It will be the framework for a future extraordinary group home for adults with autism. The building is expected completed by mid-2024. We have acted as adviser to the buyer in the transaction. Ny Højtoft is the name of the future group home for adults with autism that will be built in Hvalsø in Lejre Municipality in the central part of Zealand. With the construction of Ny Højtoft the aim is to create architecture that focuses on the people who live there. The construction is built and designed in accordance with the National Autism Society's regulations for interior design, atmosphere, materials, and environment. 

In relation to the project, AkademikerPension has joined forces with the National Autism Association, which recognises the value in constructing responsible, social buildings that consider society, climate and especially people with autism. AkademikerPension calls the initiative "a new branch" in their property strategy - namely the property segment, social infrastructure. The project will be run by Ny Højtoft, which is an organisation within the National Autism Association. 

A lighthouse project
The vision of New Højtoft is to create a so-called 'lighthouse project' that will demonstrate and support an innovative and cross-sectoral solution for an ideal group home for people with autism. Accordingly, the project is intended as a flagship for new approaches on how to optimise the quality of life and potential of people with autism. In combination with the project's paramount social aspect, the construction will be carried out with the greatest possible consideration for the environment, which i.a. means that the buildings will be constructed in wooden modules. Thereby, the investment matches several ESG-related matters, which is a growing focus in the property industry in general. 

An immature market
The investment market for group homes is immature, largely due to the fact that the market has historically been driven by public or non-profit operators. However, a legal amendment in 2018 made it possible for private operators to run private residential care facilities. 

We have followed the development in the market closely, and according to CEO and partner Jacob Lund, it is only now that activity in the segment has begun to stir.

Long waiting list
The waiting list for New Højtoft already exceeds the number of future residential units, which indicates a significant undersupply of group homes for people with autism. Therefore, we expect to see more housing projects like this in the future to support the high demand.

- We are pleased to have advised on a project like this, which is strongly visionary in the social field. We thank the parties for excellent cooperation and look forward to following the project in the future, concludes Jacob Lund.