A currently low-profile service that helps landlords manage portfolios or even sell their properties to tenants says it’s raised a big cash investment in the ‘double digit’ millions.

Homely says the injection, from US-based tech platform UST, will allow it to beef up its own tech capabilities and its marketing.

Homely says its three-fold aims are to help landlords and tenants manage properties better; to enable tenants get on the property ladder; and to help landlords sell their properties to existing tenants.

The service – already two years old but under-the-radar to many landlords – says it can also help landlords cut void times and increase tenant retention.

It also says it’s forging links with other property industry players – talks are ongoing with Aviva, for example.

Chief executive Lewis Scott says: “At such a crucial moment for the property market, this first round capital raise will allow Homely to help more people on their journey to homeownership.

“When it feels like buying a home, or qualifying for a mortgage, is moving further and further out of reach, Homely is committed to providing innovative solutions, underpinned by technology.”