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What £2 Million Buys You in London Today

 

Why £2 Million Makes Sense in London Right Now

If you're thinking about buying property in London, this could be one of the most buyer-friendly moments in recent history. Prime central London prices are still around 21.7% below their 2014 peak1.  In a city that rarely offers discounts, that’s no small window of opportunity. The focus now goes beyond price, highlighting what £2 million can actually secure today, especially in areas that were once considered out of reach.

For foreign buyers, particularly from Singapore, Hong Kong, and the Middle East, the exchange rate has been working in your favour. The British pound remains relatively soft, and that FX advantage is adding extra buying power. With London’s strong rule of law, transparent property system, and rebounding rental demand, it’s no surprise global investors are stepping back in.

Where Your £2 Million Goes Further: Prime District Highlights

You’re likely familiar with names like Mayfair, Kensington, and Westminster, but what does £2 million actually buy there today? And why are these areas worth considering for foreign investors?

Bayswater has become a regeneration story that’s gaining serious attention. At the heart of it is the Whiteley London development, which is reshaping this historically overlooked pocket into a modern luxury destination. With £2 million, you can secure a brand-new two-bedroom flat within a beautifully restored façade, complete with 24-hour concierge, private cinema, and wellness amenities. It’s not just about lifestyle either. The area’s transformation is drawing strong rental interest and promising capital appreciation, making it a smart choice for overseas buyers looking to lock in long-term value.

Westminster may be known as the political centre of London, but it’s also quietly becoming a coveted residential district. Think refurbished Georgian terraces, views of Big Ben, and riverside walks—all within a stone’s throw of government buildings and cultural landmarks. A £2 million budget can land you a tastefully modernised flat in a historic building or a new-build unit in a premium complex. The area appeals to diplomatic tenants and corporate professionals, so the rental market is strong and consistent. If you’re buying property in London for foreigners, Westminster offers both charm and dependable returns.

Mayfair has always had that timeless allure. While £2 million won’t get you a grand penthouse, it can buy you a beautifully appointed one-bedroom or a compact two-bedroom flat in a quiet, portered block near Berkeley Square or South Audley Street. Mayfair offers more than just a prestigious postcode; it’s defined by its exclusive lifestyle, unmatched prestige, and limited availability. Properties here rarely lose value. For many foreign buyers, Mayfair is a trophy location, and even modest-sized flats can deliver excellent short-let potential to high-net-worth tenants or long-term residents who want proximity to luxury retail and fine dining.

Kensington continues to be a magnet for international families and long-term investors. It’s sophisticated but liveable, elegant but not over-the-top. Here, £2 million might buy you a two-bedroom apartment with a lift and access to private garden squares or a converted period home near museums and top schools. Kensington offers everything from cultural credibility to transport convenience. It’s an ideal area if you're planning for long-term family use or simply want a stable, high-quality asset in your international portfolio.

The Market Is Shifting. Are You Ready to Respond?

Property professionals and institutional investors are paying attention to current dynamics, and so should you. This investment appeal is magnified by a rental market under intense pressure. As highlighted recently in Landlord Knowledge, a classic supply and demand imbalance is fuelling strong rental growth, as the number of available properties fails to meet surging tenant demand. For those buying property in London, this creates a rare scenario: a market where both capital appreciation and yield potential align.2 

Don’t forget, you’re not just buying bricks and mortar. You’re investing in a city with unrivalled global status, world-class education, stable governance, and enduring appeal to global tenants. Prime Central London properties are more than just residences and often function as strategic long-term investments.

What to Watch: Trends That Matter for Overseas Buyers

One trend that’s especially relevant to foreign buyers is the shift toward branded developments and turnkey luxury living. From converted hotels to new-build towers with full-service amenities, the appeal of low-maintenance, high-spec properties is rising fast. Many developers now include concierge services, wellness facilities, and private dining within the building, making these properties ideal for investors who don’t live in the UK full-time.

Another important consideration is proximity to Crossrail (Elizabeth Line) stations. Properties within walking distance of these new transit hubs are seeing increased buyer activity, and the improved connectivity across London is shrinking the city for both residents and tenants.

Stamp duty for foreign buyers is still a factor, but when weighed against long-term capital growth and currency leverage, many investors see it as part of the entry cost into a world-class asset.

Your Next Step: Make £2 Million Work Harder

If you're buying property in London, £2 million today opens more doors than it would have just a few years ago. Whether you want to be in the heart of heritage-rich Mayfair, in the family-friendly sophistication of Kensington, or part of Bayswater’s new energy, the timing is on your side.

Working with local property experts who understand both the market and the needs of international buyers is crucial. They help identify undervalued opportunities, navigate regulations, and secure properties that match your goals, whether for rental income, capital growth, or long-term use.

With the right insight, £2 million can offer more than just a prestigious address and secure your place in one of the world’s most resilient property markets.


1. https://www.savills.co.uk/research_articles/229130/378858-0

2. https://landlordknowledge.co.uk/rent-rises-outpace-mortgage-payments-as-rental-supply-fails-to-meet-demand/  

 

 

 

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