Key facts
- Royal London Asset Management (RLAM) has acquired 377 build-to-rent (BTR) homes in Watford and Barking.
- These acquisitions increase RLAM's total BTR portfolio to 962 homes.
- The strategy focuses on creating a hub in Greater London and the South East, alongside targeting suburban and commuter markets.
- The Watford development, comprising 225 homes, is scheduled for completion in the third quarter of 2026.
- The Barking development, with 152 homes, is expected to be completed by November 2028.
- RLAM's in-house management platform, ProperTies Living, will oversee the operation of these new developments.
Royal London Asset Management (RLAM) has significantly expanded its build-to-rent (BTR) portfolio, acquiring 377 new homes across two developments in Watford and Barking. This brings RLAM's total BTR holdings to 962 units, advancing its strategy to scale its living sector investments in Greater London, the South East, and key regional UK cities.
The acquisitions include 152 BTR homes at Weston Homes' Abbey Quay development in Barking and 225 homes under construction at Sydney Road in Watford. These deals build upon RLAM's existing investments in Slough, Bracknell, and Town Quay Barking.
The Watford scheme, featuring a mix of one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments, is slated for completion in the third quarter of 2026. The Barking development, part of a larger mixed-use riverside masterplan, is expected to be finished by November 2028.
Both properties will be managed by ProperTies Living, RLAM's in-house operational platform. Paul Ruston, living fund manager at RLAM, stated the aim is to deliver well-managed, high-quality homes meeting local needs while providing long-term investor returns. Tim Holden, founder of ProperTies Living, emphasized the focus on creating welcoming homes with quality design and service.
Bob Weston, chairman of Weston Homes, highlighted the continued partnership with RLAM and confidence in their ability to create quality homes in prime locations, noting the Abbey Quay development contributes much-needed BTR housing for London.