Tag: Buying agent

Our Buying Agents’ Highlights of 2025

Posted on by Jessica Jonzen

As 2025 comes to a close, The Buying Solution team looks back on the standout property deals of the year that we achieved for our clients. Each transaction showcases how unmatched local knowledge, strategic connections and expert negotiation consistently delivered exceptional results in London and the country’s competitive property markets. If you have ever questioned what a buying agent does and how they add value to the process of buying a property in London or the country, read on…

Chelsea townhouses ©Sarah Frances Kelley for The Buying Solution
Sarah Frances Kelley for The Buying Solution
Will Watson, Head of The Buying Solution

Will Watson, Head of The Buying Solution and specialist buying agent in Prime Central London

“This year has been defined by steady progress and a renewed sense of cohesion across The Buying Solution’s team,” says Will Watson, Head of The Buying Solution and specialist buying agent in Prime Central London. “We are now working more seamlessly between London and the country than ever before, supporting clients whose lives and property needs span both.  

Notably, South West London has been a standout area for The Buying Solution. “Activity in the £3m–£10m bracket outpacing even Prime Central London, reflecting a more grounded domestic market and buyers’ growing appetite for space and value,” Will adds. 

The Country team has seen a more considered pace of activity, shaped largely by limited stock, yet the underlying demand has remained remarkably resilient. “We end the year with a strong and engaged client list, many of whom are increasingly optimistic about 2026 as value improves and the prospect of greater choice returns,” says Will.  

“Across both the London and country markets, the appetite for best-in-class, generational homes remains undimmed, and we’ve been fortunate to guide clients towards some truly exceptional properties.”

London

Giles Elliott, London buying agent, Partner, The Buying Solution

Giles Elliott, Partner, specialist buying agent in Prime Central and North West London

This year’s standout deal reminded me why deep local knowledge and relationships matter so much. A Belgian family moving back to London after 12 years in Singapore were put in contact with me. Initially, they weren’t really sure what a buying agent was or the services we provide. I suggested a driving tour of their preferred area, and we turned into a tiny street by Primrose Hill – their favourite road, as it happened. I know it inside out: 13 buildings, only five or six still whole houses, one recently sold, and another recently let.

Within 24 hours, I had lined up viewings on two of the houses. They trusted me to handle the negotiations, and thanks to a personal connection with a vendor I had worked with years ago, we secured one of the rare houses that never reaches the open market. They chose it not just for space, but for layout, light, garden, location, views and architecture. From start to finish – guiding them, recommending every service provider, and securing the best deal – it felt like one of the best jobs I’ve ever done, adding real value to their whole life, not just the purchase. 

Toto Lambert, The Buying Solution Partner, London

Toto Lambert, Partner, specialist buying agent in Prime Central and South West London

Despite the obvious headwinds over the last 12 months, we’ve still been able to acquire some very special homes for our clients. One highlight is the purchase of a beautifully refurbished house in Chelsea for a lovely couple who divide their time between London and the countryside and were looking for a pied-à-terre. 

They initially set out to find an apartment, but after taking the time to listen and understand how they live, it became clear that a house would suit them far better. While they knew the area socially, we were able to add real value by guiding them through the nuances of particular pockets and architectural styles, keeping the search focused on a small number of preferred streets and saving them a great deal of time and energy. 

Within only a couple of months, we agreed terms on a property that had recently fallen through, securing it for over £500,000 less than it achieved in 2023. We introduced a trusted surveyor, worked seamlessly with their interior designer, and brought the whole purchase together smoothly. 

Looking ahead, I’m genuinely excited for 2026, with wonderful clients and some excellent opportunities on the horizon. 

James Burridge The Buying Solution

James Burridge, Partner, specialist buying agent in in Prime Central and South West London

2025 has been busy, particularly in South West London, where the market has been more active. We acquired five “best in class” houses – most of them substantial projects – for our clients. One was a lovely family house in Clapham Old Town which had not sold for over 40 years. In another transaction, we went to sealed bids with nine other parties. We were not the highest party, but the vendor took comfort from the fact that The Buying Solution being instructed gave our clients extra credibility.  

At the other end of the spectrum, we secured a Knightsbridge flat for a client we’ve been working with for over five years. We paid significantly less than it was marketed for having bided our time for not months but years.

It hasn’t been an easy year: the lack of best-in-class stock has been the biggest frustration. But by focussing on keeping clients grounded, not overpaying and being patient, we’ve managed to access opportunities others wouldn’t find. 

Philip Eastwood, The Buying Solution, Partner, London

Philip Eastwood, Partner, specialist buying agent in Prime Central London

One of the more gratifying moments of my year came from an unabashedly old-school approach. A client and I had narrowed our search to a particular street in Kensington, so I sat down with a fountain pen and wrote to every owner.

It felt almost quaint, but it worked: a lady who had lived in her house for 35 years opened the handwritten envelope, rang me directly, and allowed us to buy her home discreetly, at a fair price, without it ever touching the open market. 

The experience proved, yet again, that personal service is something you show rather than say. While I was having coffee with her, an agent happened to be delivering standard printed leaflets, which she binned instantly. By contrast, a simple handwritten note cut through the impersonal noise of emails and WhatsApps and led not only to the purchase, but to her instruction to help her buy her next home as well. It was a small gesture, but it made all the difference. 

Country

Mark Lawson The Buying Solution

Mark Lawson, Partner, specialist buying agent in the Southern Counties and High Value & Rural Estates

I worked with an international family who knew broadly what they wanted in the UK, but lacked the time, local knowledge and contacts to find it. We showed them 17 properties in their preferred area, advising them on schools, commutability, value and the nuances between more and less desirable pockets. 

