New residential quarter in scenic Staines-upon-Thames offers the London lifestyle without the expensive price tag
London is still one of the most competitive markets for overseas property investment in 2020, especially for buyers who complete transactions before the 2% increase in stamp duty comes into effect next April. Investing in London property can be even more affordable when following the demand to outlying areas that balance cheaper prices and peaceful countryside living with convenient access to the city, such as Staines-upon-Thames.
This picturesque town on the River Thames is just 30 minutes from Central London, offering direct access to London's financial, cultural and education institutions for professionals and families. More than half of migration into the local area comes from London boroughs, contributing to a projected 24% increase in households by 2039. With 500 new homes required every year to meet this demand, and supply falling far short, house prices are expected to grow by 7.6% per annum from 2020 to 2024, according to Jones Lang LaSalle (JLL). Rental growth is forecast at 8.2% per annum over the same period.
Nick Whitten, JLL UK Head of Residential Research, explains: “We expect history to repeat itself with Greater London and South East locations performing the strongest as we emerge from the COVID-19 crisis, just as they did coming out of the Global Financial Crisis. Once the dust settles house prices and rents will begin to grow again from as soon as 2021 in locations with strong demand fundamentals such as Staines.”
Helping to meet the high demand from migrating Londoners and investors is Eden Grove, a new residential quarter in Staines-upon-Thames by leading UK developer Berkeley. A short walk from the main shopping streets and rail connections to London, and less than three miles from the UK's largest airport, Eden Grove is now welcoming overseas buyers looking for alternative London property.
The best of both worlds
On the edge of London's green belt, Staines-upon-Thames is surrounded by protected green space, from riverside paths and formal gardens to the open Surrey countryside. Some of England's most popular attractions are close by, including royal Windsor and Hampton Court Palace, celebrated sport grounds Ascot Racecourse and Twickenham, and the modern thrills of Thorpe Park theme park.
For families with children and other students, living in Staines-upon-Thames puts some of the UK's most prestigious education opportunities close at hand, from highly-rated local primary and secondary schools to notable colleges and universities. Eton College and Royal Holloway University are in the local area, while Imperial College, King's College London and the London School of Economics are less than an hour away.
The market town itself may be small, but it's not lacking in amenities. The historic high street offers an eclectic mix of global brands and independent boutiques, with dining options from Michelin-starred restaurants and gastropubs to international cuisine. As a business destination, Staines-upon-Thames ranks in the top 10% in the UK for economic growth potential, according to dataloft and UKCI, with more than 1,100 businesses opening since 2010. Global companies including bp, Bupa, Netflix and Salesforce have chosen the area for their local headquarters, drawn by its cheaper property prices and convenient access to London and Heathrow Airport.
Landscaped luxury living
The signature new residential development of Staines-upon-Thames, Eden Grove is an attractive collection of contemporary homes arranged as pavilions around a landscaped garden and central water feature. Oriented to maximize natural daylight, the spacious open-plan apartments are fitted out with the latest appliances and quality materials, available in a choice of stylish color palettes. Residents at Eden Grove will also have exclusive access to premium amenities rarely found in the local area, including a private gym, cinema and co-working space and a 24-hour concierge in the lobby.
For more information about Eden Grove and other residential properties in London, click here or contact JLL International Residential at +852 3759 0909 or irp.hk@ap.jll.com.
