Residential Lease Agreement Document with Property Keys and Clipboard on Office Desk

The Renters' Rights Act: What It Means for Landlords

Understand the Renters' Rights Act. Learn how the end of Section 21, new eviction rules, and rent caps affect you. Stay compliant with our expert guide.

The biggest shake-up of private letting in a generation is no longer on the horizon — it has moved in. Here is what has changed, what comes next, and how to keep your property, and your paperwork, in impeccable order.

A traditional English country cottage garden with flowers in summer

Second Homes Tax in the UK: What Buyers Need to Know

Buying a second home in the UK? Understand the latest Stamp Duty surcharges, tax rules for additional dwellings, and key costs for buyers in our 2026 guide

A second home in the UK remains a coveted asset, whether a <a href="https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/buy/cotswolds/property-for-sale/" rel="noopener">country house in the Cotswolds</a>, a <a href="https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/settling-in-london-guide-for-families-and-international-homeowners/" rel="noopener">London pied-à-terre</a> or a coastal retreat. It is also a purchase on which the tax position has tightened considerably in recent years. Prospective buyers should now weigh not only the cost of acquisition, but the charges that accrue during ownership and on eventual sale. This guide sets out the principal points related to second homes tax as they stand in October 2026.

A second home in the UK remains a coveted asset, whether a <a href="https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/buy/cotswolds/property-for-sale/" rel="noopener noreferrer">country house in the Cotswolds</a>, a <a href="https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/settling-in-london-guide-for-families-and-international-homeowners/" rel="noopener noreferrer">London pied-à-terre</a> or a coastal retreat. It is also a purchase on which the tax position has tightened considerably in recent years. Prospective buyers should now weigh not only the cost of acquisition, but the charges that accrue during ownership and on eventual sale. This guide sets out the principal points related to second homes tax as they stand in October 2026.

A row of elegant Georgian terraced houses in London featuring classic white stucco porticos, brick facades, and black iron railings on a sunny day.

How the Strong Dollar Benefits U.S. Buyers in London

Strong dollar? U.S. buyers can snag London property for less. Discover how currency shifts boost your purchasing power in the UK capital.

For American buyers, London offers a distinctive combination of architectural heritage, international influence, and an exceptional range of properties. The capital increasingly presents opportunities to own a home in one of the world’s most sought-after cities.

Luxury flats and apartments in the Knightsbridge and Belgravia districts in London

The Future of Knightsbridge: How Public Realm Design is Transforming the District

Discover how public realm design is transforming Knightsbridge with new green spaces, wider pavements, and a boulevard feel on Sloane Street.

From honey-coloured Yorkstone on Sloane Street to a greener Hans Crescent, London's <a href="https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/luxury-private-shopping/" rel="noopener">grandest shopping quarter</a> is discovering that the space between its buildings matters as much as what lies behind the shop windows.

From honey-coloured Yorkstone on Sloane Street to a greener Hans Crescent, London's <a href="https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/luxury-private-shopping/" rel="noopener noreferrer">grandest shopping quarter</a> is discovering that the space between its buildings matters as much as what lies behind the shop windows.

From Instagram to Exchange: How Social Media is Powering Prime Property Sales

Explore how Instagram, TikTok and social media are reshaping prime property sales, driving demand and connecting luxury buyers with agents globally.

There has been a seismic shift in how marketing and sales operate across myriad industries over the last decade, and prime property is no exception. While the broader impact of social media on consumer behaviour has been dissected and debated at length, its particular role in luxury real estate is a more interesting story than most.

There has been a seismic shift in how marketing and sales operate across myriad industries over the last decade, and prime property is no exception. While the broader impact of social media on consumer behaviour has been dissected and debated at length, its particular role in luxury real estate is a more interesting story than most.

“Renting is a Long-Term First Choice, Not Just a Transitional Step”: Olivia McSweeney on London's Super-Prime Lettings Market

Explore London’s super-prime lettings market with Olivia McSweeney, where renting is a long-term strategy, driven by global demand, tax shifts, and lifestyle trends.

2025 was a defining year for London's prime property market, as seismic policy shifts, global political turbulence, and economic headwinds fostered a mood of caution across the industry. However, the long-term appeal of London as a safe haven was unmistakable, as the capital enjoyed sustained domestic activity and an influx of global wealth. The final stretch of the year was particularly buoyant, with the welcome relief of the highly anticipated Autumn Budget clearing the path for activity in 2026.

Outlook for 2026: Emerging Trends Defining London’s Prime Property Market

London’s prime property market in 2026: trends, forecasts, and insights for buyers, sellers, and investors in central and outer areas.

United Kingdom Sotheby’s International Realty is off to a flying start in 2026, having agreed sales on £430 million worth of stock – a strong showing that reflects renewed vitality across the UK’s prime property market. After a turbulent year marked by COVID-19's lingering effects, fiscal disruptions, and political uncertainty, 2026 is shaping up to be a period of greater stability and welcome predictability.

