Raven Housing Trust Acquires 2,227 Orbit Homes
Raven Housing Trust has purchased 2,227 homes from Orbit Group, expanding its portfolio to over 9,500 homes across nine South East local authorities to boost affordable housing supply.
Orbit Group has sold 2,227 homes to Raven Housing Trust for an undisclosed sum. The acquisition increases Raven's portfolio to more than 9,500 homes across nine local authorities in the South East of England.
The sale includes a range of tenures such as general needs, leasehold, shared ownership, and supported living properties. It followed a consultation with Orbit's customers. The transfer was completed in phases, with the majority of homes handed over immediately.
Transfer details and strategy
The remaining homes will follow a phased transfer plan. Proceeds from the sale will be reinvested by Raven into its existing stock and new homes as part of its 2030 Strategy. This deal marks a significant expansion for Raven, which has grown its portfolio from over 7,000 to more than 9,500 homes.
For Orbit, the sale aligns with a strategy to optimise its core geographical areas. The group manages approximately 46,000 affordable homes across the Midlands, East, and South East of England. Its 2030 strategy includes delivering 7,000 new and regenerated affordable homes.
Executive perspectives
Orbit's chief executive, Phil Andrew, stated the group is working to focus its presence. He argued that customers receive the best service when their landlord has a strong local footprint. Reducing the number of local authorities it operates in allows Orbit to concentrate on improving customer satisfaction, value for money, and services.
Andrew expressed confidence that Raven Housing Trust would provide long-term benefits for the customers transferring. He said Orbit will now expand its presence in its core areas to provide more people with good-quality, affordable homes.
Jonathan Higgs, chief executive of Raven Housing Trust, called the deal an exciting milestone. "This transfer strengthens our ability to invest in homes, services and communities, creating an even greater positive impact for both existing and new customers," Higgs said. He added that it expands their capacity to provide more affordable homes, support more people, and build stronger communities.
Financing and advisory context
The transaction was supported by significant financing and advisory teams. Orbit Group secured a £195 million financing package from Lloyds Banking Group at the start of the year. This funding is earmarked for upgrading thousands of social homes as part of a sustainability drive.
Orbit also raised £250 million via a 15-year sustainable bond in August to support its 2030 strategy. In the 2025-26 financial year, Orbit reported completing 1,094 new homes, a 21% annual increase. It spent £142 million on maintaining and improving its existing stock, a £7 million decrease from the prior year.
Legal advice for the sale was provided by multiple firms. Orbit was advised by Clarke Willmott and JLL. Raven Housing Trust was advised by Trowers & Hamlins, Campbell Tickell, and Savills. Trowers & Hamlins also advised Raven on £250 million of new loan facilities for the housing association. The phased transfer of homes continues to expand Raven's capacity in the South East.
