Asian Buyers Seek Safe Investment and Lifestyle Options in London’s Regent’s View

SINGAPORE, November 13, 2024 – London’s property market has long been a magnet for international investors, particularly those from Asia. In a recent conversation with AsiaBizToday, Dean Summers, Divisional Managing Director – St James / St William Group, a part of the Berkeley Group, outlined key insights into the growing trend of Asian investments in London real estate. His focus was on Regent’s View, an upscale residential development situated on the scenic Regent’s Canal and adjacent to a new park, which has become a hub of interest for Asian buyers, notably from Singapore, Hong Kong, and mainland China.

Regent’s View, known for its expansive skyline views and green surroundings, also offers a host of amenities catering to both investors and families. Located near bustling Broadway Market, which features a vibrant mix of over 70 independent shops and a traditional street market, the development combines the appeal of modern urban living with local community charm. With seamless access to London’s overground and underground rail networks, Regent’s View is minutes from popular destinations such as Westfield Stratford City and Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. Regent’s Views was amongst the winners at the recently held World Architecture Festival in Singapore under the category of WAF – Future Project: Residential.

Dean Summers, Divisional Managing Director – St James / St William Group

Dean Summers highlighted the development’s appeal, noting that a number of sales have been completed to Asian buyers, and interest in the project continues to grow. “Regent’s View offers more than just a place to live; it’s a lifestyle choice, surrounded by cultural touchpoints and convenient transport links. This makes it a sound investment choice, not only for returns but also for lifestyle value,” Summers explained.

Singapore’s Steady Interest in London Property

Summers attributed much of Regent’s View’s success to London’s enduring reputation as a safe, stable investment destination. “We see sustained demand from Southeast Asia, especially Singapore,” he noted, underscoring Singaporeans’ appreciation of London’s strong legal framework, reputable education system, and favourable currency exchange rates. For Singaporeans, the relative strength of the Singapore dollar against the British pound offers a notable advantage, potentially yielding savings of 8-10% on property purchases.

Beyond currency incentives, London’s global educational standing remains a key factor. With 30 of the world’s top 200 universities, London offers ample opportunities for families looking to combine investment with educational prospects for their children. According to Summers, many buyers look to London as a base for their dependents’ studies, often moving from rental accommodation to ownership of properties in developments like Regent’s View.

Comparative View on Investment Returns

Summers also explored the comparative investment landscape between London and Singapore, acknowledging that while the London property market has experienced fluctuations, key areas like Regent’s View continue to attract overseas buyers. In terms of rental yields, prime London properties remain competitive with Singapore, though recent policy shifts have influenced investor behaviour.

“In the past three to five years, we’ve seen a decline in the purely buy-to-let investments. This is largely due to the reduction in tax relief for buy-to-let landlords,” Summers stated. This policy shift has encouraged a shift from speculative investment to ownership focused on long-term value, either for rental returns or personal use. “The stability of London’s property market over the long term makes it an attractive investment that delivers capital appreciation and rental demand,” he added.

Market Resilience and Future Prospects

The conversation inevitably touched on Brexit’s impact on overseas investments in UK real estate. Summers acknowledged that initial uncertainties affected investor confidence, but Brexit itself has not significantly reduced foreign interest in London property. Instead, it was political volatility, such as changes in UK leadership and economic policies, that introduced short-term uncertainty. “We went through three prime ministers within a short period, which understandably led to caution among international buyers,” he said.

Despite these challenges, Summers is optimistic about the market’s resilience and expects stability to bolster confidence further. The UK’s recent government changes, along with the central bank’s policy adjustments, have already contributed to a more predictable investment environment, and Summers foresees steady growth in interest over the coming 18 months.

Aerial view of Regent’s View site

In discussing long-term trends, Summers underscored that the appeal of London as a global city remains strong among Asian investors. With a history of stable returns over the past few decades, a reputable legal framework, and an enduring appeal for lifestyle and education, London real estate continues to be a “safe haven” for investors. While the UK does not offer a “golden visa” programme for property investors like some countries, Summers believes London’s intrinsic value outweighs the absence of such incentives.

Looking ahead, Summers anticipates continued interest from Asia, especially as London’s reputation as an educational and financial hub remains steadfast. Regent’s View, with its attractive location and thoughtful design, is poised to benefit from this trend, making it a prime choice for buyers seeking both investment value and a touch of London’s urban charm.

The steady demand from Asian markets suggests that, despite shifts in policy and economic conditions, London will retain its status as a top destination for international property investment.

Regent’s View: More Than Just Property

Regent’s View is more than just a development; it reflects Berkeley Group’s approach to integrating high-quality housing with vibrant local culture. The scenic waterside location along Regent’s Canal is an immediate draw for Asian buyers, who often prioritise the tranquillity and appeal of canal-side living. The development also fosters local community connections, hosting events that highlight the culinary and creative talents in the area, which adds a unique appeal for prospective buyers.

“Our focus is on creating not just homes but sustainable communities that connect with their surroundings,” Summers shared. The Berkeley Group’s commitment to community engagement has helped Regent’s View resonate with buyers seeking a balanced lifestyle where luxury and local authenticity meet.