In the latest episode of Reinventing Real Estate, hosts Jenna and Jamie Harris sit down with James Whidborne, Head of UK Residential Fund Management at Edmond de Rothschild REIM, to discuss what it takes to build resilient residential portfolios. With more than 20 years’ experience across Build to Rent (BTR), PBSA and European commercial real estate, James brings a measured perspective shaped by market cycles, early-stage innovation and long-hold thinking. From his early career at Savills Investment Management, where he was responsible for two residential funds alongside a strategic land fund, to joining Edmond de Rothschild in 2016, James reflects on how lessons from the Global Financial Crisis continue to shape his approach to risk, capital and long-term value. He goes on to challenge conventional asset class boundaries, arguing that student housing, Co-living and Build to Rent should not be treated as separate silos, but as closely related forms of multifamily living, anchored by demand rather than short-term trends. Key topics include: Why PBSA, BTR, Co-living are variations of multifamily, not separate asset classesThe investment case for mid-market and affordable housing built on demand, income resilience and longevityLessons from the GFC on capital structure, debt negotiations and decision-making under pressureWhy “amenity-light, location-heavy” strategies often outperform over-amenitised schemesThe growing importance of on-site management, operational data and brand loyalty in BTRWhy the next decade of UK real estate will be defined by repricing and repurposing, not new developmentCareer reflections on patience, passion and why real estate is a long game“James brings a rare combination of technical depth and long-term perspective,” said Jamie Harris, Co-Host of the Reinventing Real Estate Podcast. “His experience across cycles and his clarity on what genuinely drives value makes this a hugely relevant conversation for today’s market.” With thoughtful reflections, practical insight and a clear-eyed view on where capital needs to be braver, this episode offers a grounded framework for navigating the UK’s evolving Living Sector and a reminder that long-term success is built on conviction, not noise. Follow, subscribe and join the conversation as we continue to reinvent real estate. Stay up to date: 👉 Subscribe now to stay updated on upcoming episodes! 👉 For more insights, follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram. • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/harrisassociates/ • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/harrisassociates/ 👉 Listen on Apple Podcasts or watch on YouTube. • Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/reinventing-real-estate/id1707988579 • YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HarrisAssociatesLondon ---- This episode was pre-recorded in April 2025. Consequently, certain discussions regarding market conditions and interest rates may no longer reflect current circumstances. We appreciate your understanding.
