Unite Group plc (LSE:UTG) has reported strong rental performance, contributing to rising property valuations. With 85% of its beds already reserved for the 2025/26 academic year, the company is seeing healthy demand, bolstered by the approval of a new 2,000-bed development in collaboration with Newcastle University. Unite forecasts continued growth in student numbers, supported by demographic trends and international enrolment, and is targeting occupancy levels of 97–98%.
Regulatory changes, such as the proposed Renters’ Rights Bill, are expected to pressure the HMO market by raising costs and limiting supply—developments that may further benefit Unite’s purpose-built student accommodation model. The company’s forward-looking project pipeline includes major developments in Newcastle and Manchester. Additionally, the refinancing of USAF’s bonds has strengthened the company’s financial position.
Unite’s strong financial results and ongoing strategic initiatives underpin a positive long-term outlook. Despite current bearish signals from technical indicators, its valuation remains appealing, and the company is well-placed for a potential rebound.
About Unite Group plc
Unite Students is the UK’s leading provider of purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA), offering housing for 68,000 students across 152 properties in 23 university cities. Partnering with more than 60 universities, the company has been a key player in the higher education housing market since 1991 and operates as a Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT) listed on the London Stock Exchange.
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