Tag: Country

The True Value of Our Exceptional Network

Posted on by Rosalind Sack

Whether buying a listed smallholding in the Cotswolds or a Georgian townhouse in Chelsea, our clients need more than simply the keys. Building an exceptional team of professionals for our clients to support every element of the buying process is all part of our service. And it doesn’t stop on completion…

Sarah Frances Kelley for The Buying Solution

At The Buying Solution, we have built a reputation for sourcing and securing some of the country’s finest properties across London and the English countryside. But while our clients come to us for access and discretion, they stay with us for something less widely known – our network of highly sought-after specialists.

This isn’t just a list of names and numbers. Every agent has a filtered network of some of the most in-demand professionals across property, lifestyle and relocation which we can call in on behalf of our clients. Each connection is earned thanks to years of experience and mutual respect. Many of our advisors have not only operated professionally in their regions for decades, but live there too. Deeply embedded in the local communities, they can open doors for clients that would otherwise be innaccesible.

We’ve brought in leading viticulturists to help advise a client on the perfect aspect for growing grapes on their land, recommended sound engineers to advise on mitigating the impact of a local road and introduced specialist developers to clients wanting to build a state-of-the-art recording studio at their home. We’ve known exactly who to call to successfully move a footpath running across the front of a property – a notoriously difficult task – or which specialist to contact when one of Europe’s most important bat colonies is discovered on a property.

For our clients – who may be relocating from overseas, buying a pied-à-terre in a new area, transitioning to the countryside for the first time, or upgrading to a substantially different property – these introductions are invaluable.

“This job is really all about people and relationships, rather than just bricks and mortar,” explains Harry, our Head of the Cotswolds region. “We are very fortunate to work with some incredible people and we genuinely want to help them as best we can.”

Building a Dedicated Team

We connect our clients with seasoned solicitors who understand complex property law, experienced planning consultants who know how to navigate local authorities, and highly sought-after architects, builders and structural engineers.

For those buying listed buildings in the country, we provide access to experts in heritage restoration and environmental stewardship. For clients completing on a central London pied-à-terre, we can put them in touch with leading interior designers and help to appoint an exceptional concierge to prepare the house for their arrival.

“I worked with a Los Angeles-based couple who were buying their first property in the UK. They bought a beautiful Grade I listed property in the Cotswolds with animals grazing on the land, and we helped them to put a full team in place to manage it, which was quite challenging because of its remote location,” explains Harry. “That included everyone from landscape architects to heritage consultants, agricultural specialists, architects and surveyors. Being based in the US, the owners weren’t always there to identify an issue straight away, so putting the right team in place for them was vital.”

Beyond the Property

Buying a home isn’t simply about the property – it can also mean settling into a new way of life, possibly even a new country and culture. Our agents have secured their clients access to notoriously discerning private members’ clubs, padel or pony clubs, and put them in touch with the best local helicopter pilots. We’ve helped clients find their dream garden designer as quickly as their next Pilates instructor. And it doesn’t stop at the point of completion.

Our London Partner Philip Eastwood still holds the keys for several of his former clients and when they find themselves in a tight spot, he has personally stepped in to help. “One former client was away in Italy and their goddaughter was dog sitting for them and accidentally locked herself out of the house. It was a Sunday and they contacted me to ask if I could help. So I drove to the office to pick up their spare keys, went to the house and let in the rather stressed dog sitter!” says Philip, adding: “I didn’t think twice.”

There is also a careful consideration of the right fit, explains Harry. “I know these individuals personally, so I can match up not just their technical abilities for the job, but also their personalities to ensure a harmonious connection. And while they may be fully booked for people they don’t know, our close relationship means that I can usually call on their expertise at any time.”

It’s an evolving list, too, and our agents keep ahead of which specialists are at the top of their game and in hot demand. “It’s for me to know who’s operating at the pinnacle of their industry and who I should be introducing people to,” says Harry. “You can’t just buy your way in. You need to fit the profile and have a warm introduction from someone who’s trusted.”

