Let the TRAIN
take the strain
The counties surrounding London are enjoying a surge in high-end property prices as commuters forsake the capital in favour of the country says Lisa Burn
F
or those working in the capital, living in London is not always desirable. There is an increasing tendency for people to move away from the city to the suburbs and further afield, encouraged by less expensive property prices, a better quality of life and fast train services into major business centres. Even at the luxury end of the market, £1million will buy much more outside London than it will in the capital itself. According to research published in November 2015 by international real estate adviser Savills, commuter housing markets are set to outperform London markets from now until 2020. Sophie Chick, Savills research associate director, comments, “We expect the trend for urban living to continue as London buyers seek out Grovewood, Beaconsfield, Buckinghamshire vibrant locations where they don’t have to Nearest railway station: Beaconsfield (approx half a mile sacrifice the convenience of living close to away) for services to London Marylebone shops, restaurants and leisure facilities.” Journey time: Around 25 minutes The research states that, while prime London property prices are 36.8% This newly constructed Georgian-style property above their 2007 level, property prices sits within landscaped gardens and enjoys a wealth of in commuter areas rose just 6.6%. This luxurious features, including a marble reception hall, obviously makes for a great investment picture windows, galleried landing, walk-in wardrobes opportunity as prices rise in the future, and bi-fold doors opening on to a stone terrace. The but also means buyers are in a position to ground floor comprises a family room, drawing room, purchase far larger properties than would dining room, study, library and open-plan kitchen and otherwise be the case. breakfast area. Matthew Craker, director of Upstairs the master suite includes a dressing room Fine & Country Brookmans Park, based and en suite bathroom; the five remaining bedrooms in Hertfordshire, says, “We sell many all have en suite bath, or shower rooms also. A cinema properties to commuters who are moving and games room is located on the top floor, alongside out of London. While the prices in our a leisure room with spa. Outside, the garage is large area aren't particularly cheap, there are lots enough for three cars and features a self-contained of purchasers who see real value compared guest studio above with fitted kitchen and shower room. to the price that they may be selling at in £4.75m / €6.74m/ $7.17m Savills +44 (0)1494 731950 International Property & Travel
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16/12/2015 13:38