The London rental market is changing fast. Rising demand and limited supply in flexible, short-term living solutions have created a climate where both renters and homeowners are looking for new ways to make housing work.
While we at Cornerstone focus on supporting assignees and their families through every stage of relocation, it’s important to understand what’s happening more broadly in the housing landscape. One recent example that’s caught our attention is a scheme launched by a company called Moovable, offering a cash incentive to homeowners who rent out spare rooms.
So what does this say about the state of the market and how does it affect relocating employees?
An overview of the scheme
Moovable’s “Life Boost” scheme is aimed at London homeowners with a spare room. It offers them a lump sum payment of usually between £3,000 and £15,000 up front. In return, Moovable finds a vetted lodger to live in the room for a fixed term (typically 6 to 24 months). Rent is collected directly from the lodger by Moovable, who uses that income to recoup the lump sum paid to the homeowner. The homeowner also receives a small share of the rent and a bonus at the end of the contract.
For the homeowner, it’s a way to access quick cash without the stress of finding or managing a tenant. For the lodger, it opens up more vetted, affordable accommodation options in areas where traditional rentals might be out of reach.
But for those of us supporting corporate relocations, it’s also a signal that creative solutions are filling the gaps where the mainstream rental market can’t keep up.
What it tells us about the London rental market
The popularity of schemes like this highlights that demand still far outpaces supply, especially in well-connected areas with good schools and local amenities. In addition, short-term rentals remain limited, and corporate housing is increasingly expensive.
We can see that more individuals are willing to consider flexible living arrangements, especially young professionals and short-term assignees. And even homeowners are looking for new income streams, a reminder of how inflation and rising mortgage rates are impacting Londoners across the board.
Why is this important for Corporate Relocation?
At Cornerstone, we work with companies who are relocating staff to London and the wider UK. And while most of our clients won’t be renting a spare room through Moovable, the story behind the scheme is relevant. It shows just how dynamic and at times unpredictable the London rental landscape has become.
It also reinforces something we tell clients every day, that relocation planning should start as early as possible, especially when housing is involved.
How can we help?
Relocating to a new city is more than just finding a place to live, but it’s about settling in with confidence. Whether it’s a family needing space near schools or a professional working in tech, we tailor every move based on individual priorities and market realities.
Here’s how we support our clients through the housing challenge:
- Expert property search support, with up-to-date knowledge of London’s rental landscape
- Short-term and interim accommodation options, ideal for bridging the gap between arrival and permanent housing
- School and neighbourhood guidance, helping families make informed decisions
- Relocation and settling-in services that take care of logistics so the focus stays on the move itself
Whether you’re moving one person or an entire team, get in touch to find out how we can support your move, from visa advice to finding the perfect home.