Purpose-Built Student Housing – KNOWLODGE project
For students, finding accommodation can be one of the most difficult challenges when moving to a new city for their studies. Unlike other groups of renters, students often face a lack of small, well-designed, functional, and affordable housing options. In recent years, this shortage has been made worse by the growing popularity of short-term rentals, which has reduced the number of apartments available for long-term leasing.
This gap in the rental market has given rise to purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA), a housing solution specifically designed to meet the needs of students. Today, PBSA is gaining popularity not only among students but also among investors who see its long-term potential.
Why Students Choose PBSA
1. Proximity to University Campuses
One of the strongest advantages of PBSA is location. These residences are typically built close to university campuses, allowing students to walk or cycle to class in minutes. This reduces both travel time and transportation costs, while offering students the convenience of living within a short distance of their academic environment. For international students or those relocating from other cities, proximity can make the transition smoother and less stressful.
2. Safety as a Top Priority
For many students and their families, safety is the number one concern when choosing accommodation. Purpose-built student housing addresses this need by offering advanced security features such as controlled entry systems, CCTV cameras, and on-site security staff. These measures create a secure environment that gives peace of mind not only to students but also to parents who are often closely involved in the housing decision. The emphasis on safety is frequently cited as one of the greatest advantages of PBSA, setting it apart from traditional rental options.
3. A Place to Build Community
Living in PBSA is about more than just having a room, it’s about being part of a community. These residences are designed to encourage social interaction through shared spaces and communal activities. Students have the opportunity to meet peers, form friendships, and build networks that often last far beyond their university years. For young adults navigating a new city, this sense of belonging is invaluable.
4. Fully Furnished and All-Inclusive
Another major appeal of PBSA is practicality. Most units come fully furnished, eliminating the need for students to invest in furniture or household essentials. Rental agreements usually include utilities such as Wi-Fi, water, and electricity, as well as maintenance services. This all-inclusive model saves time, reduces unexpected costs, and allows students to focus on their studies and university life.
5. Extra Amenities for Modern Living
Beyond the basics, many purpose-built residences offer a range of modern amenities designed to enhance student life. Gyms, game rooms, cinema rooms, and dedicated study areas are standard features. These added facilities elevate the quality of living, making PBSA attractive not only to students but also to investors, as higher standards of living tend to drive demand and long-term occupancy.
Why Investors Are Turning to PBSA
As student populations grow and cities face ongoing housing shortages, PBSA is becoming one of the most resilient and promising real estate sectors — especially in markets like Greece.
1. Higher and Stable Rental Income
Due to their premium facilities and steady demand, PBSAs can generate higher rental yields than traditional residential properties.
2. Professional, Hands-Off Management
Most PBSAs are managed by specialized operators who take care of everything — maintenance, tenant relations, and security. This makes PBSA a low-effort, passive investment with predictable returns.
3. Strong and Consistent Demand
University enrolments remain high even during economic downturns. With limited supply of quality housing near campuses, PBSAs enjoy stable occupancy throughout the year.
4. Resilient and Future-Proof
Unlike converted buildings, PBSAs are designed specifically for students — meaning they stay relevant, efficient, and easier to maintain over time.
5. Operational Efficiencies and Capital Growth
Multi-storey, purpose-built layouts maximize the number of rentable units in high-demand areas, improving overall returns.
And as demand for quality student housing continues to rise faster than supply, investors also benefit from long-term capital appreciation.
Why Knowlodge is a Great Investment
A strong example of PBSA in action is Knowlodge, a project that will be developed by Oikos Property Developments. Situated near two major universities, it demonstrates how a strategic location, combined with modern amenities, can create significant value for students. Designed as a high-quality PBSA, it combines convenience, comfort, and community, three factors that define successful student living.
For students, Knowlodge will offer modern, well-equipped apartments, shared facilities, and a vibrant social environment designed around the needs of young learners.
For investors, it represents an entry into one of the most resilient and expanding sectors in real estate — student housing.
As Oikos emphasizes It’s not another asset class. It’s a dynamic ecosystem that calls for specialized knowledge, disciplined operations, and awareness of the student experience.
With strong fundamentals and a developer deeply experienced in creating value-driven real estate projects, Knowlodge stands as a forward-looking investment that bridges student needs with long-term investor potential.
In Greece, student housing is now emerging as a particularly dynamic and resilient sector of the real estate market, highlighting the long-term potential of this asset class. With its dual appeal, PBSA is set to play an increasingly important role in shaping the future of student housing.
