A lettings agency specialising in managing Build To Rent developments says it’s collected 99 per cent of all invoiced rent during the Coronavirus crisis. 

Manchester-based Ascend has reported the figures from January to September 2020, which includes the national lockdown.

During the period Ascend has collected almost all rent owed on its national portfolio of BTR schemes, which comprises two to four-bedroom apartments and houses in developments ranging from 50 to 100 properties. 

It says this performance contrasts with the 95 per cent industry-wide average for rent collection.

Ascend says it worked closely with its residents throughout the pandemic to ease concerns and provide flexible terms where needed. The company agreed payment plans with the worst affected and then worked closely with residents to get payments back up-to-date.

“We all know how tough this year has been for many without adding housing worries into the mix. We understand just how vital it is to provide high quality rental homes in the areas where they’re most needed and to protect those renters who might require extra support” says managing director Ged McPartlin.

“By putting our residents’ individual circumstances first and being flexible in our approach, we’ve worked hard to collect almost all invoiced rent. This is testament to our track record as a leading BtR specialist; our knowledge of the sector and what people need from an agent, especially at difficult times.”

Ascend’s BtR clients include Gatehouse Bank, Live DifRent, Sigma Capital Group and Simple Life.