Is Britain’s love affair with buying property over?
- 11th Feb 26
For decades, homeownership has been seen as the ultimate relationship milestone. Buy a house, put down roots, settle for life. But as Valentine’s Day approaches, a new question is emerging: is Britain finally falling out of love with buying property?
Rising house prices, higher mortgage rates and the cost-of-living crisis have made homeownership feel increasingly out of reach, particularly for young couples navigating the early stages of building a life together. For many, the pressure to buy is no longer romantic; it’s stressful, restrictive and financially risky.
Instead, a growing number of couples are rethinking what stability really looks like. Not only will Gen Z likely to pay double in mortgage payments compared to older generations, but the stress of rising cost of living makes having the sole responsibility for repairs, plumbing problems and general upkeep far less appealing. When budgets are already stretched, the idea of being solely responsible for a leaking roof or a broken boiler can feel more like a burden than a badge of success. The one-size-fits-all narrative of “buy at all costs” is giving way to a more nuanced view of what security, success and happiness look like in 2026.
Falling for rentals
As a result, renting is shedding its old reputation as a “stop-gap” and becoming a conscious, long-term choice, especially Build to Rent. This type of home is offering couples a different kind of commitment:
· Flexible tenancies
· Professionally managed homes
· Predictable monthly costs
· Amenity-rich living
· No surprise repair bills
· Lifestyle benefits
· Freedom to move as life evolves.
For those prioritising careers, wellbeing or flexibility over bricks-and-mortar permanence, stability is no longer defined by ownership, but by quality of life.
Commitment, community and connection
Valentine’s Day is no longer just about romantic love; it’s a celebration of community, friendship and broader human connection, from Galentine’s or Palentine’s get-togethers with friends to the everyday relationships that make life feel richer. As couples rethink what they want from where they live, connection and community are becoming just as important as location or square footage, particularly at a time when loneliness is rising and social circles are increasingly shaped by busy, modern lives.
Build to Rent are designed with community-focused developments in mind, offering shared spaces, events and thoughtful amenities that encourage neighbours to become friends. From communal lounges and co-working areas to yoga classes and resident socials, these environments make it easier to build meaningful connections without forcing them.
The ‘pawfect’ relationship
Love comes in all forms, and for many of us, the companionship and joy we get from our pets can rival any human connection. Yet not all landlords make it easy to share your home with furry friends. That’s where Build to Rent stands out, the majority of developments not only allow pets but truly welcome them, with dedicated amenities and events like dog meet-ups, pet treat areas, and community activities designed to celebrate them as part of the family. At a time when pets are playing an increasingly important role in wellbeing, companionship and emotional connection, having pet-friendly homes that welcomes them can make all the difference.
Built on partnerships
The growth of the Build to Rent sector has been supported by Love to Rent, the platform at the heart of connecting renters with high-quality, purpose-built homes. Love to Rent is a UK platform specialising in professionally managed rental homes designed for long-term and flexible living. By bringing together developers, operators and trusted suppliers and celebrating collaboration, Love to Rent helps create better renting experiences for all.
Partnerships are at the core of this mission. Love to Rent has compiled the Excellence in Build to Rent report, sharing insights, stories and expertise by collaborating with sector leaders including:
· Placefirst
· Flatfair
· Yardi
· NHBC
· GAA Living
· Apo Group Limited.
The platform also brings the community together through initiatives like the Build to Rent Awards, connecting award winners and sponsors via breakfast roundtables to share knowledge and celebrate innovation.
To give renters more confidence in their choices, Love to Rent partners with hereSAY to collect and showcase authentic customer feedback on the platform, helping prospective residents make informed decisions about their next home.
Love wins
This Valentine’s Day, love isn’t just about grand gestures. It’s about making choices that reduce stress, support wellbeing and create space for shared futures. When your home works for you, love really does win.