Tag: London

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: London

Posted on by Rosalind Sack

London conjures up the magic of Christmas like few other cities, with all manner of memorable events and destinations for all ages. Discover our pick of this year’s finest…

Window on Fortnum & Mason red brick period building with christmas trree decorations and christmas garlands
The Home of Christmas

Few places do Christmas better than Fortnum & Mason; a master of enchanting festive experiences since Victorian times. Indeed, Charles Dickens described it as ‘a perfect fairy palace’ in December 1845. They supplied woodcock pies to Edward VII and George V at Christmas for many years and the Queen Mother would insist on wrapping her own presents in the store. Its fairytale window displays and festive demonstrations, masterclasses and performances continue to captivate this season.

Theatrical Delights

The English National Ballet’s annual performance of The Nutcracker at London Coliseum has also become a much-loved tradition since first delighting audiences in 1950. Set to Tchaikovsky’s masterful score, this year’s production is a new re-telling of the classic, brought to life by over 100 dancers and musicians.

Elsewhere, The Royal Opera House stages an enchanting production of Cinderella; a co-production between The Royal Ballet and the National Ballet of Canada. While the Royal Albert Hall’s programme of festive events includes performances by Jamie Cullum, Katherine Jenkins, the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and London Community Gospel Choir, as well their much-loved sing-along carols.

A Touch of Luxury

Claridge’s spectacular Christmas tree becomes a Mayfair landmark each winter. Since it was designed by John Galliano for Dior in 2009, it has become tradition that each year it is brought to life by a different eminent designer. This year, the 19ft tree is the creation of Sir Paul Smith who has filled its branches with 100 bespoke birdhouses, each with a playful twist in his signature style.

London’s hotels – from The Corinthia to The Ned – are hosting all manner of festive afternoon teas to mark the season. We recommend a visit to Harrods stalwart The Georgian, where you can enjoy an exquisite menu overseen by executive pastry chef Markus Bohr. It’s also an opportunity to admire the recent extensive refurbishment and restoration of this grand, historic venue – which first opened within the department store to much fanfare in 1911.

Time for Reflection

Nearby Grosvenor Square hosts Anya Hindmarch’s spectacular Ever After Garden which is open until mid-December. This incredible carpet of over 30,000 illuminated white roses first lit up the square in 2019 in memory of the late production designer Michael Howells. It has since served as an annual garden of remembrance in support of The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity and visitors are encouraged to dedicate a rose in exchange for a charity donation.

Meet our specialist London 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 the Financial Times

Posted on by Rosalind Sack

Jemma Scott, The Buying Solution Partner and specialist agent in the Northern Home Counties, talks to Alexandra Goss of the Financial Times about ‘the downsizing shake-up’ and the biggest challenges for downsizers in the current market.

Sarah Frances Kelley for The Buying Solution

Read the article in the Financial Times here.

In the Press: The Buying Solution in The Telegraph

Posted on by Jessica Jonzen

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

Sarah Frances Kelley for The Buying Solution

Read the article in The Telegraph here

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

Posted on by Jessica Jonzen

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Will Watson, Head of The Buying Solution

Will Watson is Head of The Buying Solution

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

The Budget’s Impact on the Prime Central London Property Market

Posted on by Jessica Jonzen

With the dust settling after Chancellor Rachel Reeves’ delivery of the first Labour budget in 14 years, Will Watson, Head of The Buying Solution, assesses how prevailing uncertainty could create exceptional opportunities.

As buying agents operating in the prime property market, the recent UK budget has left many in our industry with mixed feelings. In the immediate aftermath, there was a collective sigh of relief – things could have been worse. But as we’ve had more time to comb through the details, it feels as though there is “small print within the small print.” This lingering uncertainty has put the market in a cautious holding pattern, and while this isn’t ideal, it has created unique buying opportunities for those who can see beyond the headlines.

