The UK is one of the world’s top education hubs, with students from all over the world applying to its universities for their academic and professional growth. Data from the Home Office revealed that 419,558 student visas were applied for in the year ending September 2025, which was 7% more than the previous year. From historic hubs like Oxford and Cambridge to the eminent research facilities of top universities in London, Manchester, Birmingham and Edinburgh, international students are drawn to the UK.
An increase in student volume means greater housing demand. According to Knight Frank’s latest data, the UK is home to one-third of the global PBSA (purpose-built student accommodation) investment, with nearly £50 billion invested in the sector in the last decade alone.
Why Is Investing in Student Rental Accommodation Profitable?
There is a huge gap between the demand and supply of good-quality student rentals in the UK. This makes investment in such properties profitable for investors, landlords, and developers. The average PBSA rent grew by 18% in two years between 2023 and 2025, and is expected to grow even further in 2026.
What Do International Students and Their Parents Expect in a Rental Home?
Many parents of international students coming to the UK invest up to £30,000 in tuition fees and expect the accommodation to match their investment. The space should be comfortable, functional, as well as move-in ready. It should be tech-equipped to support the personal and academic goals of students. High-quality furnishings and modern kitchens, along with fast internet and broadband services, are features appreciated by most students and their parents.
Is There Demand for Premium Rentals From Parents of Overseas Students?
Factors such as proximity to universities, safety, functionality, and immediate usability play an important role for overseas students and their parents when selecting accommodation. They prioritise premium rentals that demonstrate attention to detail, address their needs, and are ready for occupation from day one, as this reduces uncertainty and ensures expectations are met.
What Furniture Should Be Included in a Good Student Rental?
Student rentals should typically have durable and easy-to-maintain furniture that supports everyday use. High-quality bedframes and mattresses, along with a wardrobe and foldable shelves for ample storage, are must-haves.
A dedicated study area with a table and ergonomic chair, as well as proper window dressings for privacy and light control, are needed when setting up a student accommodation. Since such rentals have compact layouts, expertly designed furnishings help maximise the space’s usability while enhancing productivity for students.
What Type of Kitchen Appliances and Utilities Do Students Require?
Modern appliances like a microwave, refrigerator, cooker, and cutlery are essentials in a student’s kitchen. Providing storage for dining ware and a dining table with easy-to-clean surfaces adds further convenience to students’ busy lifestyles. Among utilities, high-speed internet along with ample lighting, sufficient electrical outlets and plug points near the study areas, and good heating systems are welcome additions.
What Are the Benefits of Getting a Student Rental Professionally Styled and Furnished?
There are several benefits of getting your student accommodation professionally furnished.
i. Faster lettings
85% of the properties we furnish are let within just one week of project completion, as with these three adjacent London apartments, which were let to high-calibre tenants within a week.
ii. Higher rental returns
Furnished properties yield rental returns worth 15%-25% higher than unfurnished units. An example of this is this London flat, which was booked by the first viewer who agreed to a 41% increase in the asking rent.
iii. Reduced void periods
Student tenants usually prefer furnished homes. This is because they are move-in-ready and reduce the turnaround time between tenancies.
iv. Attracts premium tenants
Furnished and well-presented homes appeal to students and their families willing to pay more for premium rentals.
How Can InStyle Direct’s Student Furniture Pack Add Value to My Rental Property?
i. Quick turnarounds
Most of the properties we furnish are completed within 24-48 hours (depending on stock availability), making us an ideal partner for landlords with tight timelines.
ii. Student-focused designs
Our furniture, in addition to being design-led and cost-effective, is also durable and easy to maintain, making it a practical choice for student life.
iii. End-to-end support
Our furnishing solutions include everything, from initial design to coordinated delivery and professional installation. We also offer ethical waste removal services so the student tenants’ moving experience remains smooth and stress-free.
iv. Range of options
Starting at just £3,395 + VAT, we offer a range of design-led furniture packs to suit the style preferences of diverse client groups.
Happy Students Mean Consistent Income and Fewer Voids
Finally, a student rental is supposed to cover all the key aspects of university life and make living comfortable and hassle-free for the tenant. Apart from smart furnishings and practical interiors, things like location, flexible lease terms, prompt response to service requests, and consolidated bills add convenience and make a student rental stand out even in a competitive market.
With over 20+ years of experience in furnishing homes for landlords, investors, developers, and homeowners, we understand the diverse and dynamic needs of our clients. As the market for quality student accommodation and rentals grows, we can help you capture it with the right solutions. Contact us to know more.
