A new breed of student accommodation answers increasing international students’ demands

by Kate United Kingdom Collegiate

Number of international students studying in UK increases 57% in 10 years (CBRE)
EU applicants increase 4.5%, non-EU increase 5.7% in 2014 (UCAS)
International students demand higher quality accommodation with additional facilities (Collegiate AC)

The UK is the second most popular destination worldwide for internationally mobile students, according to the UNESCO Institute for Statistics. Outpaced only by the US, which edged ahead with the lion’s share, and given its relative size, the European counterpart is steaming ahead – and increasingly so.

Over the course of the last 10 years, the number of international students arriving to study in the UK has grown by 57%, a huge increase formed by 68.7% additional students from the EU and a 32.4% increase in non-EU students, according to figures from CBRE. And with a 4.5% increase in applicants to UK courses from EU students in 2014, and a 5.7% increase in applicants from outside the EU, according to UCAS, it is clear to see that the appetite for securing a UK university education is unerring.

As a world-renowned destination for higher education studies, combined with the historical attractiveness of many of the United Kingdom’s university institutions who do not simply offer some of the best facilities and teaching in the world but also the prestige associated with a centuries-old tradition of further study, it is not surprising that more and more international students are settling in the UK. Yet, whilst the education system may serve to provide everything and more for an overseas student looking for a solid higher education, until recently the housing market sadly did not.

Known for its somewhat tired, often cramped property offerings, the UK student accommodation sector is seriously lacking and certainly does nothing to support students. Heriberto Cuanalo, CEO of Collegiate AC explains why this often presents a particular challenge for an international student,

“The evolution from home-life to a new life of living and studying abroad, is often difficult. Filled with the tribulations of making new friends, adjusting to life in a foreign country, finding out where all the best places to visit in the new city are, and making the very most of study time, the transition to an overseas university education can be overwhelming for many.

“This is where a student property can make or break a living experience and where a high-quality home can ease not just the transition to university life in the UK but also sustain a long-term enjoyable and successful university career.”

In relatively recent times the infamous run-down student ‘digs’ have begun to change for the better, with the bringing to market of a new breed of student property. Companies such as Collegiate AC, at the leading edge of student accommodation provision, provide an array of luxurious properties that offer a wide range of additional facilities to support not only study but also student living.

Facilities such as on-site gyms, private cinemas, laundry rooms and luxury lounges, mean that easing into a new social situation is trouble-free, meaning making friends is easier and settling into a new living arrangement is painless, especially important for international students who are often away from home for the first time. Alongside this, free Wi-Fi and ergonomically-designed study spaces mean that learning is wholly supported and students are able to make the very most of their time.

In addition to this, 24-hour security makes properties safe and offers a high level of reassurance to families at home, again a key reason why Collegiate AC properties are extremely popular with the international student market.

Offering a wide range of accommodation throughout some of the UK’s finest university cities, including Birmingham, Leeds, London, Southampton, Liverpool, Exeter and Edinburgh, Collegiate AC offers peace of mind, beautiful interiors and some of the best student properties the UK has to offer. The perfect accommodation solution for today’s internationally mobile student.

For more information, visit www.collegiate-ac.com or contact Collegiate on 01235 250 140.

Work out wonder homes

by Viv United Kingdom Barton Wyatt

Wearable tech for health and fitness is set to explode in 2015
Research specialist say 6.7 million adults currently measure fitness using technology and that could double in 2015 (Kantar)
78% of property buyers in Virginia Water are after space for a home gymnasium (Barton Wyatt)

Zumba, Fitbit and TRX are all words that have become part of the daily dialect for many. The UK’s ever changing vocabulary is including more words that have originated from the sports world as people become fixated with bettering their physique and improving their diet.

High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) became the number one fitness trend in 2014 according to the annual survey conducted by the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM). It was perfect for busy people who wanted a fast and challenging workout that delivered results. The survey predicts it will rank second in 2015.

Taking the coveted number 1 spot this year will be body weight training according to the ACSM. A perfect work out which can be done in small spaces and uses your own body weight as a cantilever rendering expensive monthly gym memberships redundant.

Wearable technology has also become one of the latest fads on the fitness market. Wristbands that measure calories, steps, heart beat and can also let you know if you had a good night sleep complete existing smartphone technology syncing your daily exercise and overall health. A recent study by market research group Kantar are projecting that the ‘wearable tech’ market in the UK could jump to 13.1 million users in 2015 (over double the current number at 6.7 million).

The launch of the Apple Watch will undoubtedly help to achieve this figure. Apple Watch gives the wearer a complete picture of their all-day activity. The activity app show the daily progress and help motivate you to sit less, move more and get some exercise. It’s also an advanced sports watch, giving you real-time stats for a variety of the most popular workouts. Over time, Apple Watch learns the owner’s activity and fitness levels thus enabling it to suggest personalised goals. It even provides custom reminders to encourage you to achieve them.

