London Real Estate Market Insights 2024: Trends, Predictions, and Challenges - Trevor Abrahmsohn

Trevor Abrahmsohn, with nearly five decades of experience, provides a comprehensive overview of the current trends, predictions, and challenges in the London property market. The past year has been marked by unpredictability, with no discernible pattern in sales or buyer demographics. Despite the upcoming election, sentiment remains calm, and there's cautious optimism fueled by hopes of decreasing interest rates as inflation subsides. The market is highly price-sensitive, and realistic pricing is crucial to facilitate sales. Overpricing can lead to properties languishing unsold for years.

Reflecting on recent years, Trevor recalls the post-COVID bounce-back when properties attracted significant interest and multiple offers. However, the fervor has cooled. Properties that once garnered 30 to 40 viewings and multiple offers now attract far fewer viewings and only one or two offers, highlighting the market's current subdued state.

Trevor expresses concern about the potential impact of the upcoming elections. He notes that the prospect of a Labour government has not significantly unsettled the market. The Labour Party's moderate manifesto has managed not to alarm the middle to upper-middle-class demographic. However, Trevor warns of potential risks if Labour secures a landslide victory, as it may embolden the party to implement more radical policies hidden in their agenda.

Turning to the rental market, Trevor criticizes government interference, particularly proposals for rent controls and increased tenant protections. Such measures could exacerbate the current shortage of rental properties. With buy-to-let landlords facing reduced fiscal benefits and higher borrowing costs, many have exited the market, leading to a constrained supply. Meanwhile, demand for rentals has increased as prospective buyers find it harder to save for deposits amid rising borrowing costs. Additional regulatory burdens could further dissuade landlords, driving up rental prices and disadvantaging vulnerable tenants.

Discussing non-domiciled residents (non-Doms), Trevor acknowledges the political controversy surrounding this group. Non-Doms contribute significantly to the UK economy by investing capital, starting businesses, and creating jobs. Recent reforms targeting non-Doms have prompted some to leave the UK. Trevor emphasizes the importance of welcoming international investors, particularly in the post-Brexit era, to maintain London's status as a global financial hub. He highlights the unique appeal of London, with its 45% green spaces, cultural diversity, world-class education, and concentrated opportunities in various industries.

Despite challenges, Trevor remains optimistic about London's real estate market. He praises London's ability to attract global talent and investment, noting its unparalleled combination of amenities, opportunities, and quality of life. He criticizes the current planning system for its restrictive approach and advocates for reform to facilitate more development and meet housing demand. Trevor believes that with the right policies, London can continue to thrive as the world's greatest city, offering an unmatched living experience.

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