United Kingdom Sotheby’s International Realty is off to a flying start in 2026, having agreed sales on £430 million worth of stock – a strong showing that reflects renewed vitality across the UK’s prime property market. After a turbulent year marked by COVID-19's lingering effects, fiscal disruptions, and political uncertainty, 2026 is shaping up to be a period of greater stability and welcome predictability.

Masterpieces of Asian Art at Sotheby's Hong Kong

Record White-Glove Sale: Masterpieces of Asian Art at Sotheby's Hong Kong

Sotheby’s Hong Kong achieved a white-glove sale as the Okada Museum’s Asian art masterpieces sold for HK$688M, driven by fierce global bidding and top-tier provenance.

On a November evening in Hong Kong, 125 works of art went under the hammer at Sotheby's. By the time the final gavel fell, every single piece had sold, bringing in HK$688 million (£66.9 million). The result affirmed strong demand for museum-grade Asian art.

Autumn Budget 2025: Outcomes for London’s Prime and Super-Prime Property Market

Autumn Budget 2025 reveals measured outcomes for London’s prime property market, easing fears of severe tax impacts on high-value assets.

It was a crisp winter afternoon on Wednesday, 26th November, when Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves delivered the highly anticipated 2025 Autumn Budget — a fiscal statement designed to address a mounting deficit and the persistent cost of living crisis.&nbsp;

It was a crisp winter afternoon on Wednesday, 26th November, when Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves delivered the highly anticipated 2025 Autumn Budget — a fiscal statement designed to address a mounting deficit and the persistent cost of living crisis.

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Wimbledon is a highly sought-after area in southwest London, primarily celebrated as the global stage for the world’s most prestigious tennis championship. Beyond its inescapable tennis renown, the neighbourhood is admired for its lush verdure, reputed schools, and prime real estate offerings.



Discover Bayswater: a vibrant London area with rich history, diverse dining, top schools, green spaces, and exciting new developments. Explore its unique charm and luxury living.

Bayswater

Notting Hill is a community characterised by boutiques, antiques and pastel-toned façades. The neighbourhood has a storied history, which is reflected by the timeless elegance of its leafy streets and stucco-fronted properties.



Discover Surrey's charm: vibrant communities, historic landmarks, excellent schools, top dining spots, and stunning properties just an hour from London.

Primrose Hill is an upmarket area in North London that has a wonderful blend of impressive architecture, boutique shops, fantastic cafes and restaurants, and a village-like atmosphere. Arguably the area’s most notable feature is the park which is found at its heart.



Primrose Hill

Fitzrovia is one of prime central London’s most impressive districts with a rich history, and glorious architecture, conveniently located close to the West End and the beating cultural heart of the city. The streets are peppered with restaurants, cafes, businesses and bars, and some of London’s finest Georgian architecture.



Fitzrovia

Explore Regent's Park: a blend of royal history, luxury homes, top dining, and iconic landmarks like London Zoo and Primrose Hill. London's prestigious green space

Regent's Park

St James’s, named after its eponymous royal palace, is a fascinating area in the heart of London. Known as ‘clubland’ to Londoners, due to its abundance of members clubs, the area is characterised by prestigious landmarks, world-class restaurants, and stunning architecture.



St James's

Ascot, best known for its famous racecourse, sits in a particularly green stretch of Berkshire where woodland, heathland, and royal parkland shape the landscape.

Ascot

Explore Oxford: a city blending medieval charm with modern living. Home to the University of Oxford, rich history, vibrant culture, and diverse property options.

Oxford

The Cotswolds: Experience quintessential rural England with honey-hued houses, rolling hills, charming villages, fine dining, cultural landmarks, and luxury country living.

Lying in the leafy expanse of North London, commonly referred to as Hampstead Village, Hampstead stretches northward to Hampstead Garden Suburbs, sharing borders with St. John’s Wood to the south and neighbouring Highgate to the east.


Hampstead

Situated by the River Thames and enveloped by green open spaces, Putney is one of southwest London’s most sought-after neighbourhoods.



Marylebone is one of London’s prettiest and oldest areas – its evolution spans from royal deer parks and country estates to grand redbrick buildings. Today, its beautiful architecture is coupled with its trendy high street known for its heritage brands, quirky shops, and electric atmosphere.

Set along River Wey in the Surrey countryside, Weybridge is among the Home Counties' most prestigious addresses.



Weybridge

Soho, London: A vibrant district rich in history and charm, known for its dining, nightlife, and thriving real estate market. Discover luxury living in the heart of the city.

Soho

South Kensington: Coveted London neighborhood offering luxury homes, top schools, world-class shopping, dining, and cultural landmarks like the V&A and Natural History Museum.