Property guru and estate agent James Wyatt, Partner of Barton Wyatt in Surrey, is at the forefront of selling homes to buyers with health and fitness foremost in their minds, he comments,

“Having watched my friends and associates being lured into the wearable technology world, I find myself following! I have to admit I was tempted by this Apple watch but I have gone for the more affordable Fitbit to see how I do with that before weighing out for a pricey watch!”

“It appears that the average property purchaser in patch of Surrey is very keen on keeping healthy too. Most of our buyers are after substantial family homes and they want the house to have or have the potential room for a multi-gym. These gyms are not all flamboyant – some are small rooms with a handful of weights – others have lots of expensive equipment. One thing they virtually all have though is a large flat screen television linked to the internet!”

With the help of the internet and platforms such as YouTube it’s never been an easier time to get fit and remain motivated. The number of online workout videos and tech-platforms that can track your progress, offer advice and allow you to connect with your fitness pals is growing at an alarming rate. Slipping into some Lycra and popping on a Jane Fonda VHS is a thing of the past – today you can download an Insanity Fast & Furious 20-Minute Workout and off you go!

James goes on to comment about how buyers’ needs have changed in recent years,

“30 years ago no one ever asked for a gym in their home, we had the odd request for a massage room or a swimming pool but it wasn’t common. Today fibre optic broadband, wall to ceiling mirrors and in the most luxurious gyms – a sprung floor – have almost become as essential as a walk-in wardrobe. The wonderful thing is that most ‘fitness’ rooms can be retro-introduced into a house. It’s only a sports complex in the basement that needs heavy duty planning.”

Indeed Personal Trainers and private Pilates instructors are a highly sought after accessory in the depths of North Surrey. Paying as much as £75 per hour for the luxury of a home trainer who will help to keep your motivation going to achieve the ultimate bendy body.

Wyatt laughs:

“It used to be essential to have a Range Rover and a pony – now the locals compete over the best Personal Trainers how many times a week you can fit in a Pilates class. I have to be honest I have tried it myself and I definitely feel more flexible after an hour!

“Many of the homes we sell have fully kitted gymnasiums, these are perfect for your PT session or just to de-stress after work – which is what I generally use it for. Half an hour of breaking into a sweat and watching the news helps to take your mind off work.

“Some of our clients have gone the extra mile fitting instant iced water dispensers, wrap around mirrors, ballet bars and surround sound systems to their gyms. In the more extravagant homes around here you will find large underground swimming pools with Jacuzzi, steam rooms, saunas and even changing rooms!”

For those looking to complement their home fitness outdoors then Virginia water in North Surrey is the perfect place. The notable Wentworth Club, a timeless golfing haven, has welcomed numerous great sporting members over the years with the tennis courts, state of the art gymnasium and swimming hugely popular with local residents.

On the Market:

Below is a selection of properties on the market in North Surrey perfect for buyers looking for a sporting haven:

Wilton, Wentworth Estate, Virginia Water £4,950,000

A magnificent family home built to an exceptional specification and finish, superbly situated on an elevated site at the end of Woodlands Road East, a prestigious and sought after road within the

Wilton has been designed for a contemporary family lifestyle with a stunning kitchen/breakfast/family room area with doors opening onto the delightful gardens. The more formal ground floor reception rooms are of elegant proportions and enjoy tall ceilings and windows, light being a theme throughout the house.

There is also a large gymnasium on the ground floor which is air conditioned as is the master bedroom and kitchen/family room. A link between the gymnasium and the main house has a secondary staircase giving access to the rear landing of the house as well as the staff flat over the large three car garage. The flat also has the ability to be completely independent with its own staircase and front door.

Upstairs over two floors is the enormous master bedroom suite, four further en-suite bedrooms and another two bedrooms which share a bathroom

The house enjoys a secluded garden facing east at the rear and amounts to approximately 0.75 of an acre in all.

Broomfield House, Windlesham £4,350,000

This magnificent family house features an incredible array of modern day living. A CAT 5 integrated request audio system with speakers through out many rooms, in intercom facility throughout the house, security cameras and a state –of- the art Rako mood lighting system.

The accommodation comprises a fabulous kitchen which was featured in Beautiful Kitchens in May 2009 and utility room. An impressive entrance hall with marbled flooring and chandelier leads to a further six reception rooms include a study and conservatory. The master bedroom includes en-suite and dressing room, four further bedrooms (2 en-suite), a further family bathroom.

The recreation area includes a multi gym, a pool and jacuzzi. There is a steam room and shower plus separate changing rooms. A custom built bar area which has access onto a terrace via 10m fully retractable glass doors.

