Edinburgh Leads the Way as American Homebuyers Seek UK Properties | Real Estate

The number of inquiries from individuals in the US looking to purchase a home in Britain has reached its highest point in eight years, with Edinburgh standing out as the most sought-after destination, according to recent data. Edinburgh has surpassed all other locations, including London, in terms of interest from potential buyers. Property website Rightmove reports a 19% increase in inquiries from North Americans for UK homes since the beginning of the year, compared to the same period last year. This surge is partly attributed to the political climate under Donald Trump, with some Americans seeking refuge from his controversial policies and actions. Notably, while London has traditionally been the preferred choice for US buyers, Scotland, particularly Edinburgh, has now become the top location for inquiries. Scotland’s appeal to Americans is further emphasized by the presence of Trump’s connections to the region, including his golf resort and his ancestral ties. The data highlights a shift in preference, with other Scottish locations such as Glasgow, Highland, Argyll and Bute, and Fife also featuring prominently among the top 10 destinations. However, the popularity of traditional American havens like the Cotswolds has waned, with it absent from this year’s top 10 list. The interest from the US is not solely driven by those seeking to escape political turmoil, but also by investors looking for opportunities in the UK market. Rightmove’s property expert, Colleen Babcock, suggests that the UK’s relative stability and lower property prices compared to London make Scotland an attractive option for US buyers. Meanwhile, Glynn Gibb from John D Wood & Co notes that London remains a desirable location for many, especially those looking for a global base or a temporary retreat from the political climate in the US.

Source: https://www.theguardian.com/money/2025/may/16/edinburgh-tops-list-as-us-housebuyers-eye-a-uk-home