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US Buyers Increasingly Targeting UK Property Market
New data reveals a significant surge in American interest in the UK housing market. The number of property inquiries from the US has reached an eight-year peak, driven by factors such as political uncertainty and the search for investment opportunities. This heightened demand has led to shifts in popular locales, with Edinburgh emerging as a prime target for US buyers seeking homes in Britain.
Increased Interest in UK Homes for Sale
According to Rightmove, inquiries from the United States regarding homes for sale in the UK have increased by 19 percent since the start of the year compared to the same period last year. This represents the highest level of interest since 2017. Growing global uncertainty surrounding international trade policies is reportedly influencing this trend.
Edinburgh: The New Hotspot for US Homebuyers
Edinburgh has become the most desirable location for Americans looking to relocate, acquire a second residence, or invest in buy-to-let properties in Britain. Factors contributing to this include:
- Political Stability: The UK is perceived as a stable and secure investment destination.
- Climate Considerations: Edinburgh’s temperate climate offers an attractive alternative to increasingly hot summers in parts of the US.
- Cultural Appeal: The city’s rich history, architecture, and cultural scene are major draws.
Expert Opinions on the Rising Trend
Real estate professionals have observed a marked increase in interest from American buyers.
Peter Strang Steel, a prime property consultant at Coulters in Edinburgh, noted a substantial rise in queries from US-based individuals, particularly for property finding services. He emphasized that many clients are looking for second homes or planning permanent relocation to Edinburgh, and that “the political turmoil in the US has certainly expedited plans for a number of my clients.”
Jamie McNeill, founder of Prime Edinburgh Property, added that Edinburgh attracts returning expats and high-net-worth individuals seeking a better quality of life, highlighting the city’s “rich culture, global accessibility, and exceptional quality of life.”
London Remains a Key Market for US Buyers
While Edinburgh has taken the lead, London remains a popular destination for American homebuyers. Westminster, known for its premium property values, ranks as the second most sought-after area. Other London boroughs, including Camden, Islington, Kensington, and Chelsea, also continue to attract interest. However, compared to the last decade where London typically saw the largest proportion of US enquiries, Scotland has taken the lead since the beginning of 2025, potentially due to its lower price point.
Property Preferences and Investment Intentions
Across different locations, a significant portion of US buyers are seeking smaller properties with one to two bedrooms, suggesting a focus on second homes or investment opportunities. However, a sizable percentage (32 percent) also express interest in more traditional family homes with three or four bedrooms.
Rightmove’s Analysis of the Market
Colleen Babcock, a property expert at Rightmove, commented on the impact of global uncertainty on the market. She stated, “President Trump’s tariff announcements have led to more economic uncertainty globally, and we’re starting to see some of the effects of this on the UK property market.”
London’s Perspective
Glynn Gibb, Regional Director at John D Wood & Co, confirmed a steady increase in enquiries from American buyers in Prime Central London. He highlighted, “We’ve certainly seen a steady rise in enquiries from American buyers in Prime Central London, particularly over the past 12 months” and that, “Many are basing themselves here temporarily – often staying with friends – while they work out how long they plan to stay.”