Of course, with everything we do, impartiality, integrity and discretion is key. “I don’t take any commission from the introductions I make. Anyone I introduce to a client is because I genuinely recommend them,” says Harry.

Philip agrees, adding: “It’s a bit like a relay. When you recommend someone, you’re passing on the baton to them and you want to make absolutely sure that they don’t drop it! Everyone we recommend is someone that we’ve had past experience with and we know does an excellent job. And because we’ve been doing this for many years, we have a vast historical knowledge and network.”

Educational Support

Education specialist Richard Northey of The Education Consultancy is one such specialist who we highly recommend to families looking for strategic advice and solutions for schooling; from nursery to 18.

He helps families to understand the strategy required in applying to the country’s finest schools and nurseries, identifies viable options for them and can also assist with the application and placement of the pupil.

“As with finding a home, the school has to be the right fit for the individual. It often comes down to the emotional connection you get with a school when you walk over the threshold, just like with a house. It’s my job to offer strategic advice, present options and find solutions in a world that is constantly changing.”

While he is careful not to indicate that he can help a child to get into a school, the trust that Richard has earned among schools, and his experience, is highly beneficial. “If you have an established relationship with a school, the better your leverage will be to benefit the family you are working with,” he says, adding that he, too, never takes commission from a school.

Experienced Problem-Solving

Very often we identify issues that our clients are unaware of and, crucially, also understand when something presents itself as a potential problem, but isn’t of concern.

It might be spotting a tree stump in a garden that is subject to a Tree Preservation Order that hasn’t been adhered to. On that occasion, Philip immediately identified the issue and put a team in place to deal with it swiftly and efficiently. “It’s that age-old adage of ‘Don’t bring me problems, bring me solutions,’ and that’s what we aim to do. Our role goes far beyond merely the transactional,” explains Philip.

“I had a client get in touch because they were concerned that the vaults of the property weren’t included in the Land Registry title plan. Having dealt with this before, I was able to advise them and put them in touch with the correct person to sort it out. It’s that awareness and experience that is so valuable to our clients.”

Our network, experience and personal approach saves our clients weeks of research, false starts and introductions that don’t quite fit. We make connections that go far beyond convenience and can open doors that would otherwise remain tightly closed.

Harry Gladwin, The Buying Solution

Harry Gladwin is our Head of the Cotswolds

Philip Eastwood, The Buying Solution

Philip Eastwood is our Partner in London


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

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.

River Test Hampshire Valleys

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, our 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 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.

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.

For advice and further insights into the Hampshire Valleys, contact:

Mark Lawson The Buying Solution

Mark Lawson MRICS, our Partner, Southern Counties, and High Value & Rural Estates

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

Katherine Watters, our Partner for the Southern Home Counties

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

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

Explore more of The Buying Solution’s Insights.

The Rise of Wellness in Real Estate

Posted on by Rosalind Sack

Wellness is increasingly shaping the way we choose to live and where we call home. Here, we look at the emerging trends and how our expert buying agents can secure exceptional properties designed to elevate the wellbeing of our clients.

Woman in ice bath wearing grey WHOOP health tracker on wrist.
Image: WHOOP

Wellness is big business and the UK is leading the way in Europe, with the industry in this country estimated to be worth over US $223 billion. Evolving into more than just a personal pursuit, wellness has become a defining factor in how we live and where we choose to call home. At the forefront of this movement is the growing demand for properties that support and enhance our sense of wellbeing, reflecting both environmental and technological trends.

For those navigating the complex and competitive property market in London and the Southern Counties, the expertise of a specialist buying agency is invaluable in sourcing homes that cater to these shifting priorities.

The Rise of Wellness Technology in Homes

Wellness tech, from AI-powered wearables to sleep-optimisation devices, has seen a meteoric rise. Tools like WHOOP health monitors, Oura Rings, and devices designed for nervous system regulation are no longer niche accessories; they’ve become lifestyle staples for many.

