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.
Read the article here.
As 2024 draws to a close, Will Watson, Head of The Buying Solution, reflects on a year of change, growth and opportunity.
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 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.
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.
Read the article on Bloomberg here.
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.
Read the article in The Telegraph here.
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.
Read the article in The Telegraph here
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 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.
With the dust settling after Chancellor Rachel Reeves’ delivery of the first Labour budget in 14 years, Will Watson, Head of The Buying Solution, assesses how prevailing uncertainty could create exceptional opportunities.
As buying agents operating in the prime property market, the recent UK budget has left many in our industry with mixed feelings. In the immediate aftermath, there was a collective sigh of relief – things could have been worse. But as we’ve had more time to comb through the details, it feels as though there is “small print within the small print.” This lingering uncertainty has put the market in a cautious holding pattern, and while this isn’t ideal, it has created unique buying opportunities for those who can see beyond the headlines.
The non-domicile (non-dom) status proposals, in particular, are keeping high-net-worth foreign individuals on edge. While the government hasn’t taken direct action yet, the signal is clear: more changes are likely coming. London remains a magnet for ultra-wealthy buyers from around the world, and I believe this budget cycle could amplify that. If overseas buyers feel the UK’s tax landscape could stabilise in their favour – through a simplified flat fee for non-doms of £200,000-£300,000, akin to Italy’s approach – we could see renewed international interest. Until then, however, many buyers are maintaining a wait-and-see approach, postponing significant moves until they feel the market is on more predictable ground.
Inheritance tax is another point of friction. With unused pensions now being moved into that scope and heirs being taxed 20% for anything over £1million, the potential tax bill on assets will be so steep – potentially nearly 70% once inheritance and income tax are factored in – that many are reconsidering how to structure their investments. Property has long been a stable asset to pass down to the next generation, and London real estate remains uniquely appealing – a tangible, culturally rich asset that no financial portfolio can replicate.
The high end of the market is ripe with good properties, but they aren’t all immaculate, turnkey homes. In fact, much of the super-prime stock requires significant work, which puts off many buyers seeking to move quickly. Renovation costs have soared by 30-40% in recent years, and planning permission is also more complex than it used to be. However, clients who are willing to take on these projects could see strong returns as the market recovers. Ironically, many buyers now want a “finished” home, but the reality is that most people end up making changes even when they buy something new. Taking on a project can mean a property truly designed to your taste, and in a quiet market you might secure it at a favourable price.
So, what does this all mean for buyers right now? In short, opportunity. The uncertainty around inheritance tax and non-dom status has slowed the market, giving buyers who are open-minded and flexible a distinct advantage. London remains a global city, highly desirable and underpinned by wealth and cultural appeal. And while prices are softer now, there’s no sense of panic. Those who own these properties often have the financial resilience to wait things out rather than sell at a discount. So, while the market may be stagnant for now, it is poised for a resurgence if economic or political conditions – both in the UK and overseas – shift favourably. London is very reactive, the market could turn around quickly, and those who bought in the current lull will look very prescient.
For now, the best advice for buyers is to stay flexible, think long-term and be ready to seize opportunity. London is, and will likely remain, one of the most desirable property markets globally. While it’s easy to get caught up in tax worries and policy shifts, prime property here isn’t just about financials – it’s about lifestyle, legacy and the enduring appeal of London itself. For those prepared to take a long view, this could be an exceptional time to buy into a city with a remarkable track record of resilience and growth.
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
PrimeResi reports on The Buying Solution’s boost to both our London and Country teams with two senior hires, our new partners Toto Lambert in London and Katherine Watters in the Southern Home Counties.
Read the article on PrimeResi here.
Harry Gladwin, The Buying Solution Partner and Head of the Cotswolds Region, speaks to Anna White of The Daily Telegraph for her cover story about Britain’s wealth hotspots, and the importance of the off-market deal.
Read the article in The Daily Telegraph here
Success in today’s fast-paced and complex prime property market depends on connections, and no one is better connected than a good buying agent. Will Watson, Head of The Buying Solution, explains what a buying agent is and why they are essential to helping you secure your ideal property.
Have you ever wondered why, when making one of the biggest financial commitments of your life – buying a home – you do not automatically have someone representing your best interests? Sellers do. Their estate agent advises them every step of the way, working to secure the best possible price and buyer for their property. Yet, buyers are often left to navigate the process alone, without a dedicated expert on their side.
