Large numbers of expats who intended to retire abroad are planning to return to the UK, a trend that is set to increase as the effects of Brexit filter through
The Home Counties is a key location for returning British property purchasers and at Imperial Row in Ascot, Berkshire Spitfire Bespoke Homes is receiving significant levels of interest from expat house-hunters.
A third of Brits who have moved abroad after retirement are planning to return to the UK, according to a study by NatWest, with a further 23% considering a return at some point. Now the results of the EU referendum are creating uncertainty for those living abroad, providing the catalyst for their return home. With the value of sterling down significantly against the dollar and the euro, expats will be able to use the exchange rate to their advantage as they re-enter the British property market.
At the prime end of the market, Imperial Row is finding favour among expat buyers looking for a property with the highest levels of specification and security, in a convenient and sought after location. Just a few minutes walk from Ascot High Street, Imperial Row offers just four individually gated, magnificent detached residences, designed and carefully crafted by Spitfire Bespoke Homes. Set against a mature landscaped backdrop, the properties combine the best in state-of-the-art modern features and timeless design for the ultimate luxurious lifestyle.
Richard Page, Sales & Marketing Director from Spitfire Bespoke Homes comments: “It is hard to say yet whether Brexit will trigger an expat exodus but we have certainly received a growing number of enquiries from Britons who are in the process of relocating back to the UK. The boost they will receive because of the exchange rates when they are converting back to pounds will undoubtedly make British property seem better value. There are many reasons that buyers choose to relocate and personal reasons such as being close to family or being within easy reach of a good school usually come first, but it seems that the sentiment among many buyers is that it is now more of a priority to maintain a base in the UK. The Home Counties appeals as it is somewhere they can get more for their money and a better quality of life than in central London, while still being in easy reach of the city.”
The show home at Imperial Row, St James is a prime exemplar of contemporary elegance and sophistication with its ultra-high standard of specification, immaculate interior design, spacious living spaces and attractively landscaped gardens. This impressive and elegantly appointed five-bedroom house offers over 4,800 sq ft of living space set over three floors, with five bedrooms and a top floor leisure room, as well as a detached double garage. The lofty 3m ceilings to the ground floor create a feeling of opulence, reinforced by the sumptuous interior design that plays on sophisticated neutrals and rich textures.
Architecture is classically inspired incorporating well-proportioned and symmetrical exteriors, and a palette of materials that includes traditional red brick and tiled roofing. St James has a striking double-fronted neo-classical façade with stone columns and portico entrance striking an instant sense of grandeur.
The specification throughout is outstanding, executed with peerless attention to detail. The vast kitchen, family room and breakfast area is the hub of the home. The individually designed kitchen by Lida Cucina features a curved island with quartz worktop and full width bi-fold doors open to a sun-filled terrace. A host of renowned brands provide the finishing touches with Miele and Villeroy & Boch being well represented. An array of state-of-the-art controls makes this an intelligent house. At ground level, the flooring is predominantly polished limestone and in the drawing room a limestone fireplace provides a grand focal point. Upstairs the sumptuous master suite features a separate fitted dressing area and spacious balcony.
Outside the gardens are attractively designed and landscaped by a Chelsea medal winning designer and electric gates ensure privacy. The properties achieve sustainability as well as luxury, with efficient underfloor heating, superior insulation, heat recovery systems and energy and water saving fixtures and fittings incorporated.
Located in a peaceful tree-lined street just off the London Road, Imperial Row is within easy walking distance of Ascot’s main high street with its mix of shops, cafes and restaurants. Surrounded by leafy parkland and rolling countryside, Ascot is within easy commuter reach of central London. The station is less than a mile from Imperial Row, while for international travel, Heathrow airport is only 11 miles away by road. Local education options are excellent, including Papplewick School, The Marist Preparatory and Senior School, St George’s, St Mary’s School, Heathfield School, Lambrook and Charters School. Eton College is also only nine miles away. Some of the best golf courses in the UK are also close by.
Kensington at Imperial Row is on the market for £2,950,000. For further information and to register interest, please contact Strutt & Parker or Savills.