Investor confidence continues to rise in the UK property market

Steady interest rates for the last six months have boosted the confidence of local and overseas investors in UK properties who view market stability as a good reason to invest. With better mortgage deals at lower interest rates, we are seeing an uptick in buyer enquiries, with more offers floated and an overall increase in market activity for some months.

Interest rate maintained for five months in a row

The Bank of England’s decision to maintain interest rates at 5.25% for the fifth month in a row has been welcomed by investors looking to acquire properties in the UK.

A further drop in inflation

At 3.4%, the Inflation rate in the UK fell to lower-than-expected levels in February. This is down from the 4% mark witnessed in January this year. With inflation at its lowest since September 2021, many economic experts are now projecting the inflation rate to drop even further and reach the Bank of England’s target rate of 2% by the start of summer.

Steady growth in house prices

Halifax, the UK’s largest mortgage lender, reported an increase of 0.4% in the average UK house price between January and February 2024, which has been steadily growing for the fifth consecutive month.

They also reported a 1.5% increase in London’s annual house price growth since January 2023. The UK capital continues to have the highest average house price in the country at £536,996.

Market stability boosting buyer confidence

Many foreign buyers were hesitant about investing in UK properties for much of 2023 owing to high interest rates and inflation. With mortgage offers changing almost daily, the added uncertainty slowed down the property market.

However, as the economy continues to strengthen this year and buyer confidence improves, we are seeing more enquiries from committed buyers and more offers are being made.

This more buoyant market is a welcome sign as we move into spring, which is also the busiest time of the year for our 21 London branches and 14 overseas offices, including our Singapore office.

London’s rental market gathers momentum

London’s robust rental market has led to many fully referenced applicants on our waiting list for every available rental unit.

According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), the cost of renting in the UK has reached a new high. Average rents across the UK increased by 9% in the 12 months to February 2024, the highest rise recorded by the ONS. In London, average rents reached £1,276 per month, an increase of 10.6% over the last year.

Completion of new phases

Fortunately, we are seeing new developments and apartments launching throughout the year, so availability is improving.

To meet the increasing property demand in London, we have over 30 luxury developments nearing completion of a phase in 2024. These include popular projects such as The Powerhouse, Bow Green, White City Living and many more. Developed by leading housebuilders, these properties are attractive to both renters and investors, owing to the excellent on-site amenities and quick commute options that result in higher rental yields and capital appreciation in the long term.

Property events and webinars in Singapore

The increase in market activity during the busy Spring months in the UK has encouraged us to bring a few exciting opportunities for our investors here in Singapore. From properties such as The Peak Tsutenkaku Elite that leverage the upcoming multi-billion dollar Integrated Resort (IR) in Osaka to the latest phase launch of Primrose House at Camden Goods Yard, we have some exciting projects that are sure to catch your interest. Check out our upcoming events and webinars and book your slot at the earliest!