They narrowed the search to two properties in Berkshire, both entirely off-market and shown only to us. We coordinated every detail, collecting them from the airport and managing the viewings, before advising on value, negotiation strategy and likely outcomes. 

Once they made their choice, we secured the house at a sensible price, supported by clear comparable evidence. From there, we worked intensively to exchange within two weeks ahead of the November Budget – a process that typically takes a month or more, and often several months without a buying agent and a good lawyer. 

Acting as the “conductor of the orchestra,” we secured the very best surveyors, planners and lawyers to ensure a seamless, successful purchase. It was a textbook illustration of the value of our service. 

Harry Gladwin, Partner, specialist buying agent in the Cotswolds

Harry Gladwin, Partner, specialist buying agent in the Cotswolds

One of the most satisfying moments of the past year was completing a privately arranged purchase in one of the Cotswolds’ most sought-after locations – a property that never reached the open market, for the second time.

I had originally acquired the house privately four years ago through a long-standing contact who owns a significant local estate. By maintaining close relationships with former clients, I became aware that they were considering a move and was able to introduce a new buyer of mine before the wider market had any knowledge that the property might become available.

Given that the house requires substantial work, we had to move quickly to assemble the right professional team – architects, planners, ecologists and solicitors – all at pace. Long-standing personal relationships were critical. People answered the phone, reshuffled diaries and prioritised the project because we have worked together for many years. That collective experience allowed us to structure a transaction that worked well for all parties.

It was a full-circle moment and a clear reminder of what deep local knowledge and a trusted network can genuinely deliver – access, discretion and results that no portal or newcomer could hope to replicate.

Georgina Neil Cotswolds buying agent, The Buying Solution

Georgina Neil, specialist buying agent in the Cotswolds

This year, I worked with British clients who had been living in the US for over two decades and were looking for a base back in the UK. With an eight-hour time difference and demanding work schedules, I became their eyes and ears on the ground, offering flexible support and clear, consistent communication throughout. 

I previewed properties, shared detailed video feedback, and shortlisted only the strongest contenders – saving them time and helping them make confident decisions from overseas.  

I guided them through every stage of the UK buying process and represented them firmly in negotiations. Beyond the search itself, I coordinated seamlessly with agents, surveyors, their solicitor, and a full roster of contractors, a house manager and interior designers. My proactive approach meant we kept momentum throughout, and the clients felt fully supported despite being thousands of miles away. We completed successfully in August. 

Jemma Scott, Partner, specialist buying agent in the North Home Counties

Jemma Scott, Partner, specialist buying agent in the North Home Counties

Looking back over the year, what stands out most is the trust clients continue to place in me. I was fortunate to act for two different clients for the second time – something I never take for granted, particularly when we’re dealing with decisions that genuinely shape their lives. 

It’s also been a year of movement: I’ve helped families relocate from five different countries into the Home Counties, guiding them not just on property but on how to build a life here. Revisiting homes I originally acquired – now mid-transformation, with the vision we mapped out together coming to life – has been especially rewarding. 

I’ve increasingly become the “go-to” buying agent for the North Home Counties for a circle of highly respected professionals who value honesty, integrity, pragmatism and, importantly, a sense of fun. We’re privileged to work with clients often at the top of their game; it’s endlessly fascinating to spending time with them and find out about their worlds. This year alone I’ve learned about housing markets in five countries, the secret to the best plane seats, and – slightly alarmingly – how rapidly AI is reshaping almost everything we do. 

Woman in blue suit jacket with long brown hair looking at camera

Katherine Watters, Partner, specialist buying agent in the Southern Home Counties

One of my most memorable moments this year came from a referral in the summer: a client seeking an equestrian property in West Sussex, though her demanding travel schedule between two houses in Europe meant she expected to begin the search in September. She was keen to move quickly, but time was not on her side – or so it seemed. 

Fortunately, I was already aware of an exceptional off-market property that I had acquired for the current owner nearly two decades earlier. With long-standing relationships in place, I was able to arrange immediate access. What followed was a remarkably swift and seamless process: we agreed terms, exchanged and completed before she had even expected to start looking.  

It was a satisfying reminder of the value of deep market knowledge, trusted networks and being ready to act the moment an opportunity appears. 

For news, expert commentary and invaluable property insight, subscribe to The Insider, our quarterly newsletter, here.

The Partnership Helping You Find a Home in the Home Counties

Posted on by Jessica Jonzen

The move from London to the Home Counties is a well-trodden path, and for good reason. With beautiful countryside, vibrant market towns and excellent schools and connectivity, the region offers balance. Working together, our Partners Katherine Watters and Jemma Scott combine deep local insight to help clients find their perfect place.

The Chiltern Hills

Leaving London has long been a rite of passage for many families. The search for more space, cleaner air and stronger community ties draws buyers outwards each year, tracing familiar paths along the commuter lines that fan into Surrey, Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire. Yet, for all the talk of good schools and train times, the success of such a move often hinges less on geography than on guidance.

At The Buying Solution, our Partners Katherine Watters for the Southern Home Counties and Jemma Scott for the North Home Counties have built a quietly powerful reputation for helping clients navigate this most emotionally charged of transitions. Covering the full sweep of the Home Counties between them, their partnership offers something rare in the property world: a single, joined-up service that transcends traditional boundaries.

