Expat Exchange
Free MembershipSign In
Hampstead, London

Real Estate in England

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Feb 10, 2024

Summary: An expat looking to buy a home in the UK should start by researching the local housing market and familiarizing themselves with the different types of properties available. They should also consider their budget and the type of property they are looking for. It is also important to consider the location of the property and the amenities it offers. Foreigners are allowed to buy property in the UK, however, there are restrictions on the type of property they can purchase. For example, foreign nationals are not allowed to buy properties that are listed as “protected” or “special”. Houses in the UK typically include amenities such as central heating, double glazing, fitted kitchens, and bathrooms. Some properties may also include a garden, garage, or off-street parking.

Allianz Care
Allianz Care
Allianz Care
Allianz Care

How do I find a place to live in England?

We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"There are several different options for finding a place to live in England. A good place to start is online classifieds sites such as Rightmove or Zoopla, where you can browse through hundreds of listings and narrow down your search by location, budget and preference. You can also search general property websites such as OnTheMarket, which provides details of rental and buying prices in a local area, or visit local estate agents or letting agents who will be able to provide information on properties in your desired area. Word of mouth may be another avenue to explore when searching for a place to live in England; ask friends or family members who may have information on available properties. Some estate agents also hold open house viewings that can be useful if you’d like to view properties in person," remarked one member in UK.

"We chose our neighborhood based upon an area that a friend was already living in and recommendations from other US expats. About a month prior to our move, we came to London on a flat-hunting trip. With our relocation agent, we looked at about 20 flats in three different areas (St Johns Wood, Notting Hill/Holland Park, Kensington) over a two day period," explained one expat living in London, UK.

Answer this Question

GeoBlueGeoBlue
Get Quote

GeoBlue is a trusted leader in international health insurance. Wherever your destination, GeoBlue can keep you and your family covered with the right health insurance. Get a GeoBlue Quote Today!

GeoBlueGeoBlue

GeoBlue is a trusted leader in international health insurance. Wherever your destination, GeoBlue can keep you and your family covered with the right health insurance. Get a GeoBlue Quote Today!
Get Quote

What is a typical expat home or apartment like in England?

Please login to continue reading this article.

Not a member? Join Today (it's free).

About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.

Hampstead, London

Allianz Care
Allianz Care

Flexible solutions allow you to tailor your cover to meet your needs and budget. Use Promocode: LIFE10 and get 10% off your international health insurance for life!
Get Quote

Allianz CareAllianz Care

Flexible solutions allow you to tailor your cover to meet your needs and budget. Use Promocode: LIFE10 and get 10% off your international health insurance for life!
Get Quote

Contribute to UK Network Contribute
Help others in UK by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in UK.

Allianz Care
Allianz Care

Copyright 1997-2024 Burlingame Interactive, Inc.

Privacy Policy Legal