SDL Group ended 2016 with a new milestone, cementing its bid to become the largest provider of Build to Rent (B2R) services in the UK.

“It’s fantastic to be in the position to welcome our 1000th tenant, ending the year on a real high,” commented Paul Staley, director of PRS at SDL Group.

“This achievement, and our continued work with clients such as Sigma Capital Group, is testament to the potential that this market holds. Several years ago we predicted that B2R would provide a major shake up in the Private Rental Sector. We’re now seeing this come to fruition.

“Last summer there was a slight slowdown in the approval of funding for B2R schemes immediately after the Brexit referendum but thankfully this was short lived. After the initial shock, the big institutional lenders now appear to have an even greater appetite for the sector.

“I’m anticipating an increased interest in B2R due to the recent decline of the Bond markets as it offers institutions a relatively safe and secure home for their capital, whilst providing a regular and constant return, which is ideal for pension funds looking for annuity income.”

SDL Group plans to secure 20 per cent of the UK’s new B2R specific stock by 2020, growing its B2R portfolio to over 10,000 properties.