Who Lives in HMOs?

August 27, 2025

All of the properties we develop and manage are solely tenanted by local hardworking individuals or local businesses who need to house staff working on nearby infrastructure projects. This is often the case for HMOs across the country in general, with many being home to professionals, contractors, and key workers who simply need good quality accommodation close to where they work. We have never entered into government contracts to house individuals outside of our control, and we never will. Every resident in our HMOs is carefully chosen, ensuring that our houses remain safe, welcoming, and well cared for.

What is a HMO?

A HMO, or House in Multiple Occupation, is a property rented out by at least three people who are not from the same household or family but share facilities such as a kitchen, bathroom, and living space. In short, it is shared housing for unrelated individuals. HMOs are often an excellent solution for professionals, contractors, and key workers who want affordable, flexible accommodation close to where they work.

Who Lives in Our HMOs?

The tenants in our HMOs are reliable, responsible people. Many are skilled workers brought in by local companies to deliver essential infrastructure projects. Others are professionals who prefer the community feel and affordability of shared accommodation. Every tenant is thoroughly vetted before moving in. We carry out background checks, verify employment, and ensure they are a good fit for the house and its existing residents.

Why HMOs are Becoming Increasingly Popular

HMO properties have seen a surge in popularity in recent years, both among tenants and investors. For tenants, they provide affordable accommodation without the long-term financial commitment of renting an entire property. With rising living costs, many professionals and contractors prefer a modern, well-kept shared home where bills are often included, helping them manage their budgets more effectively.

For businesses, HMOs are a practical solution when they need to house staff locally, especially during short- or medium-term projects. Instead of dealing with the costs of hotels or serviced apartments, a HMO offers a homely, cost-effective option.

From the landlord’s perspective, HMOs are also in demand because they allow more efficient use of housing, particularly in towns and cities where rental demand is high. However, it’s important to note that the quality of management makes all the difference — and this is where we set ourselves apart. By maintaining strict standards and prioritising tenant welfare, our properties attract long-term, respectful occupants.

Breaking the Stigma Around HMOs

Unfortunately, some people still view HMOs as poorly maintained or disruptive to local communities. While this may be the case with landlords who neglect their properties, it is not true of ours. In fact, our HMO properties are often the best kept and most attractive houses on the street. We take pride in maintaining high standards of cleanliness, safety, and comfort, ensuring they remain a place where tenants are proud to live and neighbors are pleased to have nearby.

Why Our Approach Works

By focusing on local tenants and businesses, maintaining strict vetting processes, and investing in the quality of our properties, we ensure that our HMOs stand out for all the right reasons. They provide affordable, well managed homes for hardworking individuals while contributing positively to the neighborhoods they are in.

Frequently Asked Questions About HMOs

Are HMOs only for students?
No. While some HMOs are designed for student housing, the majority across the country are home to professionals, contractors, and key workers. Our properties, for example, are rented exclusively by working individuals and local businesses housing staff.

Do HMOs lower house values in the area?
No, properly managed HMO properties do not lower house values in the local area. In fact, when well maintained, they can have the opposite effect by improving the appearance of a street and ensuring properties are kept in excellent condition. Many of our HMOs are the best maintained and most attractive homes on their road, which adds to the overall appeal of the neighbourhood.

Are HMOs safe?
Yes, HMOs must meet strict safety regulations, including fire safety and property standards. On top of that, we carry out thorough vetting of all tenants and maintain our properties to a very high standard, ensuring they remain safe and welcoming.

Why would someone choose to live in a HMO?
The main reasons are affordability, flexibility, and convenience. Many tenants enjoy the fact that bills are often included, making budgeting easier. Others like the social aspect of living with like-minded professionals while still having private space.

How do you choose who lives in your HMOs?
Every tenant goes through a strict vetting process that includes employment checks, references, and background checks. This ensures our houses remain safe, stable, and welcoming for everyone.