How we set up our homes to accommodate wellness tech and AI is becoming ever more important. The implication for properties is clear: spaces need to adapt. Homes with integrated smart systems or the potential to incorporate such technologies are in high demand. Whether it’s a bedroom designed for smart sleep tracking or room layouts that allow for unobtrusive tech integration, the modern home is becoming a wellness hub.

Creating a Sanctuary: Environmental Wellness

In tandem with technological trends, there’s a growing emphasis on environmental wellness ­– both within the home and outside it.

Internally, clients are seeking homes that allow for serene, restorative spaces. So-called ‘zen dens’ – tranquil zones designed for digital detox – are replacing the traditional ‘man cave’, reflecting a shift towards relaxation and recovery over recreation. Reformer rooms for Pilates or spaces dedicated to Nordic wellness practices such as infrared saunas and ice baths are becoming coveted features.

Externally, proximity to green spaces remains a top priority; a demand accelerated by the pandemic that shows no sign of slowing down. Areas such as Hampstead with its famous outdoor swimming ponds on the Heath, Richmond with its 10-acre Ham Lake outdoor pool within a large nature reserve, and neighbouring areas to Hyde Park which houses the Serpentine Lido, are all excellent choices for wellness-oriented buyers.

Wellness by Design: Natural Light, Quiet Spaces and Soundproofing

The design of the property itself plays a crucial role in supporting wellness. A wealth of natural light – essential for mental health and vitality – is a non-negotiable for many buyers. Soundproofed interiors and bedrooms positioned in quieter areas of the home are also in high demand, reflecting a desire to minimise stress and maximise rest. More intimate spaces dedicated to calming pursuits are being carved out; with the likes of flower rooms, listening rooms, even star-gazing rooms growing in popularity. Our extensive network of leading architects and interior designers is uniquely equipped to expertly craft these highly sought-after spaces in any new home.

Freehold homes offer greater flexibility to add bespoke features such as smart saunas, reformer rooms, or dedicated relaxation areas. We have even seen hyperbaric oxygen chambers – favoured by athletes for recovery – installed in private homes. Apartments, meanwhile, are not exempt; balconies are increasingly being adapted for wellness, housing everything from compact ice baths to zen-inspired switch-off areas.

Deer in Richmond Park at sunrise
Image: Unsplash
Location Matters: A Slower Pace and Better Air Quality

Geographical considerations are just as critical. Beyond green spaces, buyers are looking for areas with better air quality, less noise pollution and a village-like feel. Outer London regions such as Richmond (pictured), Wimbledon and Dulwich offer a slower pace of life while retaining easy access to the city’s amenities, and we are expertly-placed to advise on property in these areas.

This trend aligns with a broader desire for wellness on a community scale, with buyers valuing proximity to yoga studios, community saunas and outdoor swimming facilities where they can benefit from a personal connection with others.

How a Buying Agency Adds Value

Navigating the complexities of sourcing a property that supports a holistic approach to wellness requires extensive market expertise and a highly tailored approach. Our specialist buying agents at The Buying Solution have an intimate understanding of both client needs and market dynamics, making us best placed to identify properties that meet exacting wellness criteria.

By understanding the nuances of these trends, we not only save clients precious time but also provide a highly competitive edge in securing properties that might otherwise be overlooked.


Get in touch with our London team here. For news, expert commentary and invaluable property insight, subscribe to The Insider, our quarterly newsletter, 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.

Elegant Christmas Destinations Guide: Country

Posted on by Rosalind Sack

From refined shopping destinations to stately country retreats, discover our guide to the finest festive events and destinations across our country regions…

Exterior of large country house hotel Heckfield Place with frost on the lawn and christmas tree
Heckfield Place
Hampshire House Guests

Resident guests and Friends of Heckfield Place in Hampshire, the lovingly restored five-star Georgian estate, can enjoy a beautiful selection of experiences throughout the season. Highlights include wreathmaking and willow-weaving workshops, festive films in the screening room and a grand Christmas tree lighting ceremony with carolers in the grounds.

Resident guests will be treated to a Christmas Eve sleigh ride, feasting and live music on Christmas Day and Boxing Day duck herding, followed by family tree hunts and wine tastings between Christmas and New Year. While it may be too late to book for this year, why not plan ahead for next?

