US-based property buyers are showing increased interest in the UK real estate market, with enquiries up 19% year-on-year, according to new data from Rightmove. This marks the highest level of interest from the US in eight years, highlighting a significant trend in international property investment.

Edinburgh Overtakes London as Top UK Destination for US Buyers

In a shift from previous trends, Scotland—particularly Edinburgh—has surpassed London as the most searched-for location by US buyers. Edinburgh now accounts for 28% of all US enquiries, compared to 26% for London. Westminster, previously the top choice, has slipped to second place, while Glasgow has climbed to fourth, overtaking traditional favourites like Kensington and Chelsea.

What Type of UK Properties Are American Buyers Looking For?

Rightmove’s data reveals that:

• 47% of enquiries from the USA are for smaller properties (0–2 bedrooms), indicating strong demand for investment properties and second homes.
• 32% of enquiries are for larger homes with 3–4 bedrooms, suggesting some interest in family relocation or long-term stays.

Why Are More Americans Looking to Buy Property in the UK?

Experts link the rising interest to global economic uncertainty, especially in light of recent US policy developments. Rightmove’s property expert Colleen Babcock notes:

“President Trump’s tariff announcements have led to more economic uncertainty globally, and we’re starting to see some of the effects of this on the UK property market.”

Babcock added that while US enquiries remain a small portion of total UK property interest, the trend is worth watching—particularly for estate agents and developers targeting international buyers.

Prime Central London Still Attracts High-Net-Worth Americans

Despite Scotland’s rise in popularity, Prime Central London remains a hotspot for affluent American investors. Glynn Gibb, Regional Director at John D Wood & Co, commented:

“We’ve seen a steady rise in enquiries from US buyers in Prime Central London over the past year. Many are high-net-worth individuals seeking to move capital into stable markets like the UK.”

He added that London is viewed as both a safe haven and a strategic base for Americans looking to maintain global connectivity and access to European markets.

For buyers expecting to stay in the UK for fewer than five years, renting may be more cost-effective, especially considering the additional Stamp Duty Land Tax for overseas buyers.

Seasonal Spike Expected

With spring and summer traditionally busy periods for property transactions, agents expect activity from US buyers to increase further in the coming months, driven by political, economic, and lifestyle considerations.

Key Takeaways for US Buyers Interested in UK Property

• Interest in UK property from US buyers is at an 8-year high.
• Scotland, especially Edinburgh, is now more popular than London.
• Smaller properties dominate interest, suggesting a focus on investment.
• Economic and political uncertainty in the US is influencing relocation and investment decisions.

For American investors considering buying property in the UK in 2025, this could be an ideal time to act, with favourable market conditions and a growing number of US-based buyers exploring opportunities across the UK.