The property also includes a detached triple garage block with staff flat above. The flat includes a private entrance, kitchen, living area, bedroom and bathroom.

Grounds extend to approximately 1.7 acres including a tennis court.

Crossland House, Virginia Water £1,100,000, £1,495,000 AND £2,000,000

Currently Barton Wyatt have three homes available on Virginia Park. Crossland House is a stunning Grade I listed centrepiece of Virginia Park which is a prestigious gated development with extensive communal leisure facilities.

For sales is a detached house built when the site was redeveloped and two large properties which are set within the main house.

The communal facilities in Virginia Park are extensive and include 24 hour manned security at the gate, a superb indoor swimming pool complex with hammer beam ceiling, a gym, converted sports hall chapel, tennis court and communal grounds.

For more details contact Barton Wyatt on 01344 843000 or visit www.bartonwyatt.co.uk.

Holiday homes for mums – make relaxation the ultimate Mothers’ Day gift

by Louise Italy Portugal United Kingdom Appassionata, Barton Wyatt, Ideal Homes Portugal

Number of working mothers increases by a fifth in a single generation (ONS)
Just 1 in 10 women stays at home after having children (ONS)
Relaxation provides the perfect present for mums this Mothers’ Day

Mums do it all these days. Since 1996 the number of working mothers has leapt by almost 800,000, to a total of 5.3 million according to a study by the Office for National Statistics (ONS). The figures show that the number of women in the workplace with dependent children has leapt by almost a fifth in just one generation.

The change is partly thanks to government initiatives to encourage single mothers to work, but even the number of non-single mothers who work has jumped by 10% since 1996. ONS data shows that just 10% of women now stay at home after having children.

Though many mothers feel guilty about leaving their offspring in order to work, successive studies have shown that the impact on children is actually a positive one. The latest, from economics professor Silvia Mendolia at Australia’s University of Wollongong, has shown that children of women working more than 35 hours per week are actually more likely to pursue higher education.

The pressure is certainly on for mums to achieve it all and balancing fulltime work and childcare responsibilities is without question a tiring feat. So, this Mothers’ Day, make relaxation the ultimate gift, as working mum Dawn Cavanagh-Hobbs of luxury fractional ownership company Appassionata explains,

“I feel lucky that my business allows me to balance time with my children and grandchildren, but not all mums have the flexibility to do so. Demanding careers and parental responsibilities can be exhausting and I know so many mothers who are lucky if they even get five minutes to themselves during the day. It means that the times when they do get to relax are so important.”

And what better way to relax than on a holiday in the sunshine? Appassionata’s latest fractional ownership holiday home, Casa Tre Archi, is perfectly located for families with young children who want to experience life in Italy while having everything on hand that they might need. Owner Chris Everard was delighted with how beautifully the house had been set up when he visited recently with his daughter and brand new granddaughter,

“The thoughtfulness, unrestricted kindness and generosity of spirit displayed by the Appassionata team in the setting up of a beautiful new baby’s cot, a selection of mats, toys and baby equipment was a true act of empathy and kindness.”

For mums with older offspring who might like to relax on the golf course with their family this Mothers’ Day, Portugal offers an ideal destination. Caroline May of boutique estate agency Ideal Homes Portugal comments,

“Portugal’s Algarve region is home to some stunning golf courses and many women who holiday here enjoy a round in the sunshine with friends and family members. It’s a great way to relax, socialise and stay fit at the same time.”

As Cascatas, at Vilamoura, is particularly keen to attract lady golfers and specialises in breaks for them, describing itself as “one of the Algarve’s most female friendly golf resorts.” For those who prefer being pampered, it also has the largest spa in the Algarve. The Vilamoura area offers holiday accommodation to suit every mother’s tastes, from a newly renovated apartment with communal pool priced at €120,000 to a majestic, five bedroom villa with its own pool for €1,575,000.

Mothers returning to the UK after their holidays need not despair that their fun is over. Prime Surrey estate agency Barton Wyatt specialises in properties that have luxury features that mothers can enjoy. Wilton, on the Wentworth Estate in Virginia Water, Surrey, for example is a superb seven bedroom family home, which comes with a large gymnasium on the ground floor – perfect for shedding those post-pregnancy pounds. It also has a staff flat over the three-car garage, which is ideal for a nanny, ensuring that mum has all the help she needs just a stone’s throw away. This fantastic property is priced at £4,950,000.

James Wyatt, Partner of Barton Wyatt comments,

“Mothers are finding themselves more and more pushed in terms of their time commitments these days, so a house like Wilton is the ideal solution. The on-site gym is perfect for mums who want to keep in shape, while just a short walk away is Virginia Water with its spas, salons and boutique stores. Relaxation really is at a premium in the modern world and I’m sure mothers around the country will be delighted to enjoy it as the ultimate Mothers’ Day gift.”