Which is why buying agents have gained in both number and credence in recent years. A buying agent works exclusively for the buyer, leveraging their extensive network to connect them with the perfect property. Acting in their client’s best interests, they will provide expert guidance throughout the entire process, ensuring a smooth and successful purchase.
Time is Money
One of the main reasons buyers turn to a buying agent is time – or the lack of it. The property buying process is complex and time-consuming, and many buyers, especially those balancing demanding schedules, simply don’t have the capacity to keep up. In both London and the Country, staying on top of countless agents while remaining aware of discreet off-market listings is nearly impossible. Many of these exclusive opportunities are only offered to those who maintain constant communication with trusted local and national agents, which is where a buying agent can make all the difference.
A buying agent gives you a distinct advantage. As professionals, we maintain daily contact with selling agents and are often the first to hear about properties before they’re publicly listed. At The Buying Solution, 90% of our initial viewings come from these ‘off-market’ properties. Put simply, without a buying agent, opportunities will be missed.
Stay Ahead of the Competition
In today’s competitive market, most buyers at the top end of the market are using buying agents. The reality is, if you don’t have one, you are automatically at a disadvantage. Selling agents also prefer working with buying agents because they know we represent serious, qualified buyers who are likely to follow through on a purchase.
Once you have found a property you wish to buy, a good buying agent can give you a competitive edge in securing it, helping you navigate tricky negotiations and ensuring that you’re seen as a priority buyer. Without an agent, you risk being pushed to the back of the queue, simply because you aren’t seen as a “ready” buyer.
Navigating a Complex Market
The property market has evolved drastically in recent years. The amount of information available online, while helpful, has also made the market more complicated. Today’s buyers need to be armed with detailed knowledge not only about the property but also about the surrounding area. A decade ago, the level of research a buyer needed to conduct was relatively basic, relying heavily on local knowledge and in-person enquiries.
However, the rise of online resources has shifted this dynamic. Now, extensive research is required to understand everything from planning applications in the surrounding area to infrastructure changes, environmental risks, and local development projects. Buying agents conduct this research thoroughly, providing clients with comprehensive purchase reports that leave no stone unturned, ensuring you are fully informed before making any decisions.
Market Insight and Pricing Expertise
Another critical reason to work with a buying agent is pricing. In markets where stock is scarce and many properties are overpriced, having a dedicated trusted advisor ensures you pay a fair price. Buying agents have access to exclusive market data, and know how much similar properties have recently sold for. We understand the nuances of local markets and can advise when a property is over or underpriced, giving you the knowledge you need to make a smart investment. Without this insight, it is easy to overpay – especially in a market with inflated listings.
The Importance of a Team
The size and experience of a buying agent’s team can also be invaluable. At The Buying Solution, we have the benefit of a large team covering both London and the Country, enabling us to share insights and opportunities across our regions. This kind of information sharing means our clients have access to a far wider pool of potential properties and off-market deals. For example, a buying agent working on a deal in London might hear of an estate coming to market in the Country, providing an early lead before the property is even listed.
For 20 years, The Buying Solution has established a trusted reputation, drawing on decades of collective experience from our expert team. This has enabled us to develop an extensive network of invaluable contacts. We provide our clients with exclusive access to our “Little Black Book” of trusted professionals – local planning consultants, rural experts, architects, interior designers, and more. From the smallest architectural details to the broader lifestyle considerations, we ensure that every element of your purchase is managed under one umbrella.
Buying Is Exciting, Selling Is Emotional
Unlike selling a property, which often involves emotions tied to leaving a home, buying represents the start of an exciting journey. Working with a buying agent makes that journey smoother, more efficient, and ultimately more rewarding. They save you time, keep you competitive, ensure you don’t overpay, and provide invaluable insights into both the property and the market.
In an increasingly competitive and complex market, especially at the higher end, appointing a buying agent is a smart, strategic move. Whether you are purchasing a country house, a rural estate or a London townhouse, a buying agent will make sure the process is as seamless and successful as possible. As one of our clients wrote after the successful purchase of their home: “We wouldn’t have got the house without the seamless service from The Buying Solution and would highly recommend them.”
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.