The non-domicile (non-dom) status proposals, in particular, are keeping high-net-worth foreign individuals on edge. While the government hasn’t taken direct action yet, the signal is clear: more changes are likely coming. London remains a magnet for ultra-wealthy buyers from around the world, and I believe this budget cycle could amplify that. If overseas buyers feel the UK’s tax landscape could stabilise in their favour – through a simplified flat fee for non-doms of £200,000-£300,000, akin to Italy’s approach – we could see renewed international interest. Until then, however, many buyers are maintaining a wait-and-see approach, postponing significant moves until they feel the market is on more predictable ground.

Inheritance tax is another point of friction. With unused pensions now being moved into that scope and heirs being taxed 20% for anything over £1million, the potential tax bill on assets will be so steep – potentially nearly 70% once inheritance and income tax are factored in – that many are reconsidering how to structure their investments. Property has long been a stable asset to pass down to the next generation, and London real estate remains uniquely appealing – a tangible, culturally rich asset that no financial portfolio can replicate.

The high end of the market is ripe with good properties, but they aren’t all immaculate, turnkey homes. In fact, much of the super-prime stock requires significant work, which puts off many buyers seeking to move quickly. Renovation costs have soared by 30-40% in recent years, and planning permission is also more complex than it used to be. However, clients who are willing to take on these projects could see strong returns as the market recovers. Ironically, many buyers now want a “finished” home, but the reality is that most people end up making changes even when they buy something new. Taking on a project can mean a property truly designed to your taste, and in a quiet market you might secure it at a favourable price.

So, what does this all mean for buyers right now? In short, opportunity. The uncertainty around inheritance tax and non-dom status has slowed the market, giving buyers who are open-minded and flexible a distinct advantage. London remains a global city, highly desirable and underpinned by wealth and cultural appeal. And while prices are softer now, there’s no sense of panic. Those who own these properties often have the financial resilience to wait things out rather than sell at a discount. So, while the market may be stagnant for now, it is poised for a resurgence if economic or political conditions – both in the UK and overseas – shift favourably. London is very reactive, the market could turn around quickly, and those who bought in the current lull will look very prescient.

For now, the best advice for buyers is to stay flexible, think long-term and be ready to seize opportunity. London is, and will likely remain, one of the most desirable property markets globally. While it’s easy to get caught up in tax worries and policy shifts, prime property here isn’t just about financials – it’s about lifestyle, legacy and the enduring appeal of London itself. For those prepared to take a long view, this could be an exceptional time to buy into a city with a remarkable track record of resilience and growth.

Will Watson, 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 PrimeResi

Posted on by Jessica Jonzen

PrimeResi reports on The Buying Solution’s boost to both our London and Country teams with two senior hires, our new partners Toto Lambert in London and Katherine Watters in the Southern Home Counties.

Toto Lambert, The Buying Solution Partner, London
Katherine Watters The Buying Solution Partner Southern Home Counties

Read the article on PrimeResi here.

In the Press: The Buying Solution in The London Magazine

Posted on by Rosalind Sack

Head of The Buying Solution, Will Watson, talks to Alexandra Goss at The London Magazine about the increase in American buyers searching for property in London over the past year and what is prompting them to put down roots in the capital.

Read the article reproduced in The 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.

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.

Celebrating 20 Years of The Buying Solution

Posted on by Jessica Jonzen

2024 marks our 20th anniversary. Here, The Buying Solution Partner Mark Lawson MRICS, who was part of the founding team, reflects on two decades of transformation.

Regency Georgian terraced town houses in London Kensington, England
Georgian houses are still a perennial favourite with our clients

This year marks a significant milestone for The Buying Solution. On 1 September 2004, we opened the doors to our offices in London and Newbury to offer what was then a pioneering service: acting as dedicated representatives and trusted advisors for those seeking to acquire – rather than sell – a property.

Addressing a Market Imbalance

Twenty years ago, buying agents were a rarity. At the upper end of the market, there was an unusual imbalance: sellers had professional representation, while buyers were left without a dedicated advocate. This left buyers – often time-poor and making the largest financial commitment of their lives – without expert guidance through the complexities of the process. It was clear there was a significant gap in the market, and a growing need for independent specialists who could act solely in the interests of the buyer.

