US homebuyers flock to UK property amidst Trump effect

Interest from American buyers in UK property has surged to an eight-year high, with Edinburgh overtaking London as the most popular destination. Scotland now accounts for 28 per cent of inquiries from US-based buyers, compared with 26 per cent for Greater London. Edinburgh leads as the city of choice, with other popular destinations including prime areas of London.

According to property website Rightmove, inquiries from the US in the first four months of 2025 were 19 per cent higher than the same period in 2024. Analysts link this trend, dubbed the “Trump effect,” to wealthy liberal Americans seeking a stable and secure alternative abroad due to economic and political uncertainty in the United States.

Nearly half of searches involve smaller properties with up to two bedrooms, while 32 per cent seek homes with three or four bedrooms. The trend spans varying price points, but the appeal of Scotland lies in its relative affordability compared to London. Edinburgh in particular offers prime property at costs that are up to 50 per cent lower per square foot.

Interest remains steady in the luxury end of London’s property market despite recent challenges. American buyers now represent 25 per cent of non-UK purchasers in the £15 million-plus bracket, placing them ahead of Middle Eastern and South Asian buyers. Analysts credit this to renewed efforts by sellers to meet market conditions with realistic pricing, alongside the enduring appeal of London as a global financial hub.

Tightening property regulations, including higher stamp duty and the abolition of non-domicile status, have introduced hurdles for overseas buyers, yet interest in Britain remains significant. Increased inquiries from Americans underscore the perception of the UK as a stable long-term investment opportunity, even amidst economic challenges globally.

The trend appears to have broader socio-political drivers as well. Scottish legal firms report increased inquiries from Americans of Scottish descent seeking citizenship or relocation options, suggesting that cultural or familial ties are also contributing to the uptick in interest. With its lower crime rates and family-friendly environment, Scotland continues to enhance its appeal to transatlantic buyers.

The momentum in the property market reflects a blend of value-driven opportunity and uncertainty-driven decisions, as buyers weigh their options amidst changing geopolitical and economic landscapes.