Navigating London’s ‘Fiddly’ Property Market: Insights from Savills’ Sebastian Deckker
London’s property market is a dynamic and complex landscape, often described as ‘fiddly’ due to its unique challenges and opportunities. In an exclusive interview with Sebastian Deckker, Director of Valuations at Savills, we uncover the latest trends, challenges, and predictions shaping this market, particularly for individual landlords. Whether you’re a property investor, landlord, or simply curious about London’s real estate, this blog post offers valuable insights into what’s driving the market in 2024-2025.
Meet Sebastian Deckker: A Trusted Expert in Property Valuations
With years of experience as a seasoned valuer, Sebastian Deckker specializes in residential property valuations for a wide range of clients, including banks, solicitors, developers, trusts, and private individuals. His expertise spans London, the Home Counties, and international markets such as France, Monaco, Switzerland, Austria, and Dubai. Sebastian’s deep understanding of the property sector makes him a go-to authority for navigating the complexities of today’s market.
A Stable Yet Active Market for Landlords
Despite a lack of surge in property purchases, Sebastian highlights that London’s property market remains highly active. Revaluations and shifting lenders are common as landlords and investors adapt to evolving conditions. From a seller’s perspective, property prices have shown remarkable stability, with potential for increases in 2024-2025. However, external factors like upcoming elections, rising living costs, and interest rate hikes could influence future trends.
For landlords, this means staying informed and agile. The market rewards those who focus on quality-driven investments, as buyers and tenants increasingly prioritize properties that stand out for their unique features or prime locations.
The Rise of Quality-Driven Investments
One of the key takeaways from Sebastian’s interview is the shift toward quality over quantity in property investments. Properties with distinctive characteristics—such as picturesque gardens, communal spaces, or proximity to sought-after areas—are becoming highly desirable. Areas like Notting Hill, St. John’s Wood, and even international locales like Venice are gaining traction among buyers and investors.
However, properties with quirks or challenges, such as unconventional layouts or maintenance issues, may face hurdles in today’s market. Sebastian advises landlords to address these factors proactively to maximize their property’s appeal and value.
Hotspots to Watch in London’s Property Market
London’s property landscape is ever-evolving, with certain areas emerging as gems for investors and buyers. Notable hotspots include:
• Notting Hill: Known for its vibrant culture and charming properties, this area continues to attract attention.
• St. John’s Wood: A favorite for its serene ambiance and proximity to central London.
• Properties with Unique Features: Homes with communal gardens or picturesque outdoor spaces are particularly sought after.
These areas reflect a growing demand for properties that offer both lifestyle and investment potential, making them key considerations for landlords navigating the market.
Challenges and Opportunities in 2024-2025
Looking ahead, Sebastian predicts a nuanced market influenced by several factors:
• Elections: Political changes could impact buyer confidence and market dynamics.
• Rising Living Costs: Increasing expenses may shift tenant and buyer priorities.
• Interest Rate Hikes: Higher rates could affect affordability, particularly for first-time buyers.
Despite these challenges, opportunities abound for savvy investors. By focusing on high-quality properties in desirable locations, landlords can position themselves for success in a competitive market.
Why This Matters for Landlords
For individual landlords, understanding the intricacies of London’s property market is crucial for making informed decisions. Whether you’re revaluating your portfolio, considering a sale, or exploring new investment opportunities, Sebastian’s insights provide a roadmap for navigating the market’s complexities. His emphasis on quality, location, and adaptability underscores the importance of staying ahead of trends.
Ready to Dive Deeper?
London’s property market is full of potential, but it requires expertise to unlock its opportunities. To learn more or connect with a professional, reach out to the Savills team at ask@londonproperty.co.uk. Stay informed, stay strategic, and make the most of London’s ever-evolving real estate landscape.
Subscribe to our newsletter
London Property is a digital marketplace that aims to address inefficiencies and
complexity in the London real estate market. The company provides informative
and educational content from industry leaders through podcasts and videos, with
new content released weekly. The platform covers various aspects of the real estate
experience, including buying and selling, finance, law, tax, construction, design,
and more. The goal is to provide users with the resources and connections they
need to make informed decisions and navigate the super-prime property market,
with a focus on personal recommendations.
Sign up to our newsletter to be kept informed as new content is released.
SUBSCRIBE