Unlocking Insights: A Deep Dive into the Preferences of UK Tenants

Eve Thomson • Aug 24, 2023

UK Tenant Insights & Preferences

In a recent comprehensive survey conducted by JLL, 1,400 residents from across the UK shared their perspectives on various aspects of their living arrangements, preferences, and what they value most in their homes. Here's an exploration of the key findings that shed light on the evolving landscape of UK tenant preferences:


Getting to Know UK Tenants:


The survey covered a diverse group of UK residents, with 47% residing in the bustling metropolis of London and 53% spread across the rest of the country. The vast majority of the survey participants were under the age of 45 (89%), highlighting the prominence of younger demographics in the rental market.


When it came to living arrangements, 73% of respondents either lived alone or with a partner. Furthermore, a substantial 71% of respondents didn't own a vehicle, with an even higher percentage of 81% in London opting for alternative modes of transportation.


The Moving Landscape:


The survey revealed that 42% of tenants were contemplating a move within the next year, with an additional 28% considering a move within the next two years.


Interestingly, a significant 64% expressed their intention to continue renting with their next property, while 26% were exploring the possibility of homeownership.


Motivating factors for these moves included aspirations to buy a property, seek better locations or neighbourhoods, career or educational changes, the need for more spacious accommodations, and the quest for more affordable living.


The Energy Efficiency Imperative:


In today's environmentally conscious world, a remarkable 76% of respondents indicated that energy efficiency had become increasingly important in their housing choices compared to the previous year.


Looking ahead, a resounding 90% affirmed that energy efficiency would be a pivotal factor in deciding their next dwelling.

The driving force behind this focus on energy efficiency was primarily economic, with 69% citing the desire to save on energy bills, followed closely by 28% who aimed to reduce their carbon footprint.


Notably, newer homes lead the way in energy efficiency, with the ONS reporting an impressive 85% achieving the highest energy efficiency levels, denoted as EPC A or B. In contrast, just 4% of older homes managed to attain this status.


Interestingly, only 1% of tenants enjoyed the benefit of having their bills included in their rent, despite Rightmove reporting that inclusive bills are a rising priority and one of the top searches for those seeking for somewhere to live on the property search portal. 

The Rise of Flexible Working:


The survey also highlighted the evolving nature of work, with 70% of respondents indicating that they worked from home at least one day a week. A significant 72% balanced their work between home and office. Meanwhile, 28% of tenants still adhered to the traditional full-time in-office work model.


Amenities Aplenty:


The survey examined the usage of various amenities offered by residential properties, revealing intriguing insights:


  • Gym: 81% use the gym either regularly or occasionally
  • Pool: 66% used the swimming pool regularly or occasionally
  • Communal Lounge: 63% used the residents lounge regularly or occasionally
  • Co Working: 54% used the co working space regularly or occasionally
  • Roof Terrace: 62% used the roof terrace regularly or occasionally
  • Private Dining: 50% used the private dining space regularly or occasionally
  • Cinema: 52% used the cinema regularly or occasionally


Other Living Considerations:


When it comes to selecting their next home, a staggering 93% of tenants deemed broadband speed as very important.

The local neighbourhood and surroundings were paramount to 98% of respondents, profoundly impacting their well-being and overall happiness.


Convenience reigned supreme, with 92% emphasising the importance of proximity to transportation.


Retail therapy and leisure pursuits held sway over 84%, who insisted on being within easy reach of shops and entertainment.

Having an outdoor area nearby was also desired, as 81% expressed a preference for residing near a park or green space.


The quality of pubs and restaurants also mattered to 70% of respondents.


Lastly, 59% sought a sense of community, and 52% wished to remain close to family and friends.


These findings provide a fascinating glimpse into the evolving landscape of tenant preferences in the UK, offering valuable insights for renters, real estate agents, co living/BTR property developers and operators as they navigate the changing tides of housing and living expectations.

14 Aug, 2023
Savills have reported that England witnessed a decrease of approximately 25,000 new homes in the past year compared to the previous year. This decline in new home construction raises concerns about supply and demand.
04 Aug, 2023
Given that just over 8000 new senior living units were created in 2022, at the current rate there would be a shortfall of over 700,000 by 2040.
24 Jul, 2023
Rightmove’s data from Q1 2023 indicates the prevailing mismatch between supply and demand will continue in the UK due to the lack of expected new rental properties to come on the market.
By Eve Thomson 26 Jun, 2023
The multi-use scheme will be the first-of-its-kind in the area. Kosy Co Living aims to provide a dynamic and sustainable living experience, incorporating co working spaces, new and improved retail and workshop units for the existing businesses, and significant enhancements to two key public underpasses connecting Wells Road with the City Centre.
By Eve Thomson 30 May, 2023
Since the coronavirus pandemic, activity within the Co Living sector has experienced a significant increase, more than doubling in size.
By Eve Thomson 02 May, 2023
Q&A with Kosy Living's 3D Visualiser, Denizhan Olmez. Learn how he became an architectural visualiser, what he enjoys about his work, the benefits of 3D visualisation and tips for anyone considering it as a career...
By Eve Thomson 17 Apr, 2023
In Q1 2023, investment in UK Build-to-Rent has surpassed £1.1 billion, indicating that investors are keen to explore opportunities in the sector due to the rising demand for rentals.
By Eve Thomson 04 Apr, 2023
Are you looking to rent a property? If so, you'll want to make sure you're taking all the necessary steps to find the perfect place for you...
By Eve Thomson 29 Mar, 2023
The number of properties available to rent in the UK has dropped by a third over the past 18 months. The BBC have reported that people are finding it difficult to find a rental property due to huge demand and competition with other property searchers.
22 Mar, 2023
There are now almost 2.2 million university students in full-time education in the UK (an 8% increase from 2021). However, there continues to be a shortfall of student beds. Read More >>
More Posts
Share by: