Author: Jessica Jonzen

Chelsea and Belgravia: the Prime Central London Neighbourhoods to Watch

Posted on by Jessica Jonzen

These two elegant enclaves of central London are enjoying something of a quiet renaissance. And for buyers who are open-minded – and savvy – there’s real opportunity to be found, writes Will Watson, Head of The Buying Solution

Chelsea townhouses ©Sarah Frances Kelley for The Buying Solution
Sarah Frances Kelley for The Buying Solution

With the RHS Chelsea Flower Show just around the corner, Chelsea and Belgravia – two of the grande dames of Prime Central London – are looking their botanical best. These are neighbourhoods I know intimately, and lately, I’ve found myself encouraging clients to take a second look.

I’ll say it plainly: these two London enclaves haven’t been in vogue recently. They’ve been somewhat edged out of the spotlight by the likes of Notting Hill, Holland Park and Kensington, where demand has surged post-Covid thanks to their broader layouts, lateral space and larger gardens.

But for those willing to broaden their search, Chelsea and Belgravia currently represent some of the best value we’ve seen in over a decade.

The Price Gap That’s Turning Heads

In today’s market, price per square foot is telling. You can now buy in parts of Chelsea and Belgravia for close to £1,500 per square foot. To put that in context, that’s comparable to what you’d pay in some parts of South West London. For Prime Central London postcodes with internationally recognised names, that’s remarkable.

Why the softness? Quite simply, demand hasn’t been as fierce. While overseas buyers and Brits alike have flocked to buzzy West London hotspots, Chelsea and Belgravia have seen quieter activity. That might sound like a disadvantage – but from a buyer’s point of view, it’s exactly the sort of window of opportunity we look for.

Pavilion Road, Chelsea ©Sarah Frances Kelley
Sarah Frances Kelley for The Buying Solution

Chelsea: Character, Creativity and Enduring Appeal

Few corners of Prime Central London balance polish and personality quite like Chelsea. Stylish without being showy, it manages the elusive feat of feeling both cosmopolitan and neighbourly – a rarity among its ultra-prime peers.

One of Chelsea’s real strengths is its sense of community. Around the garden squares such as Carlyle, Chelsea and Burton Court – residents come together for seasonal events, weekend markets and school holidays. There’s a rhythm to life here that’s genuinely fulfilling and sets Chelsea apart from shinier but more transient enclaves nearby.

Architecturally, Chelsea is a pleasingly eclectic affair. From Georgian and Victorian townhouses to Arts and Crafts gems and Edwardian villas, it offers more variety than you might expect. That mix makes it feel layered and interesting – never sterile.

The King’s Road still hums with energy, albeit more considered than its 1960s heyday. Today’s blend of designer flagships and independent boutiques gives it a retail relevance that continues to draw discerning shoppers. The Duke of York Square fine food market, held every Saturday, is a weekend staple, and the two-year £46 million refurbishment of Sloane Street has brought a welcome gloss to this already prestigious postcode.

But perhaps Chelsea’s most compelling asset is its artistic pedigree. The blue plaques scattered through the neighbourhood read like a Who’s Who of British cultural history. J.M.W. Turner painted marine scenes just off Cheyne Walk. The Pre-Raphaelites – Rossetti, Holman Hunt, Collier – settled here for the light and the company. Bram Stoker, author of Dracula, lived on St Leonard’s Terrace. The Chelsea Arts Club, founded in 1890, became a hub for creative exchange, and by the 1920s the area boasted the highest concentration of professional artists in London. The author of Mary Poppins, P.L. Travers, lived and worked at 50 Smith Street, just off the King’s Road.

And this artistic tradition continued. From the creation of The Beatles’ seminal Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band album cover at Chelsea Manor Studios to punk’s genesis on the King’s Road with Vivienne Westwood and Malcolm McLaren. Today, the Saatchi Gallery in Duke of York Square continues to champion new and provocative talent.

Add to that the Royal Court Theatre’s trailblazing programming – most recently Giant, starring John Lithgow, which transferred to the West End – plus proximity to the South Kensington museums, Battersea Park’s green expanse, and a choice of high-performing schools, and Chelsea’s appeal becomes clear. It is that rare thing: a prime London address with genuine soul.

Neville Chamberlain's blue plaque Belgravia ©Sarah Frances Kelley for The Buying Solution
Sarah Frances Kelley for The Buying Solution

Belgravia: Classical Beauty, Renewed Energy

Belgravia, meanwhile, has always been a symbol of timeless London: grand terraces, private garden squares, and a sense of old-world elegance you simply can’t recreate. Once home to Prime Ministers, actors and rock stars, Belgravia’s cultural cachet is still a draw. What’s exciting today is that it’s being subtly revitalised, attracting a younger buyer.

You only need to walk down Motcomb Street – now pedestrianised and full of life – to feel the change. Independent boutiques, refined restaurants such as Michelin-starred Pétrus by Gordon Ramsay and Amaya, as well as destination hotels The Berkeley and The Hari hotel, give it an international energy. Then there’s Elizabeth Street, near Chester Square – regarded as one of the prettiest streets in London – and full of independent boutiques and cosy pubs and restaurants. It’s where you’ll find the Jo Loves flagship store, famed milliner Philip Treacy, and Samantha Cameron’s label Cefinn, as well as Summerill & Bishop for homeware and the Tomtom Cigars and coffee lounge.

Yes, the architecture here can be formal – these are tall, narrow townhouses, many of them listed. But they’re also beautiful. Eaton Square, Belgrave Square, Chesham Place – these are some of the capital’s most iconic addresses. And for those who value heritage, privacy and centrality, Belgravia is hard to beat.

Its location is one of its strongest assets. You’re on the doorstep of Mayfair, Hyde Park, Sloane Street and the West End – and yet, Belgravia remains incredibly serene. It’s perfect for buyers who want classic London with a dash of discretion. It may not shout for attention – but it quietly impresses.

Why Buy Now?

As well as being neighbours, what ties Chelsea and Belgravia together is their current positioning in the market. While other neighbourhoods such as Notting Hill or Kensington have surged in recent years, Chelsea and Belgravia have remained more stable. And that’s where the opportunity lies.

If you’re buying for the long term, these are well-established, globally recognised locations with incredible fundamentals: beautiful architecture, prime positioning, world-class retail and culture. And because they haven’t been in the spotlight recently, they offer genuine value.

Which is Right for You?

If you want quiet grandeur, proximity to the West End, and architectural consistency, Belgravia delivers. If you’re after a neighbourhood atmosphere, variety and a strong community feel, Chelsea has the edge.

They’re not trying to be trendy, and that’s their strength. These are areas that know who they are – and right now, they offer a compelling combination of stability, style and long-term value.

So when clients ask me where to focus their search in Prime Central London today, I often say: don’t follow the noise. Instead, look where the foundations are strongest – and the future still quietly promising. Chelsea and Belgravia might just surprise you.

Will Watson, Head of The Buying Solution

Will Watson is Head of The Buying Solution


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The Hampshire Valleys: Understated Country Living

Posted on by Jessica Jonzen

For those looking to balance a manageable commute to London with a true country lifestyle, the Hampshire Valleys are emerging as a quiet powerhouse in the county’s prime property landscape. With their combination of unspoilt natural beauty, vibrant villages, attractive houses and excellent connectivity to London, the Candover, Meon, Test, Itchen and Bourne valleys offer a rarefied market that is both under the radar and highly resilient, writes our Southern Counties specialist Jake Civardi

River Test Hampshire Valleys

When my wife and I left London in 2010 with a new baby and a growing sense that the city no longer suited the life we wanted, we went in search of somewhere with a sense of place. We found it in Hampshire.

We wanted open countryside within reach of London, access to excellent schools, and a village life that felt authentic and meaningful. But over time — and now having spent more than a decade advising clients on their own transitions — I’ve come to understand more clearly why the Hampshire Valleys hold such enduring appeal.

Rural Connectivity

The Hampshire Valleys form the backbone of this unique part of southern England. The River Test — widely regarded as the birthplace of modern fly fishing — flows through some of the country’s most ecologically rich and unspoilt chalk streams, globally rare and crystal-clear, threading their way through farmland, rolling downland and pretty villages which serve as vibrant community hubs.

Despite their bucolic appeal, these valleys remain exceptionally well connected. Many of my clients are surprised to discover just how accessible the area is — often expecting a greater compromise on commuting in exchange for rural tranquillity. Yet a train from Basingstoke reaches London Waterloo in just 45 minutes, while Winchester offers a direct journey in around an hour. The A3 and M3 provide fast road access to London and the wider southeast, and with Gatwick, Heathrow and Southampton airports all within easy reach, national and international travel is remarkably straightforward for such a rural setting.

The Right Place

When clients are considering a move to the country, my advice is to remember it’s not all about buying a pretty house, it’s about being in the right place. Having a local hub is incredibly important for making a successful move.

For example, Longstock in the Test Valley is a lovely little Hampshire village: it has a pub (the Peat Spade Inn), it has a community, and is right next to the desirable town of Stockbridge on the River Test. It ticks a lot of boxes. So, are you more likely to consider a plainer house here than a charming cottage on the outskirts of Andover? Absolutely.

What draws people here isn’t just aesthetics; it’s the Hampshire Valleys’ unique access. Bordered by Dorset, Wiltshire, Berkshire, Surrey and West Sussex, there is a vast array of activities within striking distance. Within an hour you can be sailing on the Solent, paddleboarding down the Beaulieu River in the New Forest, or hiking the South Downs or North Wessex Downs.

Whilst elsewhere in the country village pubs may be struggling, here in Hampshire we’re spoiled for choice. The Chestnut Horse in Easton near Winchester on the Avington Estate was recently refurbished by its new owners to include beautifully decorated rooms and a deli. The Greyhound on the Test in Stockbridge is a local favourite, while the popular Woolpack Inn in Totford, is currently being refurbished, as is the Purefoy Arms in Preston Candover.

The School Factor

The Hampshire Valleys are also home to some of the country’s most respected schools, both state and independent, many of which draw families out of London year after year.

In Winchester, St Swithun’s is a leading independent girls’ school with an outstanding reputation. The Pilgrims’ School, located next to the cathedral is regarded as a feeder school for Winchester College which needs little introduction.

Younger families often look to Twyford School, just outside Winchester, which consistently comes up in conversations with relocating parents. Likewise, Farleigh school near Andover offers an exceptional Catholic co-ed prep experience.

Among the state options, Perins School in Arlesford and the sixth form Peter Symonds College in Winchester both have sterling reputations, with a high rate of students winning places at Oxford or Cambridge.

And for families with children already at top senior schools, Hampshire’s location is hard to beat — Eton, Radley and Marlborough (my former school) are all within easy reach, making weekly or even daily travel feasible.

The Long View

What has preserved the distinctive character of the Hampshire Valleys is long-term stewardship. With several significant landowners in the area, it is protected from development, while the limited supply of housing stock helps to underpin the Hampshire Valleys’ long-term value.

Having made the move myself, I bring clarity to the process — evaluating not just the house, but the village, the connectivity, the flood risk, the broadband, and yes, whether the pub is open on a Monday. As a local, I’m often first to hear about new properties which may be coming to market.

Prices here seldom make headlines, but demand for the best houses — Georgian red brick, river frontage, secondary accommodation or potential for regenerative land use — is intense. This is a discreet, opaque market where much of the best property never sees the open market. For buyers prioritising land, legacy and low-profile luxury, local knowledge and trusted access aren’t just helpful — they’re indispensable.

For those seeking more than just a house — whether for family, balance or a new pace of life — the Hampshire Valleys offer something rare: understated beauty, deep-rooted community and long-term resilience.

Jake Civardi, Southern Counties Specialist

Jake Civardi is our specialist Partner in the Southern Counties.

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IWD: Celebrating the Women of The Buying Solution

Posted on by Jessica Jonzen

This International Women’s Day, the women who make The Buying Solution the success that it is, reflect on their experiences, their career trajectories, the challenges they have navigated and the progress still to be made


The female team behind The Buying Solution

The property industry has long been regarded as a traditionally male-dominated field. However, women are increasingly taking on leadership roles in property, driving strategic decisions and reshaping the landscape.

At The Buying Solution, we take immense pride in our female-centric team. In 2024, we strengthened our ranks by welcoming two new female Partners – Toto Lambert in London and Katherine Watters in the South Home Counties – alongside Georgina Neil as a Cotswolds Buying Agent. With Jemma Scott as Partner for the North Home Counties, our female buying agents are continuing to bring immense value – both to our business and our culture.

Behind the scenes, our Buying Agents would simply be unable to provide the exceptional service they do without the dedication and hard work of our support team. We share some of their experiences here.

Breaking Through the Glass Ceiling

Jemma Scott, Partner for North Home Counties, recalls a time when she would often be “the only woman in the room.” While diversity has long been understood as key to building a successful team, implementation has taken time. Yet, in a recent virtual client meeting – comprised of a solicitor, architect, planning consultant, and herself – Jemma found herself entirely surrounded by female professionals. “It hadn’t been intentional, simply a case of the client having the best people for the job,” she notes. “It was a fleeting but significant moment of recognition before we returned to the business at hand – waste drainage!”

For women seeking to advance in the sector, Jemma’s advice is straightforward: “Ignore the noise, just focus on being the best you can be. And don’t do it alone – prioritise diversity and collaboration above all else.”

Meritocracy in Action

As Partner in our London office, Toto Lambert’s career trajectory demonstrates the potential for upward mobility within the property sector. Having started as a Team Secretary, she became a Partner at just 28. “It was challenging but also incredibly rewarding,” she says. Toto is particularly proud of rising to Partner alongside two other female colleagues who, like her, began their careers in administrative roles.

For those entering the industry, she emphasises the importance of confidence and authenticity. “Shine bright! Women have an amazing, natural ability to connect with others so don’t be afraid to lean into both your strength and your softer side,” she says. “Give yourself permission to take up space, let your personality shine and above all, support other women. Together, we rise!”

The Evolution of Workplace Culture

The industry has, in recent years, demonstrated greater adaptability to the needs of a more diverse workforce. Georgina Neil, our Cotswolds Buying Agent, highlights the progress made in flexible working arrangements. “In the last five years, attitudes have changed and there is far more flexibility which allows both women and men to juggle the demands of a career and family life. This is allowing women to maintain and advance their careers, when previously they may have had to step back.”

Katherine Watters, Partner for the Southern Home Counties, also acknowledges the progress made but warns against certain trends. She points to the rise of the social media-driven “influencer agent” as a potential risk to the professionalism of the industry. “Women have established themselves in this sector based on expertise, negotiation skills and results. I think it’s a very exciting time for women in property as we now have a seat at the table and a voice,” she says. “We must be careful not to dilute this progress with a focus on image over substance.”

The Critical Role of Support Functions

The success of any property agency relies not only on those negotiating deals but also on those operating behind the scenes. Karen Michel, Business Support Coordinator in our Country office, has spent three decades in the industry, and underscores the importance of support roles as a foundation for growth. “Property is one of the few industries where support staff can transition into fee-earning roles,” she explains. “I began my career as a secretary and was promoted to a lettings negotiator and went on to run five offices. Opportunities exist for those willing to take them.”

Both Poppy Hilton, Business Support Coordinator in our London office, and Jennifer Hudson, Associate and Operations Executive, echo this sentiment, emphasising adaptability, attention to detail, and a willingness to continuously learn as key attributes for success. “Stay confident in your decisions and never underestimate the value of your role,” says Poppy. “Support roles are integral to a property buying agency,” Jennifer agrees. “It is incredibly fulfilling to know that my work behind the scenes helps ensure our clients’ journey toward securing one of the most significant purchases of their lives is as smooth as possible.”

A More Inclusive Future

While notable progress has been made, there is still work to be done to create a truly inclusive and supportive industry. As firms continue to recognise the importance of flexibility and diversity, the sector will likely see an increasing number of female leaders.

“I feel very lucky to be part of a team which fully supports women in all stages of their life and career, however, the wider industry still has a lot of work to do,” says Toto. “I think the industry will start seeing more female leaders when firms support and celebrate flexibility to support women in all stages of life – from early career development to maternity, menopause and beyond. Being trusted and having the autonomy to work in a way that best supports your health and those around you will enable women to have long and fulfilling careers, at every level.”

This International Women’s Day, we recognise not only the achievements of women in property but also the ongoing work required to ensure the industry continues to evolve – on the basis of talent, expertise and merit.

internationalwomensday.com

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How VAT on UK Private Schools is Impacting the Property Market

Posted on by Jessica Jonzen

The UK government’s decision to add VAT to private school fees which came into play this month, framed as a move to reduce inequality, is sparking debate beyond education. Whilst it is too early to say what definitive impact this increase will make, early signs suggest it could have significant ripple effects on the British property market, writes Katherine Watters, The Buying Solution’s Partner for the Southern Home Counties.

STOCK Group of schoolgirls (5-7) London, England.jpg low res

A Strain on Family Budgets

The imposition of VAT on private school fees adds up to 20% to already substantial costs, creating a financial pinch point for many middle-income families. For wealthier households – those insulated by substantial assets and high incomes – this change is unlikely to significantly alter their choices. The most prestigious private schools will likely retain their exclusivity, with little effort to moderate fees. On the contrary, these institutions may even double down on their elite status, becoming less accessible to a broader demographic.

However, for dual-income families balancing private school fees with rising mortgage costs and the higher cost of living, the VAT increase is proving to be a tipping point. Anecdotes from my region of Surrey and Sussex already indicate that families are considering pulling children out of private schools and transitioning to the state sector, or exploring international opportunities in order to afford the school fees for their choice of schools. I am aware of three local families who have recently accepted lucrative overseas job postings, driven directly by the financial impact of VAT on school fees. With their children already registered at top-tier institutions like Eton, relocating abroad has become their only viable option to fulfil their educational plans. Such stories underscore the financial gymnastics now required to maintain private education.

State Schools and Grammar Catchment Areas: Property Hotspots

The shift in demand toward state schools, particularly grammar schools, is already impacting the property market. As families reconsider private education, catchment areas for top-performing state schools are becoming increasingly competitive. There are currently 163 state-funded grammar schools across England with the largest number found in Kent (38), London (19), Lincolnshire (15), Buckinghamshire (13), Essex (eight) and Birmingham (eight). Proximity to a strong state or grammar school has always been a draw, but the new pressure from families exiting the private system is likely to intensify the scramble for homes in these coveted zones.

Conversely, areas around smaller private schools, which were previously buoyed by steady enrolment, could face cooling property prices. Many such schools are consolidating to survive – forming federations to pool resources and remain viable. While this consolidation secures the future of these schools, it signals potential declines in local property demand as families reconsider their educational priorities.

Implications for the State Sector

The migration from private to state schools may also have unintended consequences for the state education system, which is already under pressure. Increased demand for places in top-performing schools will push local councils to expand capacity, potentially altering the dynamics of residential areas. Overcrowding and stretched resources could create a new set of challenges, driving further polarisation within the education system. Simultaneously, the influx of higher-income families into the state system may fuel rising house prices in well-regarded school districts.

Mortgage Pressures and Downsizing Decisions

The broader economic context – high interest rates and mortgage costs – is exacerbating the strain. Families who leveraged historically low interest rates to trade up the property ladder are now grappling with significantly higher monthly repayments. This shift is reducing disposable income previously allocated to private school fees, luxury purchases, or travel.

As a result, some homeowners are quietly putting their properties on the market which presents opportunities for buyers. Downsizing is emerging as a strategic move, freeing up equity to cover school fees or reduce mortgage payments. This trend is evident in commuter belts like Surrey and Sussex, where large family homes are appearing in private sales. Such moves illustrate a recalibration of priorities, with families opting to downsize their homes to preserve educational aspirations.

A Mixed Market Outlook

In the broader property market, the VAT policy is contributing to a landscape that is already complex. The post-COVID property boom, characterised by inflated prices and fierce competition, is normalising. Some regions, particularly in the super-prime market, are seeing more realistic valuations and renewed activity. However, stock remains limited, and affordability continues to dominate decision-making for many.

For agents operating in commuter towns and popular rural locations, the mood is cautiously optimistic. Valuations and transactions are picking up, and spring 2025 is expected to bring more movement as vendors and buyers adapt to the new normal. Catchment areas for strong state schools and accessible rural hotspots, such as the Surrey Hills and the South Downs, are likely to remain resilient.

How The Buying Solution Can Help

As with many fiscal policies, the effects of VAT on private schools will fully reveal themselves over time – and possibly the law of unintended consequences – rippling through education, property and lifestyle choices. For families, schools and property markets alike, adaptation will be key in navigating this period of transformation. Our specialist buying agents, together with our network of leading education consultants, can offer highly personalised advice on everything from catchment areas and desirable locations to ensuring you make a sustainable investment, helping you to make confident and well-informed decisions for you and your family.

Katherine Watters, The Buying Solution Partner, Southern Home Counties

Katherine Watters is our specialist Partner for the Southern Home Counties

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In the Press: The Buying Solution in Country Life

Posted on by Jessica Jonzen

Our Partner Harry Gladwin speaks to Anna White for Country Life about the rise of the rural supercar, where you’re as likely to see an Aston Martin in the Cotswolds as you are in Knightsbridge.

Classic Rolls Royce ©Sarah Frances Kelley for The Buying Solution
Sarah Frances Kelley for The Buying Solution

Read the article here.

Highlights from The Buying Solution in 2024

Posted on by Jessica Jonzen

As 2024 draws to a close, Will Watson, Head of The Buying Solution, reflects on a year of change, growth and opportunity.

Sarah Frances Kelley for The Buying Solution

As I reflect on 2024, it’s clear that this has been a transformative year for The Buying Solution and for me personally. Taking on the role of Head of The Buying Solution in May was a great privilege and offered me an opportunity to reinvigorate the business. My goal was to inject fresh energy into the firm and create a culture that reflects our ambition and expertise. Now, as the year comes to a close, I’m proud of the strides we’ve made together as a team.

One of the most exciting developments has been strengthening our team with three exceptional hires: Toto Lambert as Partner in our London office, Katherine Watters as Partner covering the Southern Home Counties, and Georgina Neil as a Buying Agent covering the Cotswolds. Each of them brings unique perspectives and expertise that have already made a significant impact on our business and brought a new dimension to it. As female Partners, Katherine and Toto have not only enhanced our reach but also broadened our professional and personal networks in London and the country. Watching their contributions complement our existing strengths has been a real highlight for me.

Fostering a collaborative and unified culture at The Buying Solution has been another key priority. Seeing this camaraderie between colleagues and mutual support take shape has been hugely rewarding.
One of the most gratifying trends has been the surge in client referrals. This year, more than ever, we’ve had past clients recommending our services to friends and family, which is a testament to the trust we’ve built. It’s this reputation that enables us to unlock opportunities that others simply can’t access. In fact, over 60% of the properties we’ve secured for clients this year have been off-market – a true reflection of our ability to deliver beyond the ordinary.

From a market perspective, 2024 has certainly had its uncertainties. Yet, we’ve seen a marked resilience, especially in London. The capital remains a focal point for global wealth, despite the political and economic noise. While some headlines might suggest an exodus, the reality is different. Clients have explored alternatives – Milan, Dubai, the US – but time and again, they return to London, drawn by its unparalleled lifestyle, culture, and connectivity. Yes, it’s always been an expensive city, and it’s becoming more so, but for those who understand its value, there’s simply no substitute.

Looking beyond London, the well-trodden path from city to countryside has continued to appeal, with clients seeking more space and a change of pace. One of my colleagues shared a story about a family moving to a rural spot in the Home Counties. Initially, they had reservations about leaving London, but with guidance and support, they made the leap – and haven’t looked back. These moments, where we help clients find not just a house but a true home, are what make this work so fulfilling.

Of course, our role is not just to facilitate; it’s to advise. There have been times this year when we’ve had to counsel clients against properties they initially thought they wanted. In one instance, a family fell for a house that, while charming, was in the wrong location and would have been a financial and emotional burden. After detailed discussions, they trusted our advice, held off, and ultimately secured a property far better suited to their needs. These are the decisions that define our commitment to our clients’ best interests.

Our reach continues to expand as well. This year, we’ve worked with clients from across the globe, including Japan and Finland, navigating language barriers and cultural differences to deliver exceptional results. Building long-term relationships is at the heart of what we do, and there’s no greater compliment than a returning client.

As we head into 2025, I remain cautiously optimistic. While uncertainties persist –whether around government policies or the broader economy – London and the UK’s enduring appeal will undoubtedly prevail.

What’s particularly intriguing right now is that we’re navigating what I believe is the bottom of the market. There are some excellent buying opportunities for those ready to act. Nervous sellers who’ve been waiting to move on are now willing to negotiate, making December and early 2025 an ideal time to buy. I anticipate that as sentiment improves – perhaps as early as next year – we’ll see confidence return which could harden seller’s positions within the market, so this current window is one to seize.

At The Buying Solution, we are proud to stand beside our clients, offering trusted advice, unrivalled access, and a deep understanding of the market. Whether it’s navigating the complexities of the current climate or securing a dream home, we are here to ensure our clients are always one step ahead.

Will Watson, Head of The Buying Solution

Will Watson is Head of The Buying Solution

If you wish to discuss your property requirements, we’d be delighted to assist you. Contact the team here.

In the Press: The Buying Solution in Bloomberg

Posted on by Jessica Jonzen

Harry Gladwin, The Buying Solution Partner and Head of the Cotswolds Region, speaks to Sarah Rappaport at Bloomberg about the Cotswolds’ appeal for US buyers, and the surge in his American clients in the past year.