For more information please contact:

Appassionata: +39 33154 13225 or www.appassionata.com

Ideal Homes Portugal: +44 800 133 7644 or +351 289 513 434 or www.idealhomesportugal.com

Barton Wyatt: 01344 843 000 or visit www.bartonwyatt.co.uk

UK buy-to-let sector braces for surge in silver landlords as pension freedom day approaches

by Louise United Kingdom Property Frontiers

54% of people see property as a better investment than a pension (Property Moose)
16% of those taking their entire pension pot plan to put it into property (Hargreaves Lansdown)
Liverpool buy-to-let property available to silver landlords from just £64,950 (Property Frontiers)

As March marches onward pensions freedom day is drawing ever closer and the UK buy-to-let sector is tingling in anticipation of a surge of silver landlords ready to put their pensions into property. The pension reforms due to come into force on 6 April 2015 will represent the biggest shakeup to the way retirees manage their future for decades.

While nobody can say for sure what the impact of pensions freedom day will be, indications are that around 200,000 individuals are planning to cash in their entire pension pot, according to Hargreaves Lansdown. Some 21% intend to spend their hard earned savings on a holiday, while 13% plan to pay off debts and 12% will use the money for home improvements.

Around 16% plan to reinvest in property, with the UK’s already booming buy-to-let market looking like a tempting prospect for many of those who are new to property investment.

The timing of pensions freedom day could not be better for those wishing to become silver landlords. A survey published by Property Moose last year found that 54% of respondents felt that residential property was a better investment option than a pension, versus 11% who saw a pension as the better option. Now, that 54% have the chance to put their opinions into practice.

Ray Withers, Chief Executive of specialist property investment company Property Frontiers, is looking forward to April with anticipation. He comments,

“It’s excellent news that the UK’s pension holders are finally being given the freedom to spend their life savings as they see fit. Too many have been trapped in annuities over the years that mean they have to spend their retirement watching every penny. Now, retirees can choose to make their money work for them however they wish and the UK’s buy-to-let sector looks certain to be one of the beneficiaries of the situation.”

Buy-to-let opportunities in and around London are in abundance, but many pensioners may not be able to afford the price premium that the capital commands, or may wish to spread their funds across several lower priced properties rather than just one in London. For these buyers, the UK’s second tier cities provide some excellent opportunities.

In Liverpool luxury apartments in the sought after L1 postcode area of the city centre can be snapped up from £64,950. Property Frontiers is offering 91 studio suites and one bedroom apartments in the iconic former Reeces Ballroom building (where John Lennon held his wedding reception), in a fully managed investment opportunity with 6% net yield assured for five years.

In Belfast, where brisk market conditions saw price rises of 4.9% in the past year according to ONS figures, buy-to-let properties in the strategically located development at The Sandford can be had from just £108,100. With Northern Ireland’s house prices still around 45% below their 2007 peak based on ONS figures, many silver landlords will be looking to play the long game and enjoy capital growth with a Belfast property, as well as regular rental income.

The full impact of pensions freedom day will only be known months or even years from now, once the dust has settled, but in the near future, the buy-to-let sector and all those who are a part of it are bracing themselves for a surge in those looking to put their pension into property in order to turn it into pounds.

For further details, visit www.propertyfrontiers.com or call the team on +44 1865 202 700.

Grenada and China celebrate 10 years of diplomatic relations as the Spice Island looks to the East for investment

by Louise United Kingdom Property Frontiers

Less than 1% of tourists in Grenada are Chinese (United Damei Group)
Grenada and China mark 10 years of resumed diplomatic relations
Property investment on the ‘Spice Island’ from $77,500 deposit (Property Frontiers)

This April, Grenada and China will celebrate ten years of resumed diplomatic relations, yet Grenada remains a largely undiscovered gem by Chinese travellers. Now, the Spice Island is looking to tap into the Chinese tourism market as well as bringing investors into the fold.

A Caribbean gem

Grenada is one of the Caribbean’s most stunning destinations, with powder-soft white sand, clear crystal waters and a fantastic climate. The island has a reputation as a luxury retreat for travellers looking to experience the exclusivity of the Caribbean in beautiful and peaceful surroundings. Its visitors hail mainly from Europe, the US and Canada. Indeed, Leo Qin of United Damei Group observes,

“Presently, over 90% of tourists in Grenada are from Europe, America and Canada. We realised that less than 1% of the Chinese market knows about Grenada. China is a tremendous and fast-growing market. With developments between China and Grenada expected in the future, China will be our biggest tourism export market.”

