, maintenance, and rent collection.

  • Resilient Asset Class
    Student property remains stable through economic shifts, driven by consistent student demand.

Our eBook, "The Expat Property Playbook: 10 Steps to 10k per Month with UK Property" is a property investing guide that offers key strategies for success in the UK real estate market, including insights on local trends and guidance on legal and financial systems

How to Invest in Student Accommodation

1.Research High-Demand Locations

It helps to target university cities with strong student populations, such as Manchester, Birmingham or Leeds. Looking at key indicators like rental yields, occupancy rates and proximity to campuses will help you understand where the opportunity lies.

2. Choose the Right Property With Help from an Expert

Student halls of residence and traditional buy-to-let HMOs offer different benefits for investors.

At APW Group, we can help you source high-performing, vetted opportunities. Ensuring the property is compliant and aligned with your long term vision.

3. Finance & Hassle-Free Management

We can help you source a trusted mortgage advisor from a specialist lender. Understanding your suitability for a mortgage may take a number of weeks so it helps to start early to give your investment project the best chance for success. Get in touch with us today to set up a consultation.

About
APW Group

We simplify UK property investment with expert insights, data-driven strategies, and step-by-step guidance. Whether you're an expat, first-time buyer, or seasoned investor, our proven methods help you find high-yield opportunities, maximise rental income, and build long-term wealth in the UK property market.

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Welcome to our expert blog series where we break down the latest trends, data, and strategies in property investment.

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Is Student Accommodation a Good Investment?
Is Student Accommodation a Good Investment?

Student accommodation is emerging as one of the UK’s most resilient and rewarding property investment sectors. With rising student numbers, strong rental yields, and high occupancy rates in key university cities, it offers long-term income potential for investors seeking stable, hands-off opportunities.

What Is an HMO? A Guide for UK Student Landlords
What Is an HMO? A Guide for UK Student Landlords

If your rental will house multiple tenants under one roof, it may qualify as a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO). In this guide, we explain what counts as an HMO, when you need a licence, and what every student landlord should know before getting started.

How to Invest in Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA)
How to Invest in Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA)

Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) is a growing sector in the UK, offering fully managed, income-generating opportunities in top university cities. In this guide, we explore how to invest in PBSA — and why it’s becoming a popular choice for UK-based and expat investors alike.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do you need a HMO licence for students?

Yes, if you're letting a property to three or more unrelated students who share facilities, it typically qualifies as a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO). Most local councils require a licence, and some may have stricter rules under additional or selective licensing schemes.

Does student accommodation count as renting?

Yes, student accommodation is classified as rental property and is subject to tenancy regulations. Landlords must comply with legal standards like deposit protection, fire safety, and in many cases, HMO licensing.

Is student accommodation a good investment?

Yes, student accommodation can offer strong, consistent rental yields and high occupancy rates, especially in major university cities. With demand outpacing supply in many areas, it's a resilient sector that performs well even in economic downturns.

How much does it cost to build student accommodation?

Construction costs vary by location and spec but generally range from £1,200 to £2,000 per square metre. A typical PBSA development could cost £3–10 million+, depending on size, amenities, and planning conditions.

Can professionals live in student accommodation?

Typically, no — purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) is reserved exclusively for full-time students. However, in some HMO setups or mixed-use developments, young professionals may be allowed if local licensing permits.

Which city has the highest student population?

London has the highest student population in the UK, with over 300,000 students across multiple universities. Other strong contenders include Manchester, Birmingham, and Leeds, all of which offer attractive investment opportunities.