As a founding member of The Buying Solution, I embraced the chance to shape a new approach to securing exceptional properties while building lasting client relationships – still core to our ethos today. My background as a Land Agent coupled with a decade in Knight Frank’s Country department gave me a unique understanding of the intricacies involved in acquiring prestigious houses, farms and estates.
We started with a small but focused team – five in the country and three in London, each with unrivalled networks and expertise in their areas. That team has grown to 18 specialists, each as committed to providing discreet, unparalleled service to our clients today as they were in 2004.

TBS vintage brochures
A selection of our vintage brochures from the past 20 years

Then and Now: Technological Advancements

The technological advancements over the past two decades have dramatically transformed how we live and work. In 2004, most of our communication was conducted via phone calls, letters, emails, and even faxes. Today, platforms like WhatsApp have become the preferred communication tool for many of our clients, reflecting the rapid shift toward instant, more convenient forms of interaction.

In 2004, broadband was still in its infancy and hardly a consideration for clients. Now, one of the very first questions we’re asked is about the broadband speed and mobile phone reception at a property. With many clients now working flexibly from home, connectivity has become a top priority, significantly influencing their property decisions in ways unimaginable two decades ago. This shift has also enabled buyers to consider living further from London, in locations they may not have previously entertained, as strong digital infrastructure now allows them to work seamlessly from virtually anywhere.

Our clients have also become noticeably younger. In 2004, the average client was in their 60s; today, most are in their 50s, with some even in their 30s. They are extremely well-informed and arrive with clear expectations for their property. Leisure amenities such as gyms, home cinemas, indoor pools, spas, and state-of-the-art audiovisual systems are now considered essential for many. Even air conditioning is a key requirement for some overseas clients, reflecting a shift in preferences that we rarely encountered two decades ago.

With people increasingly time poor, there is less appetite for taking on a project – something which buyers were willing to take a view on two decades ago. We see that in both London and the country, many of our clients favour a turnkey property which is ready for them to move straight in to.

Shifting Priorities

In 2004, our clients leaned towards more formal entertaining, placing a premium on expansive reception rooms. Today, the kitchen is the true hub of the home – whether in London or the countryside – functioning as a versatile space for cooking, dining, homework, and family gatherings. If a client’s ideal kitchen isn’t found in their desired property, our exceptional network enables us to connect them with leading professionals – ranging from quantity surveyors and builders to planning advisors, architects, and interior designers – to turn their vision into reality.

In the country, we find that our clients now are more sensitive to noise than they were previously. Often, they are moving to the countryside to escape noise and are very wary of it. A significant part of our role during property previews has always been to advise clients on potential issues such as road noise, planned house building, solar farms and new roads, and how these might impact their enjoyment of the property. We carefully assess factors that could worsen over time.

By thoroughly researching these issues before our clients commit to a purchase, we ensure there are no unexpected surprises down the line. While our extensive networks and local knowledge have always been crucial in this process, the internet has greatly amplified our ability to gather information, eliminating the need to spend hours in council offices searching for answers.

Sunset over English countryside in Dorset
Clients buying in the country are more aware of noise than ever

Timeless Desires and Unchanging Values

But some things don’t change. In both the country and in London, our clients still yearn for a beautifully symmetrical Georgian home. Period properties built from brick or stone are always in favour. We still encourage face to face meetings with our clients to help us truly understand their requirements and build that trusted relationship. And we are still always available. In 2004, I would have been on the phone to clients in the evenings and on weekends, and that is still the case now.

For the past two decades, we have set the benchmark for bespoke property buying services, providing expert guidance to help our clients make informed and confident decisions. While the market, technology, and communication have evolved rapidly in that time, the core values that The Buying Solution was founded on remain unchanged. Our team continues to offer a bespoke, discreet service, building lasting relationships and securing exceptional homes for our clients.

And as my colleague Jennifer Hudson, who has also been at The Buying Solution since day one, puts it: “We were a family then and we are a family now.” Here’s to the next 20 years.

Mark Lawson The Buying Solution

Mark Lawson MRICS is Partner, High Value Residential & Rural Estates

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