From tourists to investors

But it is not just Chinese tourists that Grenada is seeking, explains Ray Withers, Chief Executive of specialist property investment company Property Frontiers,

“As such a fantastic holiday destination, Grenada offers some excellent resort investment opportunities and many Chinese investors are just beginning to look to the Caribbean and discover the potential there.”

Withers cites Bacolet Bay as the perfect example of an investment opportunity on the Spice Island. The five star sea view Cinnamon Suites at Bacolet Bay are attracting investors with deposits from as little as $77,500 and an average projected NET yield per annum of 10.5%.

The Cinnamon Suites offer a triple incentive to wealthy Chinese investors. Not only do they offer excellent yields, but investors can enjoy four weeks’ personal usage, including one week during high season. Additionally, Grenada resurrected its citizenship by investment law in 2013, with citizenship available to those investing $500,000 or more in real estate.

“Grenada really does offer everything to investors,” continues Property Frontiers’ Ray Withers, “And Bacolet Bay in particular is an attractive prospect. The fact that investors can enjoy the property themselves is a fantastic lifestyle benefit, which coupled with the impressive projected yield makes this a lovely opportunity for those looking to be part of the luxury Caribbean travel market.”

Grenada will be represented at IT&CM China 2015 in order to raise its profile as a tourism and investment destination. With so much going for it, it will be interesting to see how such a move will impact on the Spice Island’s visitor demographic over the years ahead.

For further details, visit www.propertyfrontiers.com or call the team on +44 1865 202 700.

Cardiff University returns to former glory while students stay in Collegiate style

by Viv United Kingdom Collegiate

Cardiff enters top 125 best universities for 1^st time in 4 years (QS World University Rankings)
1 in every 20 Cardiff properties occupied solely by students (Welsh Government)
New Northgate House Apartments ensure Cardiff students stay in style (Collegiate

Cardiff University is celebrating its return to the list of the world’s top universities, having taken joint 123^rd place with Liverpool. The QS World University Rankings include some 800 higher education institutions from across the globe in their ratings each year and this is the first time in four years that Cardiff has had a place in the top 125.

According to Vice Chancellor, Cardiff intends to carry on moving up the rankings, with the aim of entering the top 100 by 2017. Part of the plans include a world-first social sciences research park, which would see four buildings constructed as part of a £300 million campus development plan.

As the university plans for such an impressive upgrade, leading student accommodation provider Collegiate is also planning an upgrade – to the city’s housing.

Alwyn Court will offer Cardiff’s undergraduate and postgraduate students the latest in contemporary accommodation, including studio apartments and cluster flats with shared kitchen facilities. All have double bedrooms and en-suites, with an emphasis on stylish design and clever use of space

Meanwhile, the newly opened Northgate House Apartments are providing a luxurious alternative to life in halls or shared houses. Funky features like en suite shower rooms and breakfast bars put these apartments in a class of their own, with style and comfort high up on the design agenda.

At Summit House, 21^st century features are taken to the next level, with the beautifully designed accommodation, which is available exclusively to 87 residents, including an in-house cinema, gym and reading room.

Collegiate CEO Eri Cuanalo explains,

“We’re really excited to be able to reveal details of the new Alwyn Court and Northgate House sites in Cardiff, which complement our fantastic Summit House site. As with all Collegiate accommodation we’ve blended contemporary design with a mix of practical features like on-site laundries or reading rooms, so the apartments provide a comfortable home and ease the transition to living independently. We have also included high-speed broadband and Wi-Fi throughout the buildings, to ensure that residents can study whenever the mood takes them.

Cardiff is a fascinating city to live, study and play in. It is known across the UK for its thriving nightlife scene and draws students in from all corners of the UK and overseas. The need for modern, best-in-class student accommodation in the city is clear.

1 in every 20 properties in Cardiff is occupied solely by students, according to data released by the Welsh Government, accounting for 4.9% of total dwellings, but many are in a sad state of repair or located far from university campuses and other amenities.

Collegiate’s superior apartments in the city not only offer tenants stunning interiors, but also the peace of mind that comes from knowing the buildings have on-site management. They are also extremely well located for access to Cardiff University and the city centre.

With its reputation as a world-class university city moving up the rankings, Cardiff needed student accommodation to match. Now Collegiate’s three sites at Alwyn Court, Northgate House Apartments and Summit House are providing exactly that.

For more information, visit http://www.collegiate-ac.com/uk-student-accommodation/cardiff or contact Collegiate on tenants@collegiate-ac.com or by calling 01235 250 140.

