
Understanding the Shift in the UK Property Market
In recent months, a notable trend has emerged within the high-net-worth (HNW) mortgage sector of the UK. With the departure of non-doms, who are wealthy residents not permanently residing in the UK, the market is witnessing a surge in high-value mortgage issuances. The total amount of mortgages over £5 million reached £3 billion in 2024, marking a remarkable 22% increase from 2023, as reported by chartered accountancy firm Lubbock Fine.
Why Non-Doms Are Leaving and its Market Impact
The spearhead of this transition is the UK government’s recent tax reform impacting non-doms. Starting April 2025, individuals classified as non-doms will face UK taxes on their overseas earnings, prompting many to relocate to countries like Dubai, Portugal, Italy, and the US, where the tax environment is decidedly more welcoming for wealthy expatriates. As Andrew Noton from Lubbock Fine highlighted, “Wealthy UK residents are now seizing the opportunity to snap up those properties and move up the property ladder.”
The Rising Demand from Wealthy UK Residents
As the non-doms vacate, many prime properties have subsequently opened up, drawing interest from affluent UK buyers. Interestingly, unlike non-doms who typically preferred cash transactions, there is a significant shift toward HNW buyers utilizing mortgages to finance their property purchases. This shift indicates a changing landscape, where buyers prefer leveraging financing options instead of liquidating other investments.
Market Stability Beckons
One compelling reason for this migration back towards the UK property market is its perceived stability compared to other residential property markets globally. As Noton further stated, many non-doms are either selling their UK properties or opting to rent them out, adding to the inventory available to domestic buyers. This, combined with an influx of new sales instructions in prime central London being 32% higher than the five-year average, is positively influencing the market outlook.
Exploring the Future of Investment in the UK Property Market
The landscape for prospective buyers in the UK is promising. The Foreign Income and Gains (FIG) regime will allow new tax residents to enjoy a tax exemption on foreign income and capital gains for four years. This provision is attractive to overseas wealthy individuals, enhancing their buying power. Yet, many are strategically opting to rent first, keeping their options open, which reflects a cautious yet optimistic approach to making significant investments.
Real Estate Trends and Opportunities
The shift in purchasing power, coupled with the current tax policies, signals a potential goldmine for savvy investors. The act of financing property purchases through mortgages rather than cash may allow buyers to preserve their wealth and liquidity during this transitional phase of the market. This creates an environment ripe for those who can identify and act on emerging opportunities within the market.
In summary, the UK property market is undergoing substantial evolution as non-doms exit and wealthy UK residents step into their shoes. This presents both challenges and opportunities, positioning the market as an exciting space for property owners and investors alike.
As you navigate these shifts, consider scheduling a consultation to explore how you can take advantage of current market conditions and make informed investment decisions.
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