The Festive Royal Borough

Ascot’s final race meeting of the year – the Howden Christmas Racing Weekend – is always hugely popular and, as ever, it promises a great day on the track as well as plenty of festivities off it. Family entertainment on the Saturday includes candle-lit carol singing with the Ascot Brass Band and an appearance by Father Christmas himself.

Nearby Windsor Castle pays homage to 1,000 years of royal history this Christmas with a number of special events. At the centre of the beautifully decorated State Apartments each year stands the 20-foot-high Nordmann Fir tree in St George’s Hall, which is felled from Windsor Great Park and dressed with thousands of lights.

Elegant West Sussex Estates

Whether you choose to stay at the Hotel over Christmas or simply visit, with twinkling lights strung up on the hundreds of trees across the 11,000-acre Goodwood Estate in West Sussex it’s a magical setting. Culinary masterclasses, late-night shopping events, festive afternoon teas and the ultimate Après Ski Party; the Estate has a hugely varied programme of events throughout December and into the New Year. Their candlelit carol service in the resplendent Front Hall of the House is always a memorable event.

Travelling north to the magnificent 17th-century National Trust-owned Petworth House, visitors can marvel at the beautifully adorned historic rooms and enjoy late-night openings, choir performances, a makers’ market and wreathmaking workshops.

A Cotswolds Christmas

The bucolic country retreat of Thyme, a ‘village within a village’ in the Cotswolds, is leaning in to the slow and intentional side of Christmas with cookery classes, wreathmaking and wellness events. This is a place to unwind and recharge before the festive excess takes over. A half-an-hour drive north to Daylesford Farm and there are still spaces left on a number of their wreathmaking workshops, or take the children to meet Dancer and Blitzen while you wander the farm shop in search of gifts.

Elsewhere in the Cotswolds, guests at Estelle Manor near Witney can enjoy all manner of special events, inspired by festive folklore. The centrepiece is an ice rink for up to 60 skaters on the north lawn lit by pretty festoon lights which is open until 5th January.

Enchantment at Waddesdon

The great Rothschild estate of Waddesdon Manor in Buckinghamshire always goes to town with their festive celebrations and, this year, visitors can enjoy winter cellar tours and wine tastings and festive afternoon teas in the house. But the real magic takes place in the grounds which will be transformed with light projections on the Manor façade, a light trail through the gardens and artwork installations, all inspired by the classic tale of Sleeping Beauty. Waddesdon’s ever-popular Christmas fair and late-night openings also return this year.

Meet our specialist Country team of buying agents here and get in touch to find out more about how they can assist with your next property search.

In the Press: The Buying Solution in Bloomberg

Posted on by Rosalind Sack

Harry Gladwin, The Buying Solution Partner and Head of the Cotswolds Region, speaks to Sarah Rappaport at Bloomberg about the rise of the ‘party barn’; the new must-have in the most sought-after areas of the English countryside.

Party-barn-by-Sims-Hilditch
Party barn designed by Sims Hilditch

Read the article on Bloomberg here.

In the Press: The Buying Solution in The Telegraph

Posted on by Jessica Jonzen

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.

STOCK a gateway into a country house in an english village

Read the article in The Daily Telegraph here

What is a Buying Agent & How Can We Help?

Posted on by Jessica Jonzen

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.

London townhouses with pink magnolia tree in spring

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.

STOCK View of historic manor house from across a walled garden with path and lavender ©Getty

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.

Read more about how clients benefit from our exceptional network here.

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, 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 Il Sole 24 Ore

Posted on by Jessica Jonzen

Harry Gladwin, The Buying Solution Partner and Head of the Cotswolds Region, speaks to Nicol Degli Innocenti of Italian broadsheet Il Sole 24 Ore about why the Cotswolds are seeing an increase in demand from European buyers.

Pretty detached Cotswold cottage, Mickleton near Chipping Campden, Gloucestershire, England country

Read the article in Il Sole 24 Ore here