Placefirst

Placefirst, build-to-rent housing developer in the UK

Placefirst is a developer and urban regeneration specialist dedicated to the build-to-rent segment, with a growing portfolio of over 2,000 homes across the UK. Established in 2010, the company presents a proven track record in delivering high-quality rental homes and professional management. Its activity spans both new build and refurbishment, and includes single-family homes and apartments aimed at today's renter.

An integrated model: design, development, letting and management

The company controls the entire lifecycle of the property: it designs, builds, lets and manages its own developments. According to its approach, this vertical integration allows it to offer a simpler experience for the tenant and maintain safe and well-cared-for neighbourhoods. Each home is specifically designed for rent, with modern-specification kitchens and bathrooms, well-proportioned living spaces and a high level of energy efficiency. The company retains responsibility for the properties and has a resident services manager in each neighbourhood to handle any issues.

Neighbourhoods and featured developments

Placefirst groups its offer around planned neighbourhoods. Among the projects presented in detail on the website are:

• Bay Mill, Morecambe: its most recent development in the area, adding 42 homes to a local portfolio of 107, a short distance from the seafront.
• The Oaks, Esh Winning: a neighbourhood of 89 high-quality, energy-efficient homes in County Durham, combining rural living with access to the city.
• Priors Hall Park, Corby: a development designed to offer secure, high-quality rentals with sustainability and energy-efficiency criteria.

Tenant profile and rental conditions

The proposition is aimed at those seeking residential stability: the company offers extended stays for as long as the tenant wishes to remain in the home, with day-to-day management covered. Among the features it highlights in its offer are the possibility of living with pets, the presence of green spaces and ongoing maintenance of the homes. The company describes itself as a multi-award-winning build-to-rent provider.

Structure, team and community commitment

Placefirst has specialised in-house teams covering every stage of the process, from design to rental management. The company also runs corporate volunteering initiatives with communities and local authorities, collaborates with charities in its surroundings and maintains a dedicated resident services manager in each neighbourhood. It also publishes an independent report on the social impact of rental housing and its ESG commitment.

Recent activity

The company has announced a second development in collaboration with Strata to deliver 104 family homes in Nottingham, as part of strengthening its partnership.

Location and contact

Suite 7.1, Salford, M5 3EJ · Phone: +44 330 058 1905 · Email: lettings@placefirst.co.uk