South Kensington

For those looking to step back from the pace of London without losing touch with it entirely, Esher remains one of Surrey’s most enduring choices.



Esher

Kingston

Holland Park represents an exquisite blend of natural beauty, historic charm, and modern convenience, renowned for its tranquillity, with ample opportunities to relax, shop, and dine without venturing too far from home.



Chiswick

Nestled along the banks of the River Thames in South West London, you will find the idyllic Barnes. The area is much loved by families and offers a wonderful blend of convenience thanks to its proximity to central London, as well as a village-like feel.



Barnes

Residing on the Southern banks of the River Thames, Wandsworth has long been an area of London favoured by families, young professionals, and couples, thanks to its lively streets anchored by hip brunch spots, cafes, eclectic indie boutiques, and large Victorian houses as well as being mere moments from the Thames.



Tucked away between the refined sophistication of Hampstead and the dynamic Camden, Belsize Park is a lovely corner of North London. Known for its architectural patchwork of styles, Belsize Park has a collection of some of London’s finest buildings.



Belsize Park

Kensington is one part of the Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea, a highly sought-after area in Prime Central London for super prime residences. The district offers a vibrant atmosphere defined by beautiful architecture, world-class shopping, famous museums, stunning galleries and two Royal Parks.

Not just one of the Capital’s smiliest areas – Richmond was named London's happiest borough and the second nationally – but arguably one of its prettiest, Richmond’s riverbank position is paired with a village-like charm that casts a spell on anyone who visits.



Explore Covent Garden: London's cultural epicentre with historic landmarks, luxury living, world-class dining, and vibrant arts scene, making it a sought-after residential area.

Explore Berkshire: Royal castles, Michelin-starred dining, thrilling horse racing, and serene gardens. Discover history, flavor, and adventure in this quintessential home county.

Berkshire

Pimlico, a charming neighbourhood in the heart of the City of Westminster, is one of London’s best-kept secrets. Known for its pretty garden squares, elegant architecture, and a strong sense of community, Pimlico's is a small but perfectly formed area that was designed by the master builder Thomas Cubitt.





Pimlico

Cobham sits on the banks of the River Mole in Surrey, around 20 miles south-west of London.



Cobham

Walton-on-Thames sits along a broad stretch of the River Thames in Elmbridge, positioned between Weybridge, Esher and Hampton Court.



Walton-on-Thames

Ealing sits to the west of central London and has long been one of those places people move to and stay.

Ealing

To own a luxury property in Belgravia is to find yourself amongst the most elite members
of society, surrounded by neighbours who recognise the immense value of this prestigious
residential area.

Wentworth's reputation as one of Europe's most prestigious residential estates is well over a hundred years in the making.

Wentworth

Fulham is a pocket of southwest London where the Thames glides past Victorian townhouses and tree-lined avenues, and where a morning coffee by the river tastes better.



Hammersmith

Westminster, one of the most iconic areas of London, is known for being the epicentre of the UK’s political power since the first official Parliament of England convened here in 1295.



Westminster

With their period detailing and generous sizes, the luxury homes of St John’s Wood are a huge draw for discerning families from all over the world who want to live in the height of luxury surrounded by excellent schools, quaint cafes and attractions like Abby Road, Lord’s Cricket Ground and Regent’s Park.

St John's Wood

Defined by its artistic legacy, excellent shopping and diverse range of luxury properties,
Chelsea is the ideal destination for those looking for a deluxe lifestyle in Prime Central London.

Part of the Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames, Coombe sits between Wimbledon, Kingston, Richmond Park and New Malden.

Coombe

With its historic attractions and sophisticated tree-lined streets, Knightsbridge continues to be one of the most sought-after areas of Prime Central London for luxury real estate, from its listed buildings to its modern serviced residences.

Knightsbridge

Hyde Park sits at the centre of one of London’s most established and desirable residential areas, where grand stucco terraces, garden squares and mews houses surround one of the capital’s best-known green spaces.


Hyde Park

Oxshott is a charming village nestled in the heart of Elmbridge, sitting quietly between the bustling towns of Esher and Leatherhead.



Oxshott

Whether you seek a peaceful retreat or a dynamic urban lifestyle, Buckinghamshire will exceed your expectations. Here’s our guide to exploring all that this enchanting county has to offer.

Buckinghamshire

Hidden in the heart of central London, Connaught Village is just a stone’s throw from the bustling streets of Oxford Street and the serene expanses of Hyde Park. This elegant neighbourhood captures the essence of what makes London’s village-like pockets so special.



Connaught Village

An elite melting pot of fine dining restaurants, dazzling theatres, designer boutiques, five-
star hotels and private member clubs, Mayfair is a haven for wealthy individuals who like to
prioritise the finer things in life.

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