PODCAST: Living and Politics

In this podcast, Adam Challis, UK Head of Research and Strategy quizzes JLL’s Living Capital Markets sector specialists on the challenges and opportunities in the living investment space, including build-to-rent, co-living, student housing, and healthcare sectors. They highlight the need for government support in addressing issues such as planning regulations, staff availability, land availability, and development costs to facilitate investment in these sectors.

The sector specialists emphasise the pent-up demand from investors for residential properties that are income producing and highlight the challenges faced by developers in the current financial and political environment. They stress the need for improvements in the planning system to streamline the consent process for build-to-rent and other residential opportunities.

In the later living sector, Verity discusses the increasing demand for housing suitable for the aging population and the shortage of supply in the UK. They mention the need for sector-specific legislation to address challenges in integrated retirement communities and care home markets. She also highlights the potential of technology to aid in independent living and improve the quality of life for older populations.

The podcast also touches upon the challenges and opportunities in the student accommodation sector, including supply challenges and viability concerns. Huw head emphasises the importance of providing affordable mid-market accommodation for students and the potential role of technology in enhancing the student living experience.

Overall, the speakers discuss the role of sustainability and ESG (environmental, social, and governance) considerations in the living sectors. They highlight the need for proactive measures to address sustainability issues, including retrofitting existing properties and incorporating green credentials in new developments. They also discuss the importance of strong governance and regulation in the healthcare and living sectors.

The speakers point out the potential for investment opportunities in existing stock, such as refurbishment and re-imagining of older properties in low-reference areas. They discuss the importance of integration across demographic groups and the need for further collaboration between investors and developers in the living investment space.

Listen to the podcast to find out more.