Student Accommodation

The purpose built student accommodation (PBSA) sector is one that has grown exponentially over the previous decade both domestically and internationally, so much so that the PBSA market has matured enough to no longer be considered an alternative asset class. It is a high performing and extremely attractive asset class of huge importance to developers, funders and of course to the end-users – universities, colleges and students.

Whilst student housing is a high performing and extremely attractive asset, fierce competition for land, coupled with increasing Government regulation in the sector, means that commercial, pragmatic legal advice is more important than ever.

At CMS, we have been market leaders in the sector for over two decades. Whether you are an investor looking for a direct let or leased model, or a University or operator, we can provide advice on funding, acquisition, development, construction, letting, nominations, service level, management and residential tenancy agreements.

We can also provide specialist advice in relation to complex tax considerations (particularly VAT issues in relation to forward funding) and planning (in England there are three different use classes for student accommodation), as well as on joint ventures and income strip structures.

We are at the heart of the debate in relation to regulation and reform in the sector as active members of the BPF’s Student Accommodation Committee. We are also providing input to the SPF’s response documents to the Scottish Government on the financial implications of the Private Housing (Tenancies) (Scotland) Bill and its fitness for purpose in the PBSA sector and the wider PRS.

We are very pleased to act for the top players in the market including: UNITE Students, The Dot Group / GSA, Urbanest, Curlew Student Trust, Knightsbridge, iQ (Wellcome), Ziggurat, M&G Funds, Bouwfonds European Student Housing Fund, Fresh Student Living, The University of Glasgow and Imperial College.

CMS Real Estate Student Accommodation Brochure