“We share clients across regions all the time,” Katherine explains. If someone’s not quite sure whether they want to be near Guildford or Marlow, it doesn’t matter – we work together, and our clients get the same level of insight in both areas.”

A Cohesive Partnership

At the heart of Katherine and Jemma’s partnership is communication. Every client brief is discussed together, every update shared. “We’ll both join the first call,” says Jemma. “It’s important that clients see they’re not choosing between two areas or two people. They’re getting both of us: two perspectives, two sets of local knowledge – working towards the same goal.”

That collaboration has proved particularly valuable for the many families who begin with a wide-ranging brief. “We often meet people who know they need to be within an hour of London, but they have no idea where to base themselves,” says Katherine. “That’s when we’ll take them on orientation tours – two or three days of exploring different counties, villages and schools. It’s about helping them understand how each area feels before they commit.”

The approach is as much about education as it is about property. Clients are introduced not only to houses but to lifestyles – bustling market towns and quiet hamlets, the realities of rural broadband, the subtleties of train routes. “We’re not selling anything,” Kat adds. “We’re guiding, helping people imagine the reality of their new life, and then gently making that vision real.”

Chiddingfold, Surrey

The Enduring Appeal of the Home Counties

The reasons for moving to the Home Counties remain remarkably consistent. “For most families, it comes down to schools, commutability, and a sense of belonging,” says Jemma. “People want their children to have space and a great education, but they don’t want to feel cut off.”

Surrey’s gated estates, from Cobham to Oxshott, offer privacy and proximity for those making their first step out of London. The Surrey Hills and villages south of Guildford appeal to buyers seeking a more rural way of life but still within a 45-minute train ride of Waterloo. Northwards, the Chilterns and Thames Valley blend riverside life with market-town sophistication: Henley-on-Thames, Marlow and Beaconsfield remain perennial favourites.

“The Home Counties are incredibly diverse,” says Jemma. “You can have 1930s family houses in one village and 17th-century cottages two miles away. That variety means there’s something for everyone – the key is knowing where to look.”

For many clients, familiarity plays a decisive role. “It’s amazing how often people return to where they grew up,” Katherine observes. “You hear, ‘My parents lived here’ or ‘My best friend has just moved there.’ That sense of connection gives people confidence to move and means that they will often find like-minded people who have made a similar move themselves.”

The London Connection

Although working patterns have evolved, London remains the gravitational centre for many of Katherine and Jemma’s clients. “There’s always a link,” Jemma explains. “Some need to be in the office two or three days a week; others just want to be close enough for dinner, theatre, or the airport. Either way, the Home Counties keep them within reach.”

She recalls a recent family relocating from abroad, with little understanding of the geography. “They wanted good prep schools, countryside, and an hour to central London. That’s a huge brief. But when we talked through what really mattered – commute length, close enough to visit grandparents in the Midlands, lifestyle – we quickly narrowed it to three or four areas. It’s about translating aspiration into practical choice.”

Katherine agrees. “A lot of our clients come to us feeling overwhelmed. They’ve got property alerts from half the Home Counties and no real direction. We bring focus. It’s about saying: if you need to be in Holborn, and you love countryside walks, let’s look at the Guildford line, not the South Downs. We turn the noise into a plan.”

Marlow, Buckinghamshire

A Market Maturing Gracefully

After the feverish years of 2021–22, both Katherine and Jemma describe the Home Counties current market as steadier and, in many ways, healthier. “Buyers are more measured,” says Katherine. “They’re asking questions, doing due diligence, and taking advice. Gone are the days of throwing money at anything with a garden.”

Jemma agrees that realism now defines the tone. “Those pandemic premiums have faded, which is good news for the long term. People who overpaid in haste are discovering the importance of context: flight paths, road noise, village amenities. Sensible pricing and good research are back in vogue.”

This shift plays perfectly to their strengths. “We’ve always taken a forensic approach,” says Katherine. “We’ll check planning histories, school catchments, infrastructure changes – all the details that can make or break a property’s value. That’s where clients see real return on advice.”

The Human Side of the Search

Beyond logistics and market data lies the human dimension. Both Katherine and Jemma have spent years working face-to-face with clients, often over months of searching and decision-making. “It’s a journey,” Jemma reflects. “You see people’s priorities evolve – they start thinking about square footage and end up talking about where their children will ride bikes or where grandparents can visit easily.”

Katherine echoes the sentiment. “We’re often with clients at quite pivotal life stages: moving from London with young children, returning from abroad, or downsizing after decades in one place. It’s not just about finding a house. It’s about helping them visualise the life they want next.”

That sensitivity, combined with their geographical reach, allows The Buying Solution to deliver a service both personal and pragmatic. And with two experts working as one, The Buying Solution makes that search smoother, smarter and far more enjoyable. As Katherine puts it: “In the end, it’s two-for-one – and twice the insight.”

Woman in blue suit jacket with long brown hair looking at camera

Katherine Watters is our specialist Partner for the Southern Home Counties

Jemma Scott

Jemma Scott is our specialist Partner for the North Home Counties

For news, expert commentary and invaluable property insight, subscribe to The Insider, our quarterly newsletter, here.

Where to Find a Village Way of Life in Central London

Posted on by Jessica Jonzen

It may seem like an impossibility to discover a slower pace of life and a strong sense of community in the heart of one of the most vibrant cities in the world. Yet here, our London Partners, James Burridge and Toto Lambert, unearth some of Central London’s most charming village-like pockets

Sarah Frances Kelley for The Buying Solution

Among the world’s leading capital cities, London’s framework is arguably unique. Unlike Paris or New York, London has no underlying grid or clear hierarchy. It didn’t grow from a single centre, but from a scatter of historic settlements. Riverside hamlets, market towns and hilltop parishes were gradually absorbed as the capital expanded with the arrival of the railways and, later, the Underground in the 19th century.

