By Laura Parnaby.
Black Brick: Americans Are Buying UK Property at a 40% Discount — and the Cotswolds Is Their Top Destination
American buyers have become one of the most significant forces in the UK property market, and the Cotswolds has emerged as their destination of choice — with Black Brick founder Camilla Dell providing expert insight into this growing trend for the Daily Mail.
US buyers now represent 25% of Black Brick’s client base, typically bringing budgets of $1 million to $10 million for a second home. Dell explained that the surge in American interest began five to six years ago, accelerated by a favourable exchange rate following Brexit, and has continued to build since. Crucially, she noted that prime London property has barely moved in value since 2014 — and when combined with relatively stronger US wages and dollar strength, Americans are effectively purchasing UK property at close to a 40% discount compared with a decade ago.
“Americans are a significant buying force for UK property,” Dell told the Daily Mail. “When Americans think of the quintessential British countryside, the Cotswolds comes to mind.” She highlighted the ‘golden triangle’ of Stow-on-the-Wold, Chipping Norton and Burford as the most sought-after villages for US buyers seeking an accessible country retreat within 90 minutes of London.
Dell identified a range of motivations drawing Americans to the UK. Currency advantage and value relative to 2014 prices are central, but political factors have also played an increasing role, with some buyers keen to establish a foothold outside the US amid domestic uncertainty. The abolition of non-dom tax status has also, counterintuitively, made the UK more straightforward for Americans — who, as US citizens, are taxed on worldwide income regardless of where they live, meaning the non-dom regime was never available to them in the first place.
The Cotswolds’ enduring appeal lies in its protected status as the UK’s largest Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, its thriving village communities, growing number of private members’ clubs, and its reputation as a discreet retreat for high-profile individuals — all within easy reach of London and with strong transatlantic connections.
As featured in the Daily Mail
Read the piece here.