Properties in England (London or Cambridge)

[Chenonceau]

Is anyone invested in British properties?


(1) What is the prognosis for next 6 years?

(2) And what does one pay attention to when transacting?

(3) What common pitfalls when investing in British properties?

[3Boys]

Chenonceau,

I could tell you, but better to get it from the horses mouth…

Go speak with Paloma Lam of Savills at any of their launches advertised in the papers, very knowledgeable and friendly, and does not put out hot air. She’ll give you the low-down on processes, fees, etc. (Disclaimer, I ain’t in the property business or Savills). It is complicated with more third parties than SG, but not overly so.

Next, there is no substitute for being on the ground to get a feel for the place. Not sure when you were last in London, but you got to put on the ‘property investor’ eyes vs tourist eyes. Compare and contrast across districts and property types. Also, go to <rightmove.co.uk> to benchmark and understand what the general going rate for the area is.

Don’t be afraid to negotiate, just because they are western developers selling does not mean you can’t bargain, and don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.

Be aware of currency risk. You taking a bet on Sterling rising or falling? Whatever the case, be sure you can mitigate either way.

If you happen to take a trip up to the UK to suss the place out, remember to open a Sterling account (HSBC may be a good bank to do so), save yourself some hassle later on. Bring an utilities or credit card bill to show you are who you are and stay where you say you stay. If you happen to buy a property whilst you are there, the lawyers will need it too.

Happy hunting!

[Chenonceau]

3Boys:

Chenonceau,

I could tell you, but better to get it from the horses mouth.....

Whoa! What a dear you are!! No wonder people around here missed ya!!

Thanks much much!

[Caspar Dixon]

Hi if you are thinking about buying from the UK market, and not just the UK developments that get marketed here I can help.


Look at http://www.globrix.com it has the most complete database of available UK properties.

Bear in mind that a lot of overseas investors are buying UK properties that only appeal to overseas investors. This creates two possible difficulties. First the section of the market with overseas investor appeal has much more demand and therefore relatively higher pricing. And second reselling these properties in the future may be difficult, the UK resale market here has little appeal to most overseas buyers.