As cities like Birmingham continue to evolve, so do the expectations of those who live in them. Today’s sophisticated metropolitans aren’t simply looking for a place to call home or a roof over their head; they’re seeking a lifestyle of city centre living that offers convenience, luxury and security all in one. For these urban professionals, their city living environment must cater to their daily needs while supporting their wellbeing and complementing their busy careers.
The number of privately rented homes in the UK increased by 9% in the year to February 2024. With property prices set to continue rising, the demand for high-quality rental properties remains high – especially in prime city centre locations.
If you’re interested in property investment in Birmingham, Manchester, Sheffield or any other fast-growing city, this guide is for you. Read on to explore the key amenities that define the future of urban property investments, and why they’re essential for attracting top-tier tenants and ensuring a strong return on investment.
What is urban living?
Urban living is more than just residing in a city; it embodies a lifestyle shaped by the unique opportunities and challenges of metropolitan life. For today’s city-dwellers, urban living represents a blend of convenience, accessibility, and cultural richness at the heart of a fast-paced city.
Urban property lifestyle
For those looking into property investment in Birmingham or other high performing cities, understanding the importance of lifestyle amenities is crucial. They can transform a simple apartment into a luxurious, comfortable home, as part of an urban development that exemplifies and adds to the city lifestyle.
Select Property is now offering urban property development features like rooftop spaces, gardens, and landscaped terraces. Well-designed green spaces provide residents with a vital change of scenery and fresh air – the perfect setting to relax and unwind in. A building with pool and spa access will also have enormous appeal, creating a sense of luxury and indulgence that only the best developments can offer.
Beyond relaxation, these amenities are about fostering a sense of community, offering opportunities for residents to connect and socialise. The true value lies not just in creating them, but in activating them: turning them into vibrant, engaging, livable environments that bring real value to residents. The most successful developers understand the power of placemaking in build-to-rent property, with proven track records of delivering branded residences which bring these spaces to life.
Health and wellness
When considering property investment in Birmingham or Manchester, it’s important to note the rising demand for wellness-focused developments. Wellness is more of a priority than ever, and developments that cater to this need are in high demand. Tenants are often willing to pay a premium for access to state-of-the-art gyms and fitness studios that go beyond the basic offerings. Having spacious, well-equipped facilities right on their doorstep is seen as the ultimate in convenience, saving residents the cost of a separate gym membership – not to mention the travel time.
But it’s not just about the physical equipment. The presence of dedicated spaces for social activities like yoga and spin classes highlights the growing trend towards holistic wellness. These areas offer residents a way to de-stress, stay fit and connect with others who share similar goals and commitments. As more urban professionals prioritise wellness, properties that offer these benefits will continue to command premium rental prices and attract high-quality tenants. Among renters with higher budgets, there is a rising demand for luxury amenities like swimming pools and spa facilities. Almost completely sold out, One Port Street caters to this rising demand in the heart of Manchester city centre.
Career opportunities
Modern urban professionals seek homes that function as well-designed bases for working as well as living. This is reflected in the fact that access to high-speed WiFi is fast becoming one of the top priorities for renters.
Remote and hybrid roles are now the norm in most post-pandemic workplaces. To accommodate this new way of life, high-end developments are beginning to offer luxury co-working spaces, as well as bookable private dining rooms and outdoor event sites. These stylish and functional environments allow residents to be productive, hold meetings, network and collaborate with colleagues, without the need to leave their building.
Location is another key factor in supporting residents’ careers. Developments in prime city centre positions, such as Birmingham city centre or One Port Street in Manchester’s thriving Northern Quarter, stand out as smart investments in the future of urban living. With easy access to business districts, city amenities and transport links, tenants can maintain a flexible work-life balance – whether they’re working from home or commuting to the office.
Security and sustainability
In an urban environment, renters are increasingly drawn to build-to-rent developments offering advanced safety and security measures. Features such as CCTV surveillance in common areas, audio entry systems, smart locks and door fobs provide tenants with that all-important peace of mind.
24/7 concierge services are particularly appealing to modern city-dwellers. From handling deliveries and monitoring visitor access to addressing resident concerns, the concierge plays a crucial role in creating a secure, welcoming environment. This is a capital feature of our community-led residential brand, AffinityLiving.
But beyond their own safety and wellbeing, today’s working professionals are also showing increased concern for the planet. High-quality developments are responding by integrating modern sustainability features, such as energy-efficient LED lighting, smart thermostats and mechanical ventilation with heat recovery systems.
By combining robust security features with eco-conscious technology, property investors and developers can appeal to renters who prioritise personal safety and environmental responsibility alike – a truly holistic approach to city living in urban areas.
Innovative design and architecture
Innovation is at the forefront of urban property development, shaping the future of city living by creating spaces that are not only functional, but also aesthetically innovative. Today’s residents are drawn to developments that push the boundaries of traditional design, offering unique living environments.
One notable example is One Port Street in Manchester’s Northern Quarter, highlighting the growing trend towards integrating green spaces within urban environments. The Urban Garden at One Port Street will serve as an oasis in the heart of the city, while the interior spaces are designed with the modern resident in mind, a seamless blend of luxury and practicality.
These innovative features not only enhance the living experience but also contribute to the wellbeing of residents by offering spaces that promote relaxation and social interaction.
For property investors, such cutting-edge developments represent an opportunity to invest in projects that are setting new standards in urban living. The appeal of innovative design lies in its ability to attract tenants who value both style and substance, ensuring a strong and sustainable return on investment.
Invest in the future of urban living with Select Property
In the UK’s competitive rental market, premium amenities have become indispensable, setting top-tier build-to-let properties apart from the rest. As demand for modern features continues to rise, their contribution to generating a significant return on investment will only grow in the years to come helping you to achieve your investment goals.
Enter One Port Street: a new development that doesn’t just tick the boxes but defines new ones. This landmark project, located in Manchester’s iconic Northern Quarter, represents the future of luxury city living. With 477 luxury one, two and three-bedroom apartments, unparalleled wellness facilities, vibrant social spaces and cutting-edge design, One Port Street truly keeps pace with the modern lifestyle of Manchester’s renters. Just over the horizon, an upcoming development in Birmingham city centre is set to similarly redefine modern urban living in England’s vibrant Second City. At Select Property, we strive to develop the most exciting UK property investments shaped by people and place – and deliver the strongest rental returns for global investors. Contact us today to learn more about our new and upcoming projects in urban locations and discover how we can help maximise your return on investment.