How an Overseas Investor Helped People Facing Homelessness
One of our property investor members, David Thompson, was relocating to Australia for work and needed a secure, hands-off tenant for his two rental properties in Manchester. He was drawn to The Social Impact Investment Platform as a way to make a meaningful impact while ensuring his properties were well-managed without the usual landlord responsibilities.
Housing and care providers often offer long-term leases with no voids, making them ideal tenants for investors who want reliable income without the hassle of day-to-day property management.
Partnering with a Community Housing Provider
David listed his properties on The Social Impact Investment Platform, where he was soon contacted by a community interest company (CIC)—a social enterprise dedicated to providing housing and support for people facing homelessness in Greater Manchester.
The CIC arranged a viewing of David’s two-bedroom flat, and after discussions, they agreed to take it on a five-year lease. As they were actively seeking more properties in the area, they also agreed to lease his three-bedroom house under the same terms.
Providing Stability and Support for Those in Need
The CIC’s mission is to help vulnerable individuals transition into stable accommodation by providing weekly support sessions focused on:
- Building life skills such as budgeting and job applications
- Accessing training and employment opportunities
- Referrals for mental health or addiction support
Their priority is self-contained units with good access to public transport—both of which David’s properties offered.
Who Moved In?
🏠 The Two-Bedroom Flat: Now home to two young men, 18 and 19 years old, both of whom had spent years in the care system and were struggling with unstable housing, hostels, and addiction. With support from the CIC, one has now started a carpet-fitting apprenticeship, while the other is receiving guidance to enroll in an online course.
🏡 The Three-Bedroom House: A young couple with a three-year-old daughter moved in after being evicted from their previous home. After losing work and struggling with mental health challenges, they had accumulated debt and were at risk of becoming homeless. Now, with support from the CIC, they are getting help to repay debts and find employment, while remaining close to their friends and family.
A Win-Win Solution for Investor and Residents
David’s properties required only minor cosmetic improvements, which the CIC handled on his behalf. The organization takes full responsibility for:
✅ Placing tenants and ensuring they receive the right support
✅ Managing property maintenance, inspections, and inventories
✅ Covering all void periods with guaranteed rent
✅ No management fees
✅ Rent set above Local Housing Allowance (LHA) rates, ensuring David earns higher net income
Thanks to this hands-free investment model, David now enjoys secure rental income while living abroad—knowing his properties are well-managed and making a difference in people’s lives.
A Trusted Platform for Social Impact Investment
"We’ve used The Social Impact Investment Platform since it was first established, and during this time, we have secured two properties for our residents. It was a smooth process, and the communication has been superb. We will continue to use The Social Impact Investment Platform to help provide more safe and stable accommodation for those in need."
