Unite Students posts £400m loss amid £190m property disposals

Unite Students, the UK's largest student landlord, announced a pre‑tax loss of more than £400 million for the six months to June. The loss was driven by a £530 million revaluation of its property portfolio, which pushed the company to accelerate disposals worth £190 million and pursue a plan to sell up to £400 million of assets.

The firm said the strategy will refocus its portfolio on the most in‑demand universities, targeting 15‑20 000 beds across around 20 cities. Rental income growth is expected to be modest, with a 1‑2 % increase this academic year, and occupancy is projected to reach 94‑96 %. CEO Joe Lister highlighted the move as a way to align the business with stronger demand and improve long‑term growth prospects.