Interest from US-based buyers in UK residential property has reached its highest level in eight years, according to new data from Rightmove.
Enquiries from prospective US buyers looking at UK homes for sale have risen by 19% year-on-year in 2025, marking the strongest start to a year since 2017.
The increase spans both relocations and international purchases for investment, second-home, or buy-to-let purposes.
Rightmove’s analysis shows that 47% of US enquiries are for smaller properties with up to two bedrooms – typically aligned with investment or pied-à-terre purchases. Meanwhile, 32% of enquiries are for three- to four-bedroom homes, indicating continued interest in mainstream family housing.
SCOTTISH BOOST
Scotland has overtaken London as the most-enquired-about region among US buyers. Historically, London has drawn the largest share of interest from the US market. However, since the beginning of this year, 28% of US buyer enquiries have been focused on properties in Scotland, compared with 26% in the capital.
Within Scotland, Edinburgh now ranks as the most searched-for location, surpassing Westminster, which had previously topped the list. Glasgow has also risen in popularity, now the fourth most-enquired-about location, ahead of traditionally sought-after areas such as Kensington and Chelsea.
GLOBAL TENSIONS
The growing US interest comes as uncertainty grows around President Trump’s economic policies, most notably what he may do long-term around international trade tariffs. UK property is generally seen as a relatively stable asset class, supported by favourable exchange rates and competitive pricing in regional markets.
The data also reflects an increasingly diverse geographical spread of international buyer demand, beyond traditional prime central London postcodes.
ECONOMIC UNCERTAINTY
Colleen Babcock, Rightmove’s property expert, says: “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.
“Whether it’s because the UK is seen as a more stable investment opportunity, or whether some buyers are considering a permanent move across the Atlantic, we’re seeing an increase in enquiries from the US. While a really interesting trend, it’s important to note that only a very small percentage of all UK enquiries come from the US.”
SAFE, STABLE AND STRATEGIC
Glynn Gibb, Regional Director at John D Wood & Co, says: “We’ve certainly seen a steady rise in enquiries from American buyers in Prime Central London, particularly over the past 12 months.
“While it’s not a dramatic uptick, there’s a noticeable trend of high-net-worth individuals looking to move capital into what they see as a safe and stable market.
“For many US clients, London represents both a safe haven and a strategic investment. We’re seeing a number of politically motivated relocations – Americans who are seeking greater stability abroad. London’s culture and global connectivity make it an ideal springboard to Europe and beyond.”
TEMPORARY BASE
And he adds: “ Many are basing themselves here temporarily – often staying with friends – while they work out how long they plan to stay.
“For those expecting to remain less than five years, renting can often make more financial sense, especially when stamp duty is taken into account.
“We expect activity to build in the coming months – spring and early summer are typically busy – as more buyers make lifestyle and financial decisions shaped by the political climate in the USA.”
