Deposit alternative provider flatfair has signed a partnership with build-to-rent developer Placefirst,
Investment into build-to-rent hit a record high of £5.2bn in 2024 alone, highlighting the rising demand for purpose-built rental homes across the UK.
The detached or semi-detached homes which Placefirst focuses on, also known as single-family housing, has also rapidly emerged as a major part of the BTR sector – with Savills recording that in 2024, 51% of all BTR investment was into SFH.
Gary Wright, chief executive of flatfair, said: “We’re thrilled to partner with Placefirst, a forward-thinking developer whose focus aligns perfectly with our own commitment to making renting more affordable and secure for everyone involved.
“As a supply and demand imbalance continues to increase rental prices, traditional deposits grow increasingly burdensome for tenants, our No Deposit solution not only significantly reduces upfront moving costs but also provides landlords with double the protection of traditional deposits, ensuring peace of mind for all parties.”
flatfair’s No Deposit solution allows tenants to save an average of £1,291 in upfront costs.
Mark Hawley, operations director at Placefirst, said: “Our priority is making renting as simple and flexible as possible for our residents, and this partnership with flatfair helps us do just that. For some, finding the upfront cash for a deposit can be a challenge, and flatfair’s deposit-free alternative will make the moving process easier. It’s important that our customers have as much choice as possible.”
