Kinleigh Folkard & Hayward (KFH) has been appointed as a partner for the lettings and asset management of a major Build to Rent (BTR) portfolio currently being established in London.

The joint venture between Sigma and EQT Real Estate (EQT), launched at the end of September 2020, is targeting the delivery of an initial portfolio of around 3,000 rental homes across Greater London over the next five years with a value of more than £1bn.

The portfolio will feature BTL apartment blocks located in the more affordable parts of Greater London, primarily in TfL Zones 3-6 and close to transport links and including sites with train access to central London.

KFH, which currently oversees a portfolio of 30,000 residential units across London, will be working under the direction of Sigma and all new rental homes will be marketed and let under Sigma’s ‘Simple Life London’ brand.

Paul Masters, group operations director at KFH, said: “We are delighted to have been appointed to lease up and manage assets within this portfolio under the Simple Life London brand, working with EQT Real Estate and Sigma’s exciting joint venture company to establish their presence in the Capital.”

The joint venture’s first homes are at Fresh Wharf, Barking and Beam Park, Rainham and will be launched in February 2021

Masters added: “During the last six months, we have built a close working relationship with the Sigma team in preparation for the imminent first releases in East London.

“This appointment reinforces our position as the essential partner to help deliver Build to Rent solutions to best in class owners in the London market.”

Reflecting on the decision to appoint KFH, Rob Sumner, residential investment director at Sigma, said: “We are very pleased to appoint KFH in readiness for the launch of our first new rental homes in London under our joint venture with EQT Real Estate.

“KFH has established an excellent reputation in the private rental property market in London and their values of exceptional customer service align with ours. We look forward to the launch of our first completed apartments in East London and to welcoming our first Simple Life London residents before the end of April.”