Build to Rent boom sweeps overseas markets

Build to Rent (BTR) is emerging as a powerhouse for creating homes in the UK, United States, Australia and New Zealand, findings from Inventory Base reveal.

It says that while the UK continues to lead the BTR charge, with 1,824 new homes completed in the first quarter of 2025, boosting the total to 127,156 — a 15.8% rise from 109,847 in Q1 2024.

This steady climb underscores the sector’s enduring appeal in Britain; it’s also a growing sector across the Pacific.

Inventory Base points to New Zealand which, despite its modest population of 5.2 million, delivered 1,949 BTR homes by 30 April, a 34.5% year-on-year increase.

BTR is shaping markets

The firm’s operations director, Sián Hemming-Metcalfe, said: “Build to Rent is reshaping rental markets across continents.

“The sector’s growth reflects a fundamental shift in how people view renting, no longer a temporary step, but a lifestyle choice driven by flexibility, convenience and service quality.”

She added: “This shift brings new responsibilities for landlords and property managers.

“BTR residents expect a professional, customer-centric experience, supported by operational excellence, proactive maintenance and real-time responsiveness.”

Growing BTR overseas markets

The data also show Australia is also gaining ground, with 4,878 completions in 2024 and projections of 5,928 in 2025, reflecting a 21.5% increase.

In the US, the BTR sector is still small but growing steadily, with 5,200 homes completed in 2024, bringing the total to 39,000, a 15.4% annual uptick.

Even in Dubai, where the BTR market is in its infancy, early signs point to rapid growth.

The city’s expanding population and status as a global business hub are fuelling demand for rental properties, with government policies paving the way for BTR development.

Institutional investors, the firm notes, are also taking note, drawn by the promise of long-term residency and rising expatriate interest.