Turkey’s record population boosts Istanbul property market

by Viv United Kingdom Universal21

Turkey population at record 77.7 million level (TurkStat)
Istanbul most populous city, with 18.5% of population, having increased 1.6% in just one year (TurkStat)
Upmarket district of Beylikdüzü population increases by 5.8% year-on-year – Universal21 provides investment opportunities

According to fresh statistics released by the Turkish Statistical Institute, TurkStat, the country’s population has hit an all-time high. Having now broken the 77 million mark to stand at an impressive figure of some 77.7 million as of 2014, these numbers are over 1 million more than those of 2013, when population stood at around the 76.7 million level.

A substantial increase year-on-year by anyone’s standards, alongside this there has been the interesting trend towards Turkish city-living, with a 0.5% increase in the number of people choosing to make a city home in 2014. Yet not all Turkish cities are equal in this respect. There is one location that stands out, even amongst this overall growth, as one to watch and it is not the capital.

The north-western city of Istanbul, famed as being the country’s largest and the cultural, economic and historic beating heart of Turkey, is today also becoming famed for its investment opportunities as its expanding population results in a greater need for more housing.

With 18.5% of the Turkish population now residing in the city, and with this total of 14.38 million citizens a figure inflated by 1.6% in just one year, Istanbul is Turkey’s most populated province. And this has led, by default, to an increased pressure on the city’s housing stock.

Adil Yaman, Director of Universal21, the leading property agency in South-West Istanbul, explains more,

“With the recent gains in population, Istanbul is now surging ahead of Turkey’s second most populous city, the capital Ankara, which houses 6.6% of the population compared to Istanbul’s 18.5%. The knock-on effect of this huge population surge is that it has given rise to the question: where will all these people find homes?

“With 2,767 people per square kilometre, coupled with the fact that Istanbul is an ever-more popular tourist destination on its own merit too, today there are fantastic investment opportunities for those looking to purchase property in the city. Istanbul is certainly a hot 2015 prospect.”

Even within Istanbul there are obvious variations in terms of population growth, and in turn property prospects, with the upmarket district of Beylikdüzü one that is proving popular with locals. With a name meaning ‘Plains of the Beylik’, Beylikdüzü is a highly thought-of Istanbul neighbourhood, inhabited by middle classes, 40% of whom have a university degree (according to a survey by the municipal council). Here, TurkStat have shown that the numbers of those residing have increased by 5.8% over the last year, from 248,056 in 2013 to 262,473 as of 2014.

Universal21 is offering a solution to this growing population, with projects designed to appeal to the local market and in turn investors keen to capitalise on the growth opportunities. One such is Tulip Residence, located just a few minutes’ walk away from the town centre, in Old Beylikdüzü.

Ideally situated close to all amenities and restaurants, as well as being nearby the new Marmara shopping centre and just 15 minutes from the beach and 20 minutes’ drive from the main Ataturk airport, Tulip Residence is an excellent investment choice. The resort is made up of studios, one bed and two bedroom apartments, with high quality facilities that include shops and a health club, children’s playground, outside pool and landscaped gardens, sauna, Turkish bath, tennis court and basketball court.

Studios are priced from £34,000 / €50,000, one bed apartments from £51,000 / €64,500 and 2 bed apartments are priced from £70,500 / €90,000.

For more information about Universal21, visit www.universal21.com or call 0203 287 8700.

Top of the class! Collegiate capitalises on record university numbers with rapid student accommodation portfolio expansion

by Kate United Kingdom Collegiate

Record numbers of university applicants in 2014, growth of 3.4% on 2013 (UCAS)
An estimated £2.4 billion invested in student accommodation market in 2014, according to figures as of November (CBRE)
Luxury student accommodation provider, Collegiate, expanding portfolio with hugely successful takeover acquisition

2014 was no doubt a standout year for the UK’s higher education sector. There were record numbers of university applicants, with UCAS recording figures of 512,400 being granted a place on a course, signifying a growth of 3.4% on 2013 figures and the first time that figures had ever broken the half a million mark.

Not seemingly put off by the increase in tuition fees (they can now be as much as £9,000 a year), more and more people are going to university and this, in turn, has meant a knock on effect on the accommodation sector within many university locations.

The student housing market has seen a huge expansion in recent times, with CBRE figures revealing that almost £2.4 billion was invested in the market last year (according to figures as of November 2014). And it is only predicted that this trend will continue. CBRE are forecasting a positive 2015 for the sector, with more and more people recognising the benefits of buying into the student housing market, stating that there is now,

“Widespread acceptance of student housing by all types of investor as a well-understood and mainstream asset class. The current investment flurry in student housing is set to continue into 2015… There has arguably never been a better time to bring student housing to the market.”

One company, doing just this is student property provider Collegiate, whose luxury accommodation offering is witnessing a period of great expansion as 2015 unfolds.

Collegiate already provides some of the very best student housing in university towns and cities up and down the UK, answering the problem of tired, run-down student properties with a quality solution. Properties are beautifully created and comfortable; modern living combines with ergonomically-designed work spaces to equal the very best quality of accommodation that this sector can offer.

