Overseas Buyers

London has long attracted discerning international buyers who value heritage, stability and long-term quality. Acquiring property here as an overseas buyer requires more than access, it demands trusted local representation and discretion.

At the heart of our service are integrity, confidentiality and long-term relationships. As an independent property search company, we act exclusively on your behalf, providing a highly personalised approach tailored to your objectives, whether you are securing a primary residence, a London base or an investment.

We understand the complexities overseas buyers face from differing legal systems and tax considerations, to the practical realities of purchasing from abroad. Our role is to simplify the process, manage each stage and ensure you proceed with clarity and confidence.

Through our extensive network, we provide access to off-market opportunities which may never hit the open market, as well as publicly listed properties. We work with a limited number of clients at any one time – each search remains focused, discreet and comprehensive.

Our service extends beyond the property search itself. We will also assist with the practicalities of settling into your new home, and where required, we can introduce you to trusted professionals, including lawyers, tax advisors, educational consultants and interior designers, ensuring you are fully supported with every aspect handled smoothly.

If you are considering your next move, we would be pleased to discuss your plans.

FAQs

What tax considerations apply when buying a London property from overseas?

Stamp Duty Land Tax is calculated on a sliding scale according to the purchase price. If the purchase means you will own more than one residential property anywhere in the world, an additional 5% surcharge applies. This does not apply when replacing your main residence, regardless of how many properties you own. If you buy before selling your existing main residence, the additional 5% is paid initially and can be reclaimed if that residence is sold within 3 years. Non-UK residents pay a further 2% surcharge. This can be reclaimed once the buyer has spent at least 183 days in the UK during a qualifying 365-day period from completion, within the permitted two-year period around completion.

We advise clients to seek independent tax advice.

Can you manage my London property search while I am overseas?

We first establish and agree your brief and, once retained, we will identify and preview suitable properties before providing a focused shortlist. We can arrange videos of selected properties and organise in-person viewings around your visits to London.

Other than Stamp Duty Land Tax, what additional costs should overseas buyers consider?

Additional costs will include legal fees and, where applicable, survey and financing fees. Foreign exchange and transfer fees should also be considered. For leasehold properties, including those with share of freehold, service charges and ground rent must also be considered. The remaining lease term should always be confirmed and, where an extension is required, the likely cost established. Your solicitor should identify any planned major works during the conveyancing process and confirm any contribution you may be required to make.

Which documents will I need before beginning a London property search?

We will complete the required Know Your Client (KYC) and Anti-Money Laundering (AML) checks, which include a copy of your passport or driving licence and proof of your residential address. Your solicitor will also require identification documents as part of their onboarding process.

How do you manage the offer and negotiation process?

We assess the asking price against comparable sales, current market conditions, any competing interest and what is known about the seller’s position before agreeing a written opening offer. We present the offer with your funding position, proposed timescale and any conditions. We keep you informed of the seller’s response and agree any revised offer with you before you confirm the final terms in writing.

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