London - May 2009 - Hamptons International, one of the UK’s leading residential agents reports strong interest from overseas buyers following the successful launch of its latest initiatve – 'Best of British' – across the Middle East.
Hamptons 'Best of British' initiative showcased a wide selection of UK property in both Dubai and Abu Dhabi, enabling customers to market their properties directly to an international audience actively looking to buy in the UK.
Following the weakening of the pound and a drop of approximately 25% in prices since the peak of the market, the UK has witnessed a surge of interest from overseas buyers. Recent Hamptons' figures indicate there are now 2.5 times as many Middle Eastern applicants (year to date) than compared to the same period in 2008.
The 'Best of British' campaign kicked off in Dubai on the 15th April with a high-profile auction evening in aid of The Prince’s Trust. The city’s socialites mingled with businessmen and investors during the glamourous VIP event with His Royal Highness Prince Michael of Kent as the Guest of Honour.
Following the exclusive charity event, two property road shows took place in Dubai and Abu Dhabi (16th - 18th April and the 19th - 22nd April respectively). Both events were a great success, enabling Hamptons International to directly link UK sellers with prospective overseas residential buyers and investors.
As a result of the road shows around 130 prospective purchasers from the Middle East are arranging visits to the UK with the intention of buying residential property. Many viewings have already been arranged and sales have started to take place. Demand was predominantly for London property, followed by commuter town locations and finally rural areas across the UK. Investors were more focused on new development stock.
Marc Goldberg, head of residential sales, Hamptons International comments: "We have seen a strong increase in the level of international buyers over the last few months – particularly from the Middle East. The increasing consensus that the UK market has reached the bottom, along with a weak pound adding extra value on top of the price falls witnessed over the last 2 years, has undoubtedly helped to drive this demand. The 'Best of British' campaign was designed to tap directly into this market and connect active sellers with prospective buyers of UK property. This campaign has proved very successful."
For more information, photography or to arrange an interview please contact:
Lucy Gaynor, PR Manager, gaynorl@hamptons-int.com or 0207 589 9775
Jane Jorgensen, Associate Director – PR, jorgensenj@hamptons-int.com or 0207 589 9775