Investment Uncut: Jenny Harbord - Is affordable housing the next frontier for institutional investment?

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Institutional investment in residential property is growing, with affordable housing an emerging subsector. The UK affordable housing sector offers an attractive combination of secure, inflation-linked cashflows and strong social impact. Current market conditions (including a severe housing shortfall, rising rental yields, and a supportive ESG framework) provide a compelling entry point for institutional investors. However, thoughtful navigation of political and operational risks is essential. Is affordable housing a “win-win” sector with strong social impact and robust financial returns?  

In this week’s episode, we speak with Jenny Harbord, Head of Real Assets at LCP, to explore the UK affordable housing market and why institutional investors are increasingly drawn to this sector. For our Views from the Boardroom section, Jacob speaks to Sarah Smart (Chair at TPR) to talk about the challenges and opportunities facing the pension scheme industry.  

What’s one thing you would like listeners to take away?

• The key is to remember that housing is someone’s home – a foundation to their life and lifestyle. Investors should focus on delivering that, and then the financial returns will follow. 

Any recommendations?

• All Quiet on the Western Front by Erich Maria Remarque 

• Victory '45: A new history of World War II from the bestselling historians by James Holland