Number of US buyers looking for a home in Britain hits eight year high - here's where they want to buy
The number of enquiries from the US about homes for sale in Britain since the start of the year is 19 per cent higher than the beginning of last year, and the highest since 2017, Rightmove said.
The trend has emerged, according to the property portal, as uncertainty grows around Donald Trump's economic policies, most notably what he may do long-term around international trade tariffs.
Edinburgh is now the most sought-after location for US buyers looking to relocate to, buy a second home or purchase a buy-to-let investment in Britain.
Peter Strang Steel, prime property consultant at Coulters in Edinburgh, told This is Money said: 'We have seen a substantial increase in enquiries from US based buyers since the start of the year, particularly for our property finding service.
'The majority of my current clients are US-based and are looking to buy second homes in Edinburgh or move here on a permanent basis.'
In demand: Edinburgh is the most sought-after location for US buyers, Rightmove said
He added: 'The political turmoil in the US has certainly expedited plans for a number of my clients, who are looking to move to Edinburgh, while others looking for second homes have cited climate change as a factor.
'Edinburgh's cool temperate climate and overload of cultural and architectural brilliance offer a haven for those looking to escape the increasingly hot summer months in the US.'
Jamie McNeill, founder of Prime Edinburgh Property, said: 'We've seen a noticeable rise in interest from US buyers — particularly over the past 12 to 18 months.
'Edinburgh is attracting both returning expats and high-net-worth individuals relocating from the US, drawn by the city's rich culture, global accessibility, and exceptional quality of life.
'We recently acquired an apartment in Edinburgh's West End for clients from the US who plan to base themselves here for much of the year.
'Others are selling homes Stateside and relocating permanently, choosing Edinburgh as their new long-term home.
'They're typically looking for period homes with character — Georgian townhouses, spacious flats in the New Town or West End, and occasionally country estates just outside the city.'
Westminster in London, which is well-known for its sky-high property prices, is the second most popular location for prospective US buyers, having been pipped to the top spot by Edinburgh this year.
Camden, Glasgow, Islington and Kensington and Chelsea are also proving popular with US buyers.
Twenty-eight per cent of US enquiries concern homes for sale in Scotland, against 26 per cent for London, according to the research.
In the last decade, London has typically seen the largest proportion of US enquiries.
However, since the beginning of 2025, it has switched to Scotland, potentially due to its lower price point.
Across all locations, most buyers from the US are searching for smaller studios to two bedroom homes, indicating they are after a second home or investment opportunity.
However, 32 per cent of buyers from the US are looking for 'more mass-market, typical family homes' with three or four bedrooms, Rightmove said.
Colleen Babcock, Rightmove's property expert, said: '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.'
Glynn Gibb, Regional Director at John D Wood & Co said: '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.
'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.'
How to find a new mortgage
Borrowers who need a mortgage because their current fixed rate deal is ending, or they are buying a home, should explore their options as soon as possible.
Quick mortgage finder links with This is Money's partner L&C
> Mortgage rates calculator
> Find the right mortgage for you
What if I need to remortgage?
Borrowers should compare rates, speak to a mortgage broker and be prepared to act.
Homeowners can lock in to a new deal six to nine months in advance, often with no obligation to take it.
Most mortgage deals allow fees to be added to the loan and only be charged when it is taken out. This means borrowers can secure a rate without paying expensive arrangement fees.
Keep in mind that by doing this and not clearing the fee on completion, interest will be paid on the fee amount over the entire term of the loan, so this may not be the best option for everyone.
What if I am buying a home?
Those with home purchases agreed should also aim to secure rates as soon as possible, so they know exactly what their monthly payments will be.
Buyers should avoid overstretching and be aware that house prices may fall, as higher mortgage rates limit people's borrowing ability and buying power.
How to compare mortgage costs
The best way to compare mortgage costs and find the right deal for you is to speak to a broker.
This is Money has a long-standing partnership with fee-free broker L&C, to provide you with fee-free expert mortgage advice.
Interested in seeing today's best mortgage rates? Use This is Money and L&Cs best mortgage rates calculator to show deals matching your home value, mortgage size, term and fixed rate needs.
If you're ready to find your next mortgage, why not use L&C's online Mortgage Finder. It will search 1,000's of deals from more than 90 different lenders to discover the best deal for you.
> Find your best mortgage deal with This is Money and L&C
Be aware that rates can change quickly, however, and so if you need a mortgage or want to compare rates, speak to L&C as soon as possible, so they can help you find the right mortgage for you.
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