Today, the city remains a mosaic of neighbourhoods, many still echoing their village roots. These ‘villages’ offer community, green space and a slower, more considered pace of life – and have become some of the city’s most sought-after residential addresses. In North West London, you’ll find the closest thing to a village in London in historic Hampstead, leafy Highgate and charming Belsize Village. While in South West London, Richmond Park, Wimbledon Common and Barnes Common Nature Reserve feel almost rural in parts and the surrounding neighbourhoods absorb this sense of calm from these large open spaces.

The expectation of what constitutes a village way of life in Central London may differ yet, just a few streets back from the bustle, there remain neighbourhoods with a unique charm. “More and more, people want to feel connected to a local community in what can feel like a big and intense city. They might be looking for a village green or a park, a handful of independent, thoughtfully-sourced shops, a good local pub – a quiet pocket within a busy city,” says our Partner Toto Lambert.

Sarah Frances Kelley for The Buying Solution

Chelsea Green

Until the Georgian era, areas like Chelsea and Marylebone were considered on the edge of town. Today, there remains a strong sense of local community and independent character here.

Chelsea Green, tucked behind the King’s Road, feels a world away from the nearby flagship stores and traffic. The Chelsea Fishmonger is just yards from the local cobbler who has worked on the Green for decades, a few doors down from Jago’s family butcher – it’s a charming pocket of old Chelsea. Streets like Markham Street or Bywater Street showcase classic pastel-coloured Georgian homes, with such examples trading between £3m-£5m.

“There’s a real quaintness to Chelsea Green, while still being in central London – it’s part of the city but not consumed by it,” says Toto. “It’s an area that’s very popular with international buyers as well as downsizers because everything is within walking distance.”

“I recently worked with a family whose main residence was outside of London, but they wanted a London base,” Toto adds. “We secured a best-in-class flat on one floor, overlooking one of London’s most sought-after communal garden squares. The flat was in great condition (hard to find in the current market) and within easy walk of Sloane Square for the Tube, and Chelsea Green for the community, village feel and the independent shops.”

Sarah Frances Kelley for The Buying Solution

Notting Hill

Central London’s most famous ‘village’, Notting Hill still delivers a strong sense of community. Beyond Portobello Road’s weekend crowds, areas like Westbourne Grove and Clarendon Road have a neighbourhood feel, supported by myriad independent businesses and elegant stucco-fronted houses that regularly fetch over £10 million.

Notting Hill also has easy access to the M4 for Berkshire, the Cotswolds and Bath, as well as Heathrow, making it well-placed for international buyers and those with primary residences outside of London.

“Some parts of Central London can feel more transient, but Notting Hill is consistently popular and for good reason. It’s vibrant and individual, a melting pot of cultures,” says our Partner James Burridge. “We recently acquired a lovely house off Westbourne Grove for a Spanish client who had lived in the area for many years. She was focused on staying within walking distance of all that Notting Hill has to offer”.

“Westbourne Grove and Portobello Road have touch points of the mainstream, of course, but they also feel more humble and friendly, with a village-like connection. You will find that a lot of people who live in or around Elgin Crescent during the week decamp to their country residence near Soho Farmhouse in the Cotswolds at weekends.”

Indeed, the organic produce that locals know and love from Daylesford Farm near Kingham in the Cotswolds at weekends can also be picked up at their local Daylesford outpost on Westbourne Grove during the week.

2025 has seen a host of new restaurant openings in Notting Hill, firmly cementing its status as a culinary destination. Here, you can enjoy food from all over the world; from Juno’s Japanese/Mexican fusion food in its intimate six-seater restaurant, to Swedish bakery Fabrique and neighbourhood pub The Pelican. What unites them is their sense of community.

Getty Images

Marylebone

Marylebone remains a hugely popular neighbourhood of Central London and people who choose to live here are led by the lifestyle that it offers, rather than the size of their space or proximity to good schools – although there are several close by. For that reason, it tends to attract a marginally older demographic.

“Marylebone offers a slightly different proposition. It feels more sophisticated than Notting Hill and Chelsea Green, yet you will find a strong sense of community here, as well as tree-lined streets and historic architecture,” says James.

Just five minutes from Oxford Street, Marylebone High Street offers a vibrant selection of international luxury brands. Yet, just off it, you will still find quieter cobbled lanes, traditional pubs and St Marylebone Parish Church and gardens.

With its butcher, cheesemonger and chocolate shop, Moxon Street has become a leading foodie destination. Lita Mediterranean restaurant on Paddington Street is a favourite of renowned chef Raymond Blanc, who moved to Marylebone from Oxford. While The Hart pub on Chiltern Street – the most recent opening from the Public House group – offers a seasonal British menu with ingredients picked from its kitchen garden in Oxfordshire.

If you’re craving green space, the 410-acre Regent’s Park – a former royal hunting ground, later leased to tenant farmers – is just a 15-minute walk away.

Marylebone’s residents are proud of its status as a ‘village’ and there is a busy calendar of community events here, including Christmas carol performances and concerts, an annual Easter egg hunt and a Summer Festival, complete with a tombola and dog show.

“We have bought a number of very good flats in prime Marylebone over the last 18 months, from period mansion block apartments – 3,000 sq ft lateral spaces overlooking Regent’s Park, through to some of the finest flats in recently built blocks, including Chiltern Place and The Chilterns,” says James.

