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The UK property market continues to attract interest from overseas buyers, but one group is standing out above all others. Buyers from the United States and Canada are now the fastest-growing international purchasers of UK property, with increasing numbers recognising the long-term value of investing in Britain.
For UK expat and foreign national investors, this trend highlights the enduring strength of the UK property market. Despite changing tax rules and higher purchase costs, demand from overseas buyers remains resilient, particularly in areas offering strong rental demand, attractive pricing and long-term growth potential.
North American Buyers Reach Record Levels.
Recent market data shows that North American buyers accounted for almost one in five overseas property enquiries during the first quarter of 2026, representing the highest proportion ever recorded.
Interest from buyers based in the US and Canada has increased significantly over the past decade, even while overall international demand has softened. In fact, registrations from North American buyers rose by 13% compared with the same period last year, despite total overseas enquiries falling by around 10%.
Several factors are driving this growing appetite for UK property. The relative strength of the US dollar against Sterling has improved purchasing power, allowing investors to acquire higher-value assets for less than would have been possible just a few years ago. Combined with comparatively stable property prices and the UK’s reputation for transparent legal processes and a well-established rental market, Britain continues to represent an attractive destination for international capital.
London Is Back in Favour.
Perhaps the biggest surprise has been London’s resurgence. While overseas demand declined across most UK regions, London was the only area to record growth in international buyer interest during early 2026. International enquiries for properties in the capital increased by 8%, with one quarter of all overseas searches now focused on London.
‘Part of this renewed interest stems from pricing’ says Stuart Marshall. ‘Average property values across London remain below their 2022 peak, while some areas of Inner London have seen even larger price corrections. For UK expat and foreign national investors, this creates opportunities to purchase property in one of the world’s leading cities at prices that appear considerably more attractive than they did several years ago.’
‘North American buyers in particular have increased their focus on London, with more than a quarter now searching for homes within the capital. Interestingly, this demand is no longer concentrated solely on Prime Central London. Instead, many buyers are targeting more affordable boroughs where they can secure larger properties, stronger rental yields and better long-term growth prospects.’
Investment Priorities Are Changing.
The profile of international buyers has also evolved considerably over the past decade. Rather than purchasing second homes or speculative investments, a growing proportion of overseas buyers are relocating permanently or purchasing homes for family members. First-time buyers now represent almost a quarter of all international applicants, while demand for buy-to-let investments has declined a little.
‘This reflects changes to UK tax legislation, including higher Stamp Duty surcharges and less favourable tax treatment for overseas landlords’ continues Stuart. ‘However, this does not mean investment opportunities have disappeared. Instead, investors are becoming increasingly selective, focusing on locations where rental demand remains exceptionally strong and where long-term capital appreciation can offset higher acquisition costs. Further, the quality of specialist mortgage products has increased substantially, meaning many overseas investors are able to utilise these products to great effect as investment tools.’
Opportunities Beyond the Capital.
Although London continues to dominate international attention, many overseas investors are also broadening their search into regional cities. Locations including Manchester, Birmingham, Liverpool and Leeds continue to benefit from significant economic investment, growing populations and expanding employment markets. These cities generally offer:
- Lower property purchase prices
- Higher rental yields than London
- Strong tenant demand
- Better affordability for first-time investors
- Long-term regeneration projects supporting future capital growth
For UK expat and foreign national investors looking to build a property portfolio, these regional markets can provide attractive alternatives to London’s traditionally higher entry costs.
Financing International Property Purchases.
Securing the right mortgage remains one of the most important parts of any overseas property purchase. Mortgage availability for UK expats and foreign nationals has improved considerably in recent years, with specialist lenders offering competitive products designed specifically for overseas applicants.
‘However, lending criteria often differ significantly from standard UK residential mortgages.
Factors such as overseas income, currency of earnings, residency status and investment objectives can all influence the products available. Working with a specialist broker can help investors access lenders who understand complex international circumstances while identifying the most suitable mortgage for their individual needs.’
Long-Term Confidence in the UK Market.
Despite political change, tax reforms and economic uncertainty, the UK continues to attract significant overseas investment. Its legal stability, mature housing market, globally recognised cities and consistent rental demand continue to make it an attractive destination for international buyers seeking both capital growth and reliable rental income.
The growing number of North American investors entering the market demonstrates that confidence in UK property remains high. For UK expats and foreign nationals considering their next investment, today’s market continues to present opportunities across both London and many of the country’s fastest-growing regional cities.
Whether you’re a UK expat living overseas or a foreign national looking to invest in Britain’s property market, securing the right mortgage is essential. At Liquid Expat Mortgages, our experienced advisers specialise in arranging buy-to-let mortgages for international investors. We work with a wide panel of specialist lenders to help clients secure competitive finance tailored to their circumstances, making it easier to invest confidently in the UK property market wherever you are in the world.
Liquid Expat Mortgages
Suite 4b, Link 665 Business Centre,
Todd Hall Rd,
Haslingden, Rossendale
BB4 5HU
Phone: 0161 871 1216
www.liquidexpatmortgages.com
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