Build-to-Rent Developments and What They Offer Tenants

A key fact is emerging in Leeds' dynamic real estate market: build-to-rent developments are on the rise, with over 1,000 new units expected to be completed by the end of 2026 in areas such as Granary Wharf and Clarence Dock.

This trend matters now because the UK housing market is at a crossroads, with many would-be buyers priced out of the market and turning to renting instead. In Leeds, the average house price is now over £230,000, while the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is around £850 per month. As a result, build-to-rent developments are filling a crucial gap in the market, offering high-quality, purpose-built rental accommodation that is often more affordable than buying.

In Leeds, build-to-rent developments can be found in areas such as the city centre, where the new Moda Living development on Whitehall Road is offering 466 luxury apartments for rent, and in neighbourhoods like Kirkstall, where the Kirkstall Bridge development is providing 305 new rental homes. Organisations such as Leeds City Council and the West Yorkshire Combined Authority are also supporting the growth of build-to-rent in the city, through initiatives such as the Leeds Housing Strategy and the West Yorkshire Housing Investment Fund.

What Do Build-to-Rent Developments Offer Tenants?

So what exactly do build-to-rent developments offer tenants in Leeds? The answer is a range of benefits and amenities that traditional rentals often can't match. For example, the Moda Living development on Whitehall Road offers residents access to a rooftop garden, a gym, and a range of community events, as well as on-site management and maintenance. Meanwhile, the Kirkstall Bridge development is providing residents with access to a communal lounge, a co-working space, and a range of outdoor amenities, including a riverside walkway and a bike storage facility. According to data from the UK Apartment Association, the average build-to-rent development in the UK offers around 10 different amenities, including things like gyms, lounges, and bike storage facilities.

In terms of affordability, build-to-rent developments in Leeds are often priced competitively with traditional rentals. For example, a one-bedroom apartment at the Moda Living development on Whitehall Road might cost around £900 per month, while a similar apartment in a traditional rental building might cost around £950 per month. However, build-to-rent developments often offer longer-term leases and more flexible payment terms, which can make them a more attractive option for renters who want stability and security. As of June 2026, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in a build-to-rent development in Leeds is around £875 per month, according to data from the property consultancy Knight Frank.

So what happens next for build-to-rent in Leeds? As the market continues to evolve, it's likely that we'll see even more build-to-rent developments popping up around the city, offering a range of benefits and amenities to tenants. For renters who are looking for a high-quality, affordable place to live, build-to-rent developments are definitely worth considering. With their range of amenities, competitive pricing, and flexible payment terms, they offer a unique alternative to traditional rentals and buying. As the city's housing market continues to shift and change, it will be interesting to see how build-to-rent developments shape the future of renting in Leeds.