James Burridge The Buying Solution

James Burridge is our specialist Partner in Central and South-West London.

Toto Lambert, The Buying Solution Partner, London

Toto Lambert is our specialist Partner in Central and South-West London.

For news, expert commentary and invaluable property insight, subscribe to The Insider, our quarterly newsletter, here.

The Return of Practicality to Cotswolds Buyers

Posted on by Jessica Jonzen

For many, the Cotswolds are the ultimate expression of English country living – its honeyed-stone villages, rolling hills and reputation for well-heeled conviviality continuing to lure those seeking an escape from city life. But with the dynamics of the market shifting, so too is the geography of its most desirable postcodes, as our Partner Harry Gladwin and Cotswolds Buying Agent Georgina Neil attest.

Pretty Cotswold stone cottage, Warwickshire, England.
South Warwickshire’s villages are often built from Cotswold stone

During the pandemic and the years that followed, many buyers convinced that working from home was here to stay were drawn to the Cotswolds by lifestyle and cachet above all else. They gravitated towards the so-called “Golden Triangle” – the prime area between Chipping Norton, Stow-on-the-Wold and Burford in Oxfordshire and Gloucestershire. But a new mood is emerging. With the return to the office reshaping working patterns, buyers are now weighing practicality more carefully. Proximity to London, access to good schools and easy connections via the M40 or mainline rail are once again carrying as much weight as lifestyle aspirations.

“Practicality is definitely beginning to creep back into people’s requirements,” says Harry Gladwin, our Partner and Head of the Cotswolds Region. “The northern part of the Cotswolds, taking in the South Warwickshire villages, is increasingly popular because it offers better value and is arguably a little bit more authentic – and it’s still pretty accessible thanks to its proximity to the M40.” The south-eastern Cotswolds, he adds, “were traditionally popular with commuters because of their accessibility to Oxford and London, and also to schools such as the Dragon and Summer Fields. That shifted in the post-Covid years to take in areas such as Burford and Stow-on-the-Wold which would have been considered too far out, but it’s changing now.”

Beyond the Golden Triangle

This “creep” as Harry describes it doesn’t displace the Golden Triangle’s enduring appeal – it is home to Soho Farmhouse, Daylesford and Estelle Manor, after all. Rather, it represents an evolution: a broadening of what buyers now consider the “desirable” Cotswolds as they consider the importance of connectivity, community, schooling and long-term value.

“Everybody was slightly wowed by the Golden Triangle for a while, wanting to be near Daylesford and Soho Farmhouse, but now we’re seeing people open to a wider range of locations,” says Georgina Neil, our Cotswolds Buying Agent. “The corridor up from Oxford through Kidlington and towards Bicester, Deddington and Banbury has become very popular because the train service from Oxford is good, with fast trains every 30 minutes.”   

Villages to the north, such as Whichford, Ascott and Sutton-under-Brailes in South Warwickshire, have emerged as strong contenders for those seeking space and connectivity. “The countryside up there is really beautiful – open and unspoilt” says Harry. “It feels authentic in the same way that the countryside west of Stow-on-the-Wold does, but you’re that bit closer to Banbury and the mainline train to London.”

“You can still get to all the places you’d want such as Daylesford, Soho Farmhouse within 20 minutes or so,” Harry adds. “But you can also step back from the busier spots if you want to. It gives you the best of both worlds.”

Meanwhile, the continued development of amenities around Chipping Norton and north Oxfordshire – including the planned opening of The Ned’s country hotel by the end of the decade – is helping to knit these areas together into a wider lifestyle geography. “As soon as you’ve got enough people who want to be in that neck of the woods,” Harry says, “the amenities follow.”

Stowe
Stowe House, Buckinghamshire

The Oxfordshire–Warwickshire Edge

This belt of countryside, skirting the northern edge of the Cotswolds into South Warwickshire, is developing a distinct identity. Its draw lies in its balance of authenticity and convenience: open farmland and unspoiled scenery combined with practical access to London, Oxford and Birmingham.

“There are plenty of strong communities up there, with a more genuine mix of people,” Harry says. “You still get all the Cotswold charm – traditional pubs and pretty cottages – but without the self-consciousness. It feels more grounded, a reminder of what the region was once all about.”

Georgina sees the same sense of equilibrium extending eastwards. “If you live between Chipping Norton, Banbury and Bicester, you’ve got excellent schools to choose from – Winchester House in Brackley, Northamptonshire; Bloxham School near Banbury, even Beachborough and Stowe in Buckinghamshire,” she says. “Bloxham’s flexi-boarding option has widened its appeal hugely.”

This combination of practicality and quality of life is underpinning a gentle market shift rather than a sudden migration. “People still love the core Cotswolds,” Georgina adds. “But we’re seeing a broader definition of what living here means. It’s not just about being close to a particular club or postcode – it’s about how easily you can get to work, or to school and still enjoy beautiful countryside.”

Confidence Returning

Parts of north Oxfordshire and South Warwickshire that once seemed peripheral are now benefiting from renewed confidence. “This area became quite unpopular because of HS2,” Georgina recalls. “But now that the work has begun and the uncertainty has gone, people have more confidence to buy there again.”

Market towns such as Deddington, six miles south of Banbury, are enjoying a quiet revival. “You’re seeing new cafés, well-kept pubs, and a sense of local community returning,” she says. “It’s not trying to be somewhere else – it’s just a pleasant, liveable place, where you can get a good meal in your local pub without everything being very high-end.”

