Uniplaces

Uniplaces operates as an online marketplace specializing in student accommodation, aiming to simplify the rental process for both students and landlords. The company was established in 2011 by Miguel Amaro, Mariano Kostelec, and Ben Grech. The founding team's personal experiences with the challenges of finding student housing abroad directly informed the creation of the platform. Miguel Amaro, for instance, studied in both London and Singapore, while Ben Grech also studied abroad, and Mariano Kostelec brought experience from the investment banking sector with a focus on online businesses. This combination of firsthand frustration with the problem and business acumen has been central to Uniplaces' development.

The firm's business model is centered on providing a secure and streamlined booking service for mid-to-long-term rentals. It targets international and domestic students who require accommodation for their academic terms. For students, the platform offers a wide range of verified properties, from rooms in shared apartments to private studios, aiming to remove the need for in-person viewings. A key feature is the 'Uniplaces Guarantee,' which provides a 24-hour safety period after the move-in date, offering a refund if the accommodation does not match the listing's description. The company generates revenue by charging a one-time service fee to the student upon a successful booking, which is a percentage of the total contract value. For landlords, Uniplaces offers a channel to reach a global audience of students, helping to reduce vacancies and manage bookings efficiently.

Since its inception, Uniplaces has focused on expanding its presence across key European university cities. The company has facilitated bookings for students from over 175 countries, demonstrating its global reach. Significant milestones include securing multiple rounds of funding, notably a $24 million Series A round in 2015, which fueled its international expansion efforts. This investment allowed the company to grow its team and establish a stronger foothold in markets such as the UK, Spain, Germany, Italy, and Portugal.

Keywords: student accommodation, online marketplace, property rental, proptech, international students, long-term rentals, booking platform, shared housing, real estate technology, student housing