Real estate
3 min read 24 Oct 22
For many young adults, higher education offers qualifications that can open doors and often represents a rite of passage, largely defined by the university experience. High quality student accommodation therefore remains in strong demand, supported by the return of international travel.
London continues to be a global centre of higher education, attracting students from all corners of the world. The purpose built student accommodation (PBSA) market has evolved over several decades, therefore students have access to dynamic, well-managed accommodation, in London and other major cities. Institutional-quality stock is increasing on the Continent, though many gateway cities remain structurally undersupplied.
As overseas demand for higher education continues to grow, we believe the increasing affordability of Europe’s universities versus the UK offers a potential edge. Italy is one of the top European targets for international students, particularly from the US and China, largely thanks to the country’s cheaper tuition fees and lower cost of living, combined with top-ranking universities and an increasing number of English language-taught courses.
Bologna is a key destination for both domestic and international students; home to the world’s oldest – and Italy’s largest – university. The University of Bologna is also recognised for its affiliation with the John Hopkins US research institute.
As a location, Bologna has a lot to offer. With a large student population, the city is vibrant with bars, coffee shops and art galleries. It is also easier to navigate by bike than other, larger cities, while only an hour by train from Milan.
The living options available to students are typically direct lets or accommodation funded by the local municipality. However, there is a growing need for safe, amenitised accommodation that can easily be arranged.
M&G takes an active role in developing living space tailored to consumers’ needs and local culture, in a sustainable way. Our student living asset in ‘Little Bologna’, less than 20 minutes’ walk from the university and high speed rail station, provides a spectrum of amenities that both facilitate study, and help to optimise the university experience.
Rooms are equipped with kitchenettes, in addition to a shared kitchen with generous freezer space, honouring the tradition for Italian mothers to pack their children off with a large supply of home-cooked food. Students also have access to study areas, a yoga studio, gym, gaming pods, and sky lounge overlooking the city; a place to socialise. For students living away from home for the first time, especially those from overseas, spaces and events that bring people together can be fundamental to wellbeing.
The building is powered by sustainable technology including air source heat pumps and energy saving systems; targeting LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) silver certification. Reflecting the increased use of private, green transport, post-pandemic, it also provides 294 bicycle spaces, 18 electric scooter spaces and car charging points.
For core investors, Europe’s nascent student living sector can offer higher income returns, on top of the defensive and diversification benefits of residential real estate.
Understanding both consumer needs and market complexities, from obtaining building permits to identifying the right operator, is crucial to investment strategies. The ability to leverage experience and relationships in other living sectors and geographies can help provide access to high quality real estate with long-term value.
The value of investments will fluctuate, which will cause prices to fall as well as rise and investors may not get back the original amount they invested. Past performance is not a guide to future performance. The views expressed in this document should not be taken as a recommendation, advice or forecast.