Collegiate properties are also secure, incorporating features such as CCTV, 24-hour on-call support, and electronic entry systems, innovative, with fast broadband and contemporary work spaces to reflect students’ ambitions, and exciting, with amazing on-site facilities including private cinema rooms, gyms and reading rooms. With so much to offer, it is clear to see why Collegiate are rapidly expanding their portfolio in 2015, with more schemes becoming available through the company in more university locations around the country.

With 16 new residences this year, not just through creating their own properties in conjunction with trusted developers, Collegiate have also announced that they are bringing to market over half a dozen UK student schemes as part of a hugely successful takeover acquisition, proving not only that the sector is booming, but also that Collegiate have become the brand to trust at the luxury end of the market.

Schemes included in this exciting acquisition are Dean Clarke Lofts in Exeter, Algernon Firth in Leeds, McDonald Road taken over from Unite in Edinburgh, Liberty Fields taken over from Liberty Living in London, Claremont House in Glasgow, Allwyn Court in Cardiff, and others.

Heriberto Cuanalo, CEO of Collegiate explains what has led to this much-anticipated period of expansion for the company,

“There are great benefits of investing in a university education on all sides and Collegiate are at the forefront of this, with our expanding portfolio in 2015, proving this. As a leading provider of luxury student accommodation, we focus on high quality properties and, through ensuring that we employ the best professional management staff, are able to offer the very best living solutions to our students.

“Our residents want attention – they rightfully do not want to fall into the conveyor belt mentality surrounding some other student housing options – and expect us to focus on enhancing the student experience on both sides. This is precisely what we do and will continue to do in 2015 – it is going to be a great year!”

For more information about luxury student accommodation provider, Collegiate, visit www.collegiate-ac.com or call 01235 250 140.

AB Property Marketing appointed to represent market leading student accommodation provider, Collegiate

by Kate United Kingdom AB Property Marketing, Collegiate

With greater numbers of undergraduate and postgraduate students now attending universities across the UK than a decade ago (a growth of near on 5% from 2003/4 to 2013/4, according to the Higher Education Statistics Agency), naturally, in turn there has developed an increased need for student housing.

Notoriously of poor quality, cramped, tired-buildings were once the mainstay of this part of the housing sector, providing students with accommodation that did not always allow for the most pleasant of experiences, let alone a living environment that supported them to make the very most of their university careers. Yet in recent years, a new breed of student property has emerged, not only as a solution to these negative refrains but also paving the way for the future of student accommodation: comfortable, forward-thinking and innovative.

Collegiate is the trusted university housing brand that is making strides in this sector; the leading provider of superior student accommodation in some of Britain’s finest university towns, providing perfect solutions for students and excellent opportunities for investors. Reflecting the need for high quality student living, Collegiate accommodation encompasses beautifully-designed modern living and learning spaces, alongside additional facilities that can include on-site gyms, private cinemas and reading rooms to ensure making friends is easier.

Reflecting todays students’ ambitions and the lives they want to lead, not only do the residences provide everything required to support learning, including fast broadband and innovative work spaces, all properties also place the safety of their students as a priority, incorporating features such as CCTV, 24-hour on-call support, and electronic entry systems to provide peace of mind to students and parents alike. Bedrooms are bright and airy, modern in design and fully functional, and communal areas are comfortable and contemporary, making properties a real home from home, well-maintained and of superior quality.

Eri Cuanalo, CEO of Collegiate explains what makes them the standout student accommodation provider in the UK,

“Built and based on our many years of experience in discovering and understanding what students and those who care for them want and expect from quality student accommodation, each and every one of our properties is superbly designed and meticulously maintained to the very highest of standards. Not only this, but we add a little ‘wow’ to each property, ensuring that the transition to university life is easy and enjoyable. At Collegiate, we are proud to hold to our mantra of ‘student living, just better’ and we look forward to the greater expansion of our offering this year.”

In light of Collegiate’s ongoing expansion of their student properties, the company has appointed leading property PR agency, AB Property Marketing, to promote their superior accommodations to students and investors alike.

Charlotte Ashton, MD of AB Property Marketing comments,

“ABPM are delighted to be representing Collegiate at what is a very exciting time for the company as they continue to grow their property portfolio and introduce their luxury accommodation to an even greater number of university students. With their experience in the sector and reputation for the highest of standards, they have truly earned their place as the leading student accommodation provider in the UK. I only wish there was a Collegiate option when I was at university!”

As experts in UK student accommodation, Collegiate are available to provide comment on the industry, opinion on the changing market and an authority voice on the subject of student living.

For more information about Collegiate, visit www.collegiate-ac.com or call 01235 250 140.

