Who Can Join?
Associate Members typically include real estate investment managers who may not yet manage funds eligible for full membership, or who are not yet in a position to commit to fund membership but support AREF's principles of sound governance and transparency. Additionally, firms that may not manage funds but uphold AREF's values and wish to contribute to the wider industry can also become Associate Members.
Why Join?
1. Align with Industry Leadership & Values
AREF is widely recognised by policymakers, regulators, and industry bodies as the leading voice of the real estate funds industry. As an Associate Member, your firm will be seen as upholding the same high standards of transparency, integrity, and governance that we champion. You will be part of an esteemed group of professionals committed to building a better, more sustainable industry.
2. Industry Influence & Collaboration
Associate Members can participate in committees and working groups, contributing to AREF’s lobbying and consultation work. This engagement directly benefits your business by influencing the industry’s development and shaping future policy. It also provides valuable networking opportunities, enabling you to interact with leaders across the real estate investment sector.
Read more about our committees and working groups and the work they are doing here.
3. Thought Leadership & Knowledge Sharing
Associate Members are encouraged to collaborate on white papers, research, and industry events—including in-person gatherings, webinars, and podcasts. Through AREF’s growing professional network and social media channels, your firm’s thought leadership can reach an extensive audience.
At AREF, your voice matters. Help shape the conversation, influence the agenda, and be part of the change.
Get involved. Together we can make a difference.
4. Networking & Business Development
Associate Members gain access to a wide range of AREF-hosted events, many of which are free to members, providing opportunities for:
- Networking with fund managers, investors, and other key industry figures
- Sharing knowledge and building connections through events, panels, and workshops
- Sponsorship opportunities to enhance visibility at industry events
View our events calendar and post-event materials.
Associate Members also benefit from a dedicated profile page in the AREF Member Directory, with a direct link to your firm’s website.
5. Full Access for Your Team
Associate Membership is at a corporate level, meaning all employees within the firm can enjoy the full range of AREF member benefits, including:
- Invitations to exclusive networking events and seminars
- Regular industry updates and newsletters
- Access to member-only content on the AREF website
6. FutureGen Network – Supporting the Next Generation
Fund Members can also take advantage of AREF’s FutureGen Network, designed for professionals in the first 10 years of their careers or those not yet in senior management positions.
FutureGen members benefit from:
- Exclusive networking opportunities with peers and senior industry figures
- Access to dedicated networking events and educational sessions tailored to early-career professionals;
- A dedicated FutureGen Annual Conference, tailored for early-career professionals
- Access to industry-leading training and development resources
For more details, visit the FutureGen Network page.
Associate Membership Fees
| Membership Type | Annual Fee (+VAT) |
|---|---|
| Associate Member | £5,975 |
Renewals are due 1st November each year. Fees are pro-rated based on joining date.
How to Apply
If you’re interested in joining AREF, please complete our Enquiry Form, and a member of our team will be in touch.
Application Process
- Initial meeting with an AREF team member
- Submission of the Associate Member Application Form (provided after initial discussion)
- Submission of the membership request to the AREF Board for approval
View a list of our Associate members below: