SAY Addresses Market Challenges with New Residential Asset Management Service

London, March 2025: With rising operational costs, increasing service charges, and shifting market dynamics, residential property owners and investors are under more pressure than ever. To help navigate these challenges, award-winning SAY Property Consultants has introduced a Residential Asset Management Service, providing developers, local authorities, and investors with the tools to maintain financial control, ensure compliance, and improve operational efficiency.

“We recognise that the financial and operational landscape for property owners is shifting rapidly,” said Richard Lewis, Director of Mixed-Use. “Our new asset management service is designed to provide owners with greater financial clarity, ensure compliance with evolving regulations, and improve operational performance, ultimately protecting investments and enhancing the resident experience.”

With service charges increasing by an average of 41% between 2019 and 2024, significantly outpacing cumulative inflation of 23% (Property Institute's Service Charge Index), property owners are facing growing financial strain. At the same time, rental growth is beginning to stabilise, further squeezing margins. These pressures make it more important than ever to ensure professional oversight of management costs and processes.

“Landlords, developers, and investors require a robust asset management approach to remain competitive,” said Caspar Courage, Director of Rental and Later Living. “Our service is designed to bridge the gap between clients and operational partners, ensuring strategic oversight that drives efficiency, compliance, and long-term value.”

Commonhold reform is also bringing service charges and operational costs under greater scrutiny. The shift towards freehold ownership for flats, alongside increasing costs, means there is a growing need for transparency and efficiency in property management. SAY’s service ensures that operational costs are actively managed and benchmarked, preventing inefficiencies from eroding investment returns.

A recent audit conducted by SAY revealed stark variations in operational efficiency, with one BTR client experiencing a £3,000 variance in cost-per-unit across two London developments. Such inconsistencies highlight the importance of proactive oversight in optimising service charge costs, contractor performance, and financial planning.

SAY’s asset management service offers tailored reviews of management performance, financial oversight, and operational processes. By working closely with property owners, operators, and managing agents, SAY ensures that operational costs are effectively managed, compliance is maintained, and resident experience is prioritised.