Market's view on Residential Sec

Published on April 2024

  • Retirement units generally have small kitchens, with dimensions around 5ft by 6ft.
  • Rental properties typically feature small and basic facilities, with a practice of refurbishing at each re-let to reduce maintenance costs. Budget products and cheap cabinetry are commonly used.
  • The cost of installing a new kitchen in a 2-bed property can be significant, even when choosing inexpensive options.
  • Concerns are raised about the sustainability of managing properties, especially with the potential need for significant expenditures on repairs and replacements every few years.
  • It is suggested that properties are only refreshed rather than fully replaced, with an average spend of £2.3k, which might be inadequate for complete refurbishments.
  • There is a belief that the low expenditure on refurbishments indicates efficient management rather than cutting corners.
  • Engagement with management has been positive, highlighting responsibilities split between shared ownership and retirement properties regarding maintenance and refurbishments.
  • Criticism regarding the company’s handling of inflation-linked debt, with suggestions that it could be financially damaging.
  • Directors’ regular investment in the company shares and significant internal shareholdings are seen as positive signs of confidence in the business model.
  • The financial strategy includes a significant portion of long-term fixed-rate debt, which provides a stable financial outlook against interest rate fluctuations. However, concerns about the management of property dilapidations and refurbishments remain.
  • The company’s debt profile is generally viewed positively, especially with stable rents, which may offset potential increases in debt costs due to inflation.
  • Some stock watchers express concern over the timing of kitchen and bathroom replacements across many properties, potentially leading to large future expenditures.
  • Overall, there are mixed feelings about the company’s financial health and management strategies, with several expressing caution due to past losses despite some positive aspects of the business model.
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