Sarah Frances Kelley for The Buying Solution

Read the article on Bloomberg here.

In the Press: The Buying Solution in The Telegraph

Posted on by Jessica Jonzen

With news of Ellen DeGeneres’ rumoured move, Harry Gladwin, The Buying Solution Partner and Head of the Cotswolds Region, speaks to Guy Kelly of The Telegraph about how Trump’s victory has prompted wealthy Democrats to consider relocating to the Cotswolds.


Sarah Frances Kelley for The Buying Solution

Read the article in The Telegraph here.

In the Press: The Buying Solution in The Telegraph

Posted on by Jessica Jonzen

Will Watson, Head of The Buying Solution, talks to Melissa Lawford of The Telegraph about the rise in enquiries from wealthy American Democrats seeking a ‘safety net’ second home in London after Trump’s re-election.

Sarah Frances Kelley for The Buying Solution

Read the article in The Telegraph here

Will a Second Trump Presidency Drive American Buyers to the UK?

Posted on by Jessica Jonzen

As British property experts, we see global events shape our market in unexpected ways. With Donald Trump’s return as the 47th US President, Will Watson, Head of The Buying Solution, considers how this could drive renewed American interest in UK property.

It is, by anyone’s measure, an extraordinary comeback. Donald Trump’s decisive victory over Kamala Harris in the US election will have implications across the globe. As British buying agents, we are closely watching how this shift in American leadership may impact the prime UK property market.

A second Trump presidency could indeed drive increased American interest in UK property, with motivations extending well beyond politics. For many high-net-worth American families, growing divisions within the US and pressing concerns about safety are becoming decisive factors in exploring relocation. The tragic statistics are stark: there have been 58 school shootings in the United States so far in 2024. Each day, 12 children in America lose their lives to gun violence, while another 32 are shot and injured, according to the New England Journal of Medicine.

At least 29 states allow individuals other than police or security officials to carry guns on school grounds, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures. Trump’s strong alignment with the National Rifle Association and his unwavering support for gun rights add to the unease among parents who increasingly see gun violence as an unavoidable risk in American life. This concern for safety has prompted numerous families from the West Coast and New York to consider the UK – not for tax breaks, educational benefits, or the allure of the British climate – but for the peace of mind that stricter gun laws can bring. While crime rates in the UK have increased, they are modest in comparison to those in the US. For families weary of active-shooter drills and the spectre of gun violence in schools and kindergartens, the UK’s lower rates of violent crime and strong gun control offer a compelling appeal.

Beyond safety, the “special relationship” between the UK and the US holds its own appeal. For many Americans, the UK offers an accessible transition – a shared language, an internationally well-regarded education system and a thriving cultural scene. It’s a natural choice for families considering relocation. And with some of the UK’s best schools and universities in and around London, the appeal is even stronger for parents interested in long-term residency for their children’s education.

Financially, there is potential for increased American investment as well. The dollar’s strength against a relatively weaker pound creates an attractive buying opportunity. For Americans, UK property has always held a certain cachet and when combined with favourable exchange rates, the value becomes hard to ignore. London property prices have softened recently and, while this might seem like a negative indicator, for those looking to buy and hold it’s actually an ideal scenario – an opportunity to invest in a market that is likely to appreciate in the long term.

However, it’s not a straightforward choice for every family. Moving across the Atlantic is no small feat, and many of our American clients have business interests that tie them to the US. While we might see an increase in families relocating to the UK, it’s likely that many will opt to keep their businesses stateside, creating what we might call “transatlantic households,” with families based here and professional commitments remaining in the US. Meanwhile, the recent UK budget and its potential impact on non-doms could well be another consideration affecting plans to relocate.

Of course, it’s difficult to predict exactly how a second Trump term would unfold and the direct impact it might have. But from our vantage point, we are already seeing an increase in enquiries and interest from American buyers, and we believe this could very well grow in the coming years. For now, American buyers are actively exploring their options, assessing the UK market and weighing the appeal of London’s property landscape amid its current buyer-friendly conditions.

Ultimately, whether or not we see a surge in American buyers will depend on how events play out in both the US and UK. But for families looking to combine safety, cultural familiarity and long-term investment potential, the UK remains an appealing choice – and with a strong dollar, the opportunity has perhaps never been more attractive.

Will Watson, Head of The Buying Solution

Will Watson is Head of The Buying Solution

If you wish to discuss your property requirements, we’d be delighted to assist you. Contact the team here.