Westbrooke Associates Reviews Reflect Investor Shift from Buy-to-Let to Assisted Living

With recent headlines from The Telegraph highlighting the sharp decline in traditional buy-to-let investments, many landlords are now reconsidering where they place their capital.

According to data shared by The Telegraph, buy-to-let investment has plunged to its lowest levels since before the 2008 financial crisis.

Driven by increasing tax burdens and lower yields, the situation is about to get even more challenging as the Renters Rights Bill, currently making its way through Parliament, is set to radically reshape the landlord-tenant dynamic.

With peers warned to brace for late-night sittings to push it through, the Bill proposes sweeping protections for tenants, including a ban on no-fault evictions and fixed-term tenancy agreements. This means landlords could soon lose key rights to reclaim their properties, even in the face of disruptive or non-paying tenants. For many investors, this could just be the beginning of a much tougher era.

Moreover, in the latest Budget, Rachel Reeves announced an increase in stamp duty for landlords, raising the surcharge from 3% to 5% in a move that adds further strain to an already pressured sector.

However, as traditional buy-to-let falters, one sector is quietly gaining momentum—assisted living. 

Westbrooke Associates believe this is no coincidence, but a clear sign of changing investor priorities.

As specialists in identifying forward-thinking and ethical opportunities, we’ve seen a rise in interest for assisted living developments, particularly those supported by government funding and long-term lease arrangements.

Westbrooke Associates reviews highlight the decline of traditional buy-to-let

Buy-to-let landlords now account for just 10% of home purchases in the UK, down from 16% a decade ago. The Midlands and North of England, traditional hotspots for landlord activity, are still offering average purchase prices of £150,480.

Despite entry prices appearing more affordable, landlords face ongoing expenses such as refurbishment and maintenance, alongside navigating increasingly complex tenant legislation. For example, rental yields in London, average just 5.7%, with new lets struggling to keep up with inflation.

Meanwhile, regions that previously performed well are seeing dwindling returns, prompting many investors to question the viability of buy-to-let as a long-term strategy.

Why Assisted Living is a Game-Changer

In contrast, assisted living investments offered by Westbrooke Associates offer a more stable and socially impactful option. These fully furnished, high-spec properties are designed to support individuals with disabilities, mental health needs or those who require supported living arrangements.

With long-term leases already secured and backed by local authorities, investors benefit from consistent rental income. What’s more, these agreements typically span 25 years and include annual rent reviews linked to the Consumer Prices Index, helping to ensure that returns rise with inflation.

There are also none of the traditional headaches associated with buy-to-let. There are no service charges, no void periods, no ground rent and no maintenance costs.

A Future-Proof Investment

The demand for assisted living continues to surge as councils across the UK struggle to meet housing requirements for vulnerable populations. Investing in this sector is not only profitable, it’s purpose-driven.

Westbrooke Associates presents opportunities that meet rigorous due diligence criteria, combining strong financial fundamentals with positive societal impact.

Properties start from just £145,000 for a one-bedroom unit, making them directly comparable and often superior to the cost of a traditional buy-to-let in many UK regions.

With a 25-year repairing and insuring (FRI) management agreement in place from day one, it’s an opportunity designed for income, stability and peace of mind.

The Telegraph has rightly brought national attention to the declining returns and increased risks in traditional property investing. But for investors seeking better value, ethical impact and dependable returns, the solution is already here.

Looking beyond buy-to-let? See why investors are switching. Download our investor guides or contact our investor relations team today.