Regulation alterations! What changes will 2015 bring for private landlords?

by Kate United Kingdom Ready Rentals

With increasing numbers becoming part of the private rented sector, growing numbers of new landlords are following suit, often without any relevant experience or ample knowledge behind them. Yet in a sector where “I didn’t know” isn’t an excuse and regulative demands seemingly ever-changing, it’s imperative that all those in the buy-to-let market know the letter of the law when it comes to their properties.

Neil Woodhead, Founder of Ready Rentals, an online resource that provides self-managing landlords with the tools and support needed to deliver a professional and legally compliant service, gives an insight into ‘Five 2015 Regulation Alterations’ set to drastically impact upon the private rented sector this year:

Right-to-Rent

“As of 1st December 2014, landlords in Birmingham, Walsall, Sandwell, Dudley and Wolverhampton can now face fines of up to £3,000 if they fail to determine whether their tenants legally have the right to live in the UK before granting a tenancy. The new legislation deems that they carry out the appropriate immigration checks, or ‘right-to-rent’ checks first or risk receiving a fine of up to £3,000.

If these trials are successful, the new measures could be rolled out across the rest of the country as early as March/April this year. With the 2011 census records showing that over 1.5 million people living in private rented housing have no passport, campaigners not only fear that this added bureaucracy could drive up illegal tenancies, poor housing conditions and discrimination, but it could also mean that tenants lose access to housing, simply by not having the proper identification. It is, however, imperative that all private landlords follow these rules and we wait with baited breath to see if the scheme becomes law throughout the entire country.”

Stamp Duty

“In his autumn statement, George Osborne unveiled a major overhaul of the stamp duty system. These changes should, in theory, mean that private landlords are paying lower costs when purchasing investment property in 2015. Hopefully this move will attract more landlords to the market and, in turn, encourage existing landlords to expand their portfolios too.”

Selective Licensing

“Selective Licensing is intended to address the impact that poor quality private landlords and anti-social tenants have on the market. Areas covered by such schemes require landlords to obtain a licence and those that fail to do so could face a fine of up to £20,000 and sometimes even the authorities taking control of the property.

Though a 2013 poll by Paragon Mortgages found that 74% of landlords thought that selective licensing would deter new landlords to the industry, this was overlooked by the Government and the scheme was first introduced by Newham council. Whilst there have been instances of the scheme failing – in December 2014 a High Court judge quashed a selective licensing scheme that Enfield Council was seeking to apply to the whole borough, ruling that the local authority had failed to consult those outside the area who were likely to be affected and failing to consult for a sufficiently long period – many local authorities have adopted the scheme.

Sheffield, Croydon, Rotherham, Brent, Waltham Forest, Liverpool, and the Wirral will all go ahead with selective licensing schemes in the first half of 2015 and with the passing of the Housing (Wales) Act 2014 making it a mandatory requirement for landlords and letting agents in Wales to register in order to let and/or manage property, it is important that landlords check their local council’s website to find out whether a selective licensing scheme is in place or if a HMO licence (House in Multiple Occupation) and what type is needed.”

Water Debt

“There is now a legal obligation on all landlords with properties in the Welsh Water (Dwr Cymru) and Dee Valley Water areas to share certain data about their tenants with their water company. After 21^st January 2015 if landlords within these areas fail to supply the relevant information for their existing tenants they could find themselves jointly liable for their tenants’ water debt. One to watch out for anyone owning and renting out a property in Wales this year and going forwards.”

Universal Credit

“Affecting 1.6 million tenancies, Universal Credit is now a feature of almost 100 Jobcentres across the UK and is set to be in one in three by Spring 2015. Bringing together six benefits and tax credits into a single monthly payment, this welfare reform aims to provide a simplified means-tested benefit system, providing an income to those out of work, as well as those on low incomes.

Critics argue that the benefit cap could harm larger families, force people to move to poorer areas (increasing ‘low-income ghettos’), make it much harder for benefit tenants to enter the private rented sector and penalise those who do not have access to and/or the skills to pursue an online application, thus creating more debt and homelessness in the process. Only time will tell whether the reformed welfare system is working or not along with whether there will be further delays, felt previously due to the new IT systems involved.”

Subscribing to a system such as Ready Rentals will support private landlords with all these legislative changes and more, including: main portal marketing, automated creation of all the documentation needed to successfully manage a property, advice on all procedures, notifying utility companies of changes, notification of anniversary dates, an income and expenditure log, as well as a legal and financial helpline and a weekly newsletter rounding up weekly news in the industry, Ready Rentals provides everything needed for private landlords.

For more information about the Ready Rentals service for private landlords and how it can support new and existing landlords, available from just £20 per month (including VAT), visit www.readyrentals.co.uk or call 0141 212 9120.

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