Sarah Frances Kelley for The Buying Solution

A Shifting Market

What emerges from these shifts is a more nuanced picture of the Cotswolds market. The Golden Triangle remains a magnet for buyers seeking prestige and proximity to established hubs, while the northern and eastern edges offer a quieter, more practical alternative for those prioritising connectivity and value.

“People still want the beauty the Cotswolds is famous for,” Georgina says. “They’re just being a bit more thoughtful about what works day to day. If you’ve got teenagers, for example, it helps to have a bus route into Oxford or a train station nearby. That practicality is what’s driving many of the decisions now.”

Harry agrees. “If you want a weekend cottage, the hotspots will always appeal,” he says. “But if you’re looking for a bigger house with land then you are far more likely to find it up towards South Warwickshire.”

A Broader Definition of the Cotswolds Dream

For all the shifts in emphasis, the appeal of the Cotswolds endures, just in a more diverse form. The same rolling hills and mellow stone that drew Londoners seeking space and respite from city life now attract a wider range of buyers who want that while still maintaining connectivity.

“People are rediscovering parts of the region that feel authentic but also work practically,” Georgina says. “It’s about having space, countryside and culture, but also schools, trains and a bit of real everyday life.”

However, caution is always advised, which is where The Buying Solution’s expert guidance comes to the fore. “Because you’re moving around the edge of the Cotswolds National Landscape and the protections that come with it, you need to be alert to potential infrastructure changes and development creep,” says Harry. “It’s easy to buy in the wrong place and find yourself in a built-up area within a few years. The countryside here is beautiful and accessible, but that makes expert guidance even more valuable – you need to know exactly where to put your pin in the map.”

Harry Gladwin, The Buying Solution

Harry Gladwin is our Partner and Head of the Cotswolds Region

Georgina Neil Cotswolds buying agent, The Buying Solution

Georgina Neil is our Cotswolds Buying Agent

For news, expert commentary and invaluable property insight, subscribe to The Insider, our quarterly newsletter, here.

How to Sell Your House in a Buyer’s Market

Posted on by Jessica Jonzen

As housing stock reaches its highest level in a decade, Good Housekeeping’s Laura Whateley reveals eight essential tips to help sellers attract serious offers – with expert advice from our Partner, Mark Lawson.

Sarah Frances Kelley double fronted Georgian house Cotswolds
Sarah Frances Kelley for The Buying Solution

Not long ago, sellers could list their homes with minimal preparation and still expect multiple offers within days. But in today’s buyer’s market, “sellers need to put in a little more effort to give their listing the edge,” writes Good Housekeeping’s Laura Whateley.

Our Partner for the Southern Counties and High Value Residential & Rural Estates, Mark Lawson MRICS, shared his expert advice on the quick fixes which can help secure an offer in a more competitive market.

Read the article here.



Could You Be Making Angela Rayner’s Stamp Duty Oversight?

Posted on by Jessica Jonzen

Former housing secretary Angela Rayner’s much-discussed property dealings highlight a problem that our Partner Harry Gladwin sees often, particularly in high-value deals. In a recent column for The Times, Harry explains how assuming that one advisor can cover all bases can have far-reaching consequences.

London red brick apartment building.
Sarah Frances Kelley for The Buying Solution

In a recent column for The Times, our Partner and Head of the Cotswolds Region Harry Gladwin writes that complex property transactions require robust, expert advice and a team of specialists; including tax advisers, planning lawyers, accountants and surveyors. “In property, mistakes are expensive and, as Angela Rayner discovered, getting it wrong can cost you far more than money,” he writes.

Read the article here.

How Postcode Snobbery Presents Great Buying Opportunities

Posted on by Jessica Jonzen

While some buyers are happy to pay a premium for a prestigious postcode, there is often far better value to be had nearby, our Cotswolds Partner Harry Gladwin tells Hugh Graham at The Times.

Sarah Frances Kelley for The Buying Solution

The wrong combination of letters and numbers in a Cotswold property’s address can completely deter some buyers, while others are willing to pay a six-figure premium simply for the GL postcode. Yet in the nearby villages of Warwickshire you can find the same charming honeyed-stone cottages and rolling views for significantly less, says Harry Gladwin in The Times.

Read the article here.

How Property Near British Events Can Yield Real Income

Posted on by Jessica Jonzen

For a growing number of UK property owners, proximity to Britain’s cultural and sporting calendar is proving more than incidental – it’s quietly generating meaningful seasonal income. From the polo season in Sussex to music festivals in Somerset, the property market near major regional events holds not just lifestyle value but the potential for short bursts of high-yield rental opportunities, as our Partners explain.

Across the country, homeowners are increasingly leveraging a pattern of short-term lets tied to key events. These aren’t year-round investment properties, but well-located second homes and country houses with ancillary accommodation whose seasonal demand is driving interest from tenants prepared to pay a premium – for a month, a week, or even a weekend.

Polo, Property and High-Value Tenancies

Nowhere is this clearer than around Cowdray Park in Midhurst, West Sussex, one of the UK’s most prestigious polo venues. “People rent out their houses, farm buildings and land to incoming polo teams,” says Mark Lawson, our High Value Residential and Rural Estates Partner. “If you’ve got a farm with appropriate buildings and a house, you can make a huge amount of money over a three-month period.”

It’s a pattern echoed throughout the polo season, which draws teams, patrons, support staff and international guests from March to August. Katherine Watters, our Southern Home Counties Partner, says: “Rentals around Midhurst and Petworth during polo season are huge. Rents increase by around 70%, and demand spans everything from grooms’ accommodation to larger family houses for the patrons themselves.”

