Hamptons launch Best of British campaign

Hamptons are to take a portfolio of 100 UK properties to sell to wealthy buyers in Arabia.

Called the Best of British, the agent’s campaign targets international purchasers who want to take advantage of lower house prices, together with a weak pound.

A Hamptons spokeswoman said: “We have seen a strong increase in overseas buyers over the last few months, with figures indicating that in prime central London alone there has been a 20% rise in European buyers. The country market is witnessing a similar trend, with a 12% increase in European and American investors registering to purchase property.

“With average house price discounts across the UK now 20% down from peak, these opportunities are magnified by the effective discount given by the relative strength of other currencies against the pound. For example, a buyer with US dollars can find a current purchase in the UK market 39% cheaper than December 2007. A London property requiring the equivalent of £1m in December 2007 can now be acquired for £470,000.”

The Best of British launches in Dubai on April 15, hosted by Prince Michael. A two-day exhibition in Dubai, expected to attract 1,000-plus wealthy people, will be followed by a second exhibition in Abu Dhabi as part of the Cityscape global real estate event.