When Andy and Julie approached retirement age, they never imagined their property investment journey would lead them to make such a profound impact on the lives of vulnerable children. Their story is a testament to the power of education, persistence, and partnership in the world of supported living investments.

The couple's property journey began with a focus on HMOs (Houses in Multiple Occupation) as a retirement income strategy. However, everything changed when they discovered Supported Living Gateway during the lockdown period. Andy, a firm believer in proper training, was immediately drawn to the comprehensive course offered by the Gateway. This decision would prove to be pivotal in their investment journey.

After completing the course, Andy and Julie listed their properties on the Gateway's platform. While they received interest from various care providers, they were cautious about partnering with inexperienced or rapidly expanding businesses. The Gateway's teachings emphasised the importance of having multiple exit strategies and conducting thorough due diligence, principles that the couple took to heart.

Their patience paid off when they connected with a reputable care provider specializing in long-term placements for looked-after children. This partnership, facilitated by Supported Living Gateway, marked the beginning of a new chapter in their investment strategy.

One of the most surprising aspects of their transition to supported living investments was the complete reversal in their property acquisition strategy. Andy explains, "It's strange, because it is absolutely the opposite end of that process of buying dirty, rundown properties and adding value. We want properties that are already family homes and ready to move into." This shift in approach opened up a whole new world of possibilities. Instead of competing for below-market-value properties that needed extensive renovation, Andy and Julie could now consider a wider range of homes at market rates. This not only expanded their options but also simplified the acquisition process. The value in these investments isn't created through physical improvements, but through the lease agreements and the social purpose they serve. As Andy puts it, "You're adding value through a legal process."

This revelation challenged their preconceptions about property investment and demonstrated the unique advantages of the supported living model. It's a testament to the flexibility and innovation that Supported Living Gateway encourages in its investors, showing that there are multiple paths to creating value in property investment.

Over the last 18 to 24 months, Andy and Julie have developed five supported living homes, housing 2 to 3 children in each home. The benefits of their supported living investments has quickly became apparent. With 20-year lease agreements in place, these properties offer a hands-off investment opportunity that has complemented their existing HMO portfolio. The strategy has also provided immediate capital value creation and is SSAS (Small Self-Administered Scheme) compliant, offering attractive options for pension investments.

Perhaps most rewarding is the social impact of their investments. Each home they created provides a stable, long-term environment for vulnerable children, positively affecting not just the children but their families as well. This aspect of their investment strategy brings a sense of purpose and fulfillment that goes beyond financial returns.

Andy credits much of their success to the support and guidance provided by Supported Living Gateway. The platform's network and expertise were instrumental in helping them navigate this new investment area. The importance of persistence, focus, and professional support when venturing into supported living investments cannot be underestimated.

Looking to the future, Andy and Julie see their supported living properties as a lasting legacy for their children. They're even considering diversifying further by partnering with other care providers, always with the goal of creating more homes for those in need.

Their journey from HMO investors to supported living property partners illustrates the potential of this investment strategy. It offers a unique opportunity to generate returns while making a significant positive impact on society.

Through Supported Living Gateway's guidance, Andy and Julie not only diversified their property portfolio but also created a meaningful difference in the lives of vulnerable children.

This success story showcases how property investors can transform their portfolios, achieve their financial goals, and contribute to social good. It's a powerful example of how ethical investment and profitability go hand in hand in the world of supported living, challenging traditional notions of property investment and opening new doors for those willing to explore innovative strategies.