She also notes the growing market for post-season use of land. “There’s been a real uptick in people renting land to wintering polo ponies. They don’t need access to huge grazing, but they do need to be locally based for daily checks. Some owners take that on themselves, and it becomes a six-month income stream.”

Shooting Season Demand: Exmoor to Northumberland

Polo is just one part of the seasonal economy. The driven shooting calendar is creating a parallel income opportunity – especially for larger houses in regions with world-class moors and woodland. “People certainly rent out their big country houses to travelling American shooting parties,” says Mark. “They want their own house, complete privacy, and they bring their own staff and cooks. They’ll pay significant amounts to stay near top-tier shoots.”

Prime locations include Exmoor, Wiltshire and Northumberland – areas with multiple access points to renowned estates. Properties with heritage features, self-contained guest accommodation and local shoot connections are particularly in demand. “They come over for a week or two,” Lawson explains, “base themselves in one place, and travel around. If you’re positioned well, the income can be substantial.”

While many of these agreements are informal and discreet, high-end tenancies often involve robust private contracts. “At that level, everything needs to be precise,” adds Harry Gladwin, our Cotswolds Partner. “These owners expect their property to look untouched when they return.”

Short-Term Demand with Long-Term Appeal

From Henley-on-Thames to Glastonbury, homeowners are increasingly capitalising on the surge in demand tied to Britain’s summer event calendar.

“People rent out their homes for those five days and leave the area,” says Lawson, referencing Glastonbury Festival. “It’s financially worthwhile and a good time to avoid traffic and crowds.” In one instance, a client in the music industry purchased a second home nearby purely to host guests and entertain during the festival week.

For homeowners in and around Henley, demand builds across multiple regattas, culminating in the six-day Royal Regatta. “You find annexes fitted with rows of single beds for rowers,” says Jemma Scott, our North Home Counties Partner. “It’s highly organised. Some owners are retired couples, others are entrepreneurial young families who leave for the week. It can easily cover the cost of a summer holiday.”

Ascot sees similar demand across the summer racing and polo season, where houses with land or adaptable outbuildings are sought after for temporary use.

Jemma points out that for most in her region, the motivation isn’t investment in the traditional sense. “For many owners, it’s pin money – it pays for a holiday – but it speaks to the enduring appeal of these English towns and villages in and around Henley, Marlow, Ascot and Windsor. People want to participate, to feel part of it. It’s invigorating, almost a legacy. The seasonal rental value just adds another layer of appeal.”

The Cotswolds: From Event-Driven to Year-Round Yield

Unlike the more event-specific rental windows in Henley or Cowdray, the Cotswolds has evolved into a year-round short-let market. “People absolutely do it for the money,” says Harry Gladwin. “There’s huge demand – some are paying tens of thousands of pounds a day.”

The draw is no longer just events like the Big Feastival near Kingham or Wilderness near Charlbury, but a broader lifestyle trend. “People want to visit Soho Farmhouse, Estelle Manor or Daylesford and want proximity but may want their own space, rather than staying there. Some owners now routinely rent out their main homes for summer and relocate locally for a few weeks. The income covers their own holiday and often more.”

Gladwin notes that these lets span from modest Airbnb stays to private, high-value arrangements. “There’s a broad range – from a few hundred pounds a night through to five figures. The more exclusive houses are rarely advertised. They’re let privately through networks with staff already in place and very high standards, but everyone is doing it at every level. And why wouldn’t you?”

Wimbledon and London Event Lettings

In south-west London, the Wimbledon Championship’s expanded tennis calendar has long had a tangible impact. “It’s now a month-long window – with the HSBC Championship at The Queen’s Club, early arrivals and the tournament itself,” says James Burridge, our London Partner. “Players and sponsors – brands like Rolex, IMG, Evian – are booking properties well in advance.”

While he notes that many homeowners with prestigious homes in Wimbledon Village are reluctant to let due to concerns over property wear, the premium on offer can be persuasive. “It’s not a core investment strategy,” James adds, “but it does provide optional income, particularly when paired with other events like the Open Golf or London’s summer arts season.”

The same dynamic applies in Chelsea, where events like the Chelsea Flower Show drive short-term Airbnb interest. “It’s a multi-purpose demand in London during the summer months, with culture, sport and business travel all overlapping,” says James.

Flexible Ownership with a Return

Across all regions, one consistent theme emerges: owners are increasingly looking for versatility – properties that provide enjoyment and, when required, deliver income.

“You wouldn’t buy a house in Wimbledon just for the Championships,” says Katherine. “But if you’re buying anyway, having the option to let for a month makes a lot of sense.”

Jemma sees it as part of a broader recalibration. “Buyers today want properties that can work harder. A good location, strong local schools, National Landscape status – but also event access and letting potential. It’s no longer enough just to have a good train into London.”

Lawson agrees: “The events put these places on the map, but the income opportunity is now part of the conversation. These aren’t traditional buy-to-lets – they’re flexible assets. And people are increasingly running the numbers.”

For news, expert commentary and invaluable property insight, subscribe to The Insider, our quarterly newsletter, here.

The Rise of the Bougie High Street

Posted on by Jessica Jonzen

From artisan bakeries and chichi cafés to independent boutiques and premium gyms, our high streets are becoming ever more curated according to a recent article in the Financial Times, featuring expert comment from our Partner Harry Gladwin.

