Knowledge Base

Insights

Analysis, strategy and market commentary on social housing investment — written by John Woolley, founder of Social Yield. No noise. No filler. Just the information serious investors need.

8 min

The Energy Efficiency Opportunity Most Property Investors Are Missing

Upgrading to EPC C isn't just a compliance requirement — it's a value-add strategy that strengthens your lease eligibility, yield, and long-term asset value.

11 min

The Armchair Investment Case: Building Yield Without Managing a Single Tenant

A detailed look at how the social housing lease model works, why housing associations prefer it, and why serious investors are moving their capital into this space.

7 min

How to Finance a Social Housing Investment: Bridging, BTL and Beyond

The financing landscape for social housing is more flexible than most investors realise. Here's how to structure your deal to maximise return on equity.

6 min

Which Regions Offer the Strongest Social Housing Yields Right Now?

Not all geographies are equal. We break down the areas of England where demand is highest, supply is tightest, and yields are most attractive for incoming investors.

9 min

What Registered Providers Actually Want From Private Investors

Housing associations aren't simply looking for stock. They have standards, preferences, and long-term relationships in mind. Here's how to position yourself as the right partner.

5 min

2028 EPC Deadline: What It Means for Landlords and Social Housing Investors

The upcoming EPC C minimum is driving thousands of landlords to exit the market — and creating a flow of off-market stock that social housing investors are well-placed to acquire.

10 min

Building a Social Housing Portfolio: From First Deal to Passive Income Machine

How to think about scaling a social housing portfolio — which deals to prioritise, how to leverage equity, and when to bring in a specialist partner.

6 min

Understanding the Numbers: Gross Yield vs Net Yield in Social Housing

Gross yield figures make for good headlines, but net yield is what actually pays you. Here's how to calculate it properly and what costs to account for in a social housing deal.

7 min

The Case for Social Housing in a High-Rate Environment

When mortgage rates are elevated, most residential strategies struggle. Social housing — with its long-term lease structure and guaranteed rent — holds up better than almost any alternative.

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