Opening doors – watch our latest property event with Kevin McCloud MBE

Renowned designer and presenter of Grand Designs, Kevin McCloud MBE, was joined by Savills’ Head of Research Lucian Cook, our International Team’s Executive Director Arun Suntokeesing and our Chair Managing Director, Rebecca Hughes to talk through the UK’s property scene.

Market outlook

• How interest rates, inflation and affordability continue to impact the market
• How changes in regulation are creating uncertainty for buy to let and second home owners
• Prospects for house price growth over the next five years
• Changing tax landscapes relating to non-domicile status, stamp duty, inheritance tax and private school VAT and how it could affect prime central London property prices
• Ongoing durability of London as a ‘safe haven’ in a global context
• Market outlook for new builds and potential for influential regulatory changes
• Resilience in the rental market, despite the end of double-digit growth
• Evolving trends for ultra-high net worth (UHNW) demand for branded residences

Client considerations

• Demand for trusted wealth managers who can understand and simplify complexities
• The potential for clients to find opportunities around interest rates and foreign exchange rates when it comes to borrowing
• Preference for flexible mortgage structures with an expected lower interest rate environment
• Dynamic opportunities for international buyers in London, supported by recent US dollar strength and geographic demand – 1 in 4 properties above £15m were purchased by Americans over last five years
• Need for tax planning and asset evaluation within agricultural families following changes to agricultural & business property reliefs

Design & development

• High ratio of historic buildings in England and how owning a listed building could ensure you attract the best planners and designers
  
• Potential premiums on high-performance buildings being built by small to medium developers as a point of contrast to the large housebuilders
  
• “We should be producing the finest built environment in the world – but we’re not,” – Kevin McCloud. The need for planners to celebrate and utilise the UK’s leading architects and designers as well as rendering public good in their developments
  
• Importance of considering energy efficiency and functionality in valuing a home

Our Real Estate team could help you find the perfect property. And our bespoke mortgage service means we could provide a mortgage that’s as unique as you are.

As lending costs reduce, our range of borrowing solutions could help you and your family make your move in 2025. We also provide expert support to our international clients who might be looking to benefit from unique opportunities in prime central London.

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