February: A Market in Motion?
Dear friends,
The second half of 2025 was one of the most challenging periods in London property since I started in the industry 20 years ago.
The macroeconomic and political climate had put the brakes on,
2026 has started with a brighter landscape of clarity and a feeling of buyers and sellers being ready to act.
February has brought real momentum.
I have two full property tours scheduled across the next two days, and interestingly, two viewings were cancelled this week because the properties had gone under offer…
Both were sub-£2m. That part of the market feels notably more active.
The headlines may suggest hesitation, but on the ground there is movement. Serious buyers are acting.
In a financial world which appears increasingly volatile, London property may again feel like a haven of safety and security.
Even if stellar returns are unlikely in the short term, a collapse is even more unlikely.
If you want to take a look behind the scenes, I recently shared an afternoon in my life on Instagram.
I am representing a range of clients across an equally broad range of searches at the moment.
• A pied-à-terre in Marylebone for a Lebanese-American client
• A family house in Kensal Rise for an Italian buyer
• A house or lateral flat in Notting Hill for a European couple
• A £6–8m flat in Knightsbridge or Belgravia for a UAE client
• A £10–15m house in Knightsbridge for a British family
These are end-users rather than investors, and all are looking to transact this year.
If you are searching for something discreet, opportunistic or pre-market, I’m always happy to offer guidance.
Spotlight On: The Whiteley
With more than three-quarters of apartments now sold, The Whiteley in Bayswater continues to gather momentum.
Originally conceived in the mid-19th century as Britain’s first department store, the Grade II listed landmark is being reimagined as a mixed-use destination including private residences, the UK’s first Six Senses hotel, and a curated mix of restaurants and retail.
The latest release in their ‘Designer Collection’ is an £8.95m duplex with six-metre ceiling heights and dramatic leaded arch windows that flood the space in light.
The building’s heritage proportions lend a sense of volume that is very rare in new developments.
Situated moments from Hyde Park and at the heart of a wider £3bn regeneration of Queensway, The Whiteley offers both a premium lifestyle and the opportunity to invest in an undervalued location.
I am familiar with the development and can advise on remaining opportunities, both publicly available and otherwise.
“The Whiteley is truly epic in scale and provides lifestyle opportunities and experiences that do not currently exist in London.”
— Marcus Meijer of MARK Capital Management
Many of my clients come through introductions from previous clients and trusted advisors.
If you have friends or clients considering a purchase in London this year, feel free to connect us.
I take on a select number of clients each year, so an early conversation is paramount.
Warm regards,
Karim
