The Property Lifeboat

The Property Lifeboat is a family-run property business established in 2013 and based near Ashford in Kent. The firm operates across three primary areas of the property market: property acquisition, land and property development, and property letting and management. The company's origins involved assisting "distressed" property owners and acquiring properties in coastal towns within its operational region. The company's acquisition strategy encompasses residential, commercial, and mixed-use properties. In terms of development, The Property Lifeboat promotes and develops land for new residential properties, alongside enhancing existing structures. This development work includes property conversions, such as transforming commercial properties into residential units or reconfiguring large residential properties into Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs). The firm applies project management skills to secure new assets, facilitate fundraising, and negotiate deals, while also coordinating and overseeing refurbishment projects to prepare investment properties for rental. Under its brand, Lifeboat Lettings, the company provides specialist property management and letting services for both residential and commercial properties. Lifeboat Lettings, a Kent-based agency established in 2017, is experienced in managing a diverse portfolio that includes Co-Living spaces and family lets. The letting arm of the business focuses on delivering customer-centric service to both tenants and landlords, recognising the dual importance of a property as a home and an investment. The Property Lifeboat benefits from the extensive experience of its co-owners and directors, Rick Walton and Richard Poynter. Rick Walton has been involved in residential property investment since 2005, with a personal portfolio featuring single-family lets, apartment blocks, and professional house shares, including HMOs. Richard Poynter's involvement in the property industry spans over 25 years, having established his first HMO in 1993 and subsequently building an extensive portfolio of family lets and HMO/Co-Living properties. His expertise also covers refurbishments, conversions, renovations, land development, and navigating complex planning regulations. The company's focus on HMOs and Co-Living spaces demonstrates its experience in accommodation types that can serve the broader Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) sector. The directors' backgrounds include direct involvement in setting up and running Co-Living spaces and managing HMO portfolios, with the company actively acquiring additional six-bedroom HMOs. This specialisation in shared living arrangements and multi-occupancy properties positions The Property Lifeboat with relevant experience in providing accommodation solutions akin to those found within the student housing market. The firm also offers resources such as an e-book on "Top Tips for setting up Co-Living Properties".

The Property Lifeboat, established in 2013, operates as a local, family-run business situated near Ashford in Kent. The company actively engages in three primary areas within the property market. These core activities encompass the acquisition of properties, the development of land and existing structures, and the letting and management of various property types. The firm's operations are rooted in a comprehensive approach to property, addressing different stages of the property lifecycle from purchase to ongoing management.

The company's buying division acquires a diverse range of properties, including residential, commercial, and mixed-use assets. This broad acquisition strategy allows The Property Lifeboat to engage with various market segments. In terms of development, the firm promotes and develops land, undertaking projects for new residential properties. The Property Lifeboat also focuses on developing existing properties, enhancing their value and utility through strategic improvements and renovations. This dual focus on new builds and existing property development demonstrates a versatile approach to expanding its portfolio.

A significant aspect of The Property Lifeboat's work involves property conversions. The company specializes in transforming properties from one format into another, such as converting commercial properties into residential units. This capability extends to adapting large residential properties, for instance, reconfiguring a family home into a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO). These conversion projects allow the firm to meet evolving market demands and optimize property use. The ability to create HMOs suggests an involvement in accommodation types that can serve various tenant groups, including students, although the website does not explicitly mention student accommodation.

Beyond acquisition and development, The Property Lifeboat provides comprehensive letting services for both residential and commercial properties. The company manages a portfolio of properties, ensuring efficient occupancy and tenant satisfaction. Furthermore, the firm offers specialist property management services, providing a detailed and professional approach to property upkeep and administration. This includes handling various aspects of property operations, aiming to deliver a seamless experience for property owners and tenants alike.

The Property Lifeboat emphasizes direct engagement with its clients and partners. Individuals can speak directly with key personnel, Rick Walton or Richard Poynter, regarding any property-related queries. This direct line of communication is offered for questions pertaining to property investing, development, or letting. The company provides a free 15-minute consultation, allowing prospective clients to discuss their specific needs and benefit from the firm's expertise. This approach underscores the company's commitment to personalized service and expert guidance within the property sector.