Sarah Frances Kelley for The Buying Solution

Talking to journalist Cathy Hawker, our Head of the Cotswolds region, Harry, told her that outside of London, the practical is blending with the premium. He cites Groves Yard in Milton-under-Wychwood in the Cotswolds as a place where shoopers can stock up on lightbulbs, order a set of curtains, enjoy lunch, buy a oaf of freshly-baked bread, have a manicure and even visit the dentist.

Read the article here.

The Timeless Appeal of the Surrey Hills Villages

Posted on by Jessica Jonzen

With their blend of community, countryside and convenience, the villages peppering the Surrey Hills are perennially popular with families and downsizers alike, writes our Southern Home Counties Partner Katherine Watters, a lifelong resident

As a property buying agent born and bred in the Surrey Hills, I’ve had the privilege of guiding countless families, couples and individuals through their search for the perfect home in this unique corner of England.

Whether Shamley Green, Wonersh, Hascombe, Holmbury St Mary, Shere or Abinger, the enduring appeal of these villages remains as strong today as it was when I first began my career, if not stronger. In an age when lifestyles are increasingly shaped by hybrid working, wellness and a yearning for community, these villages offer the ideal balance.

A Place for All Stages of Life

One of the most striking features of the Surrey Hills property market is how it supports homeowners through all stages of life. Families often start on the edge – perhaps in Wonersh Park or the immediate Guildford villages – then scale further into the hills as their needs and resources grow. Later, the pattern reverses: downsizers tend to gravitate back towards the larger villages, seeking amenities and social connections. With excellent schools, sporting clubs, and annual events such as village fetes and dog shows, these communities appeal to every generation.

Shamley Green: The Quintessential Surrey Village

If one village epitomises what buyers seek in the Surrey Hills, it is surely Shamley Green. Time and again, clients relocating from southwest London (who 10 years ago made up 70 per cent of my clients, while today the majority are already based here) are immediately charmed by it. The village green, with its duck pond, period homes and cricket pitch overlooked by the Red Lion Inn, the thriving local pub, conjures a quintessentially English scene. Even the cherry tree beside the local bus stop is a draw, reliably flooding social media with its blossom each spring.

Yet Shamley Green’s appeal lies in its balance; it is bucolic with a lot going on. Here, you are on the edge of true countryside and feel part of village life, yet close enough to Guildford’s mainline station to reach London in under an hour if you time it right. There is a very active village hall, and the ever popular café Forge on the Green has become a real hub for locals. And from the village itself, bridleways and footpaths rise into the Surrey Hills, offering superb walking, cycling and riding opportunities. Add in good schools – Longacre School, Cranleigh, and St Catherine’s School in neighbouring Bramley – and it’s no wonder Shamley Green sits high on most Surrey buyers’ lists.

Wonersh and the Stepping Stones of Suburban-Rural Life

Adjacent to Shamley Green is Wonersh, another pretty gem that provides a slightly different flavour. More of a suburb of Guildford, Wonersh is often seen as a stepping stone for those moving out of London. Wonersh Park is particularly popular with families, offering substantial detached houses with generous gardens, often half an acre or more within a gated estate where children can safely roam and visit friends. For many, this is the first move before venturing further into the Surrey Hills proper.

What Wonersh shares with Shamley Green is a community spirit, bolstered by excellent local schools and sporting clubs such as Blackheath Cricket Club – a cherished Friday night fixture for families. The village hall hosts events, the local pub The Grantley Arms has upped its game to become a destination in its own right, and footpaths from the village lead you directly into the hills.

The Higher Surrey Hills: For Those Who Truly Embrace the Countryside

Beyond the commuter-friendly villages lie the elevated hamlets of Holmbury Saint Mary, Peaslake, Shere and Abinger. These spots are beloved by those who want to feel fully nestled in the hills, and the access to the Hurtwood – the largest area of common land in Surrey – and Leith Hill is unrivalled. This is prime territory for walkers, cyclists and riders – and increasingly, for those who work from home and commute to London just once or twice a week.

Shere, in particular, has gained a certain fame – its charming high street and duck pond featured in the 2006 romantic comedy film The Holiday, drawing visitors and would-be homeowners alike. Yet, for all their prettiness, these villages retain vibrant, close-knit communities, supported by good local schools and thriving pubs that have transformed into high-quality gastropubs and destination dining spots.

Resilience Against Overdevelopment

In an age where housing development looms large across the South East, the Surrey Hills enjoys a level of protection that buyers find reassuring. One of the first areas in the UK to be designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in 1958, it is 163 square miles now known as the Surrey Hills National Landscape, and development is constrained. While small-scale building may occur, large housing estates are rare, preserving the character of these cherished villages. The allure of this protection is not lost on buyers: in a climate of uncertainty, people are drawn to places where the landscape – and by extension, their investment – is safeguarded.

The Enduring Magnetism of Community and Countryside

Much has changed since the pandemic reshaped how we live and work. Yet the fundamental draw of the Surrey Hills villages remains: beautiful surroundings, access to nature, a sub-one-hour commute, and a strong sense of community. Increasingly, clients tell me they value feeling part of something – whether that’s a school gate network, a cricket club, or simply a friendly local WhatsApp group. The Surrey Hills offers the outdoorsy, active lifestyle that many dream of – without cutting ties to London.

As someone who grew up here and returned like a homing pigeon, that is its enduring magic. Once you make your home here, you really won’t want to leave.

Woman in blue suit jacket with long brown hair looking at camera

Katherine Watters is The Buying Solution’s Partner in the Southern Home Counties

For news, expert commentary and invaluable property insight, subscribe to The Insider, our quarterly newsletter, here.