Buying a Pied-à-Terre in London | Expert Advice for Buyers
Whether your main residence is elsewhere in the UK or overseas, buying a pied-à-terre in London, as a base in the capital for leisure or as a more convenient place to stay whilst working in the capital, is a process that can require expert guidance.
It is often the case that Garrington’s clients looking for a second home in London are either not local and unable to part with a considerable amount of time searching for the ideal property or they are unfamiliar with the London property market.
In this article, we’ll provide some advice and tips to help you navigate the process and make well-informed decisions.
What is a Pied-à-Terre?
A pied-à-terre is a French term that translates to “foot on the ground.” It refers to a small, secondary residence that is used as a part-time or occasional home. In London, they are typically a flat or apartment purchased as a second home, usually for business trips or weekend visits.
Purchasing a pied-à-terre in London can be a smart investment for those who frequently travel to the city, offering a more comfortable and convenient alternative to hotels.
When looking for a pied-à-terre in London, it is important to carefully consider the costs and benefits as well as factors such as location, size, and amenities.
Benefits of owning a Pied-à-Terre
Owning a pied-à-terre in London offers numerous benefits. Here are some of the key advantages Garrington’s private clients often highlight when searching for a second home in the capital:
- Lifestyle: A pied-à-terre provides a luxurious lifestyle in the heart of one of the world’s most vibrant cities. It’s perfect for those who want to enjoy the best of London without the hassle of a permanent residence.
- Location: With convenience at the forefront of most purchases, London second homes are often located in the most desirable parts of central London, providing easy access to the city’s best restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues.
- Restaurants: London is home to some of the world’s best restaurants, and living in a pied-à-terre puts you in the heart of the action. Whether you’re looking for fine dining or a casual meal, you’ll be spoilt for choice.
- Shops: London is a shopper’s paradise, and living in a pied-à-terre means you’ll be just a short walk away from some of the city’s best shops and boutiques.
- Gyms: Many newly built properties offer access to on-site gyms and fitness facilities, providing a convenient way to maintain fitness without having to step out of the building.
- 24-hour Concierge: Apartments within portered buildings often make excellent second homes and will usually have a 24-hour Concierge ensuring that you always have someone on hand to help with any needs or requests and importantly they’ll be at the building when you are at your main residence should there be any postal deliveries in your absense or need for maintenance related access for example.
What type of property makes a good pied-à-terre
A pied-à-terre is typically a small, secondary residence that is used occasionally and requires minimal upkeep – a “lock up and leave”. Therefore, the type of property that makes a good pied-à-terre is one that is compact, low maintenance, and located in a prime location.
Where are the best places to own a pied-à-terre in London
Some of the best places to own a pied-à-terre in London include:
Covent Garden
This historic district in the heart of London is perfect for a mid-week pied-à-terre. The West End is on the doorstep and The City of London is just a stone’s throw away.
Marylebone
Ideal for those wanting to experience the best of London, residents can enjoy the village-like feel of Marylebone, with its independent shops, cafés, delis, and restaurants.
Bayswater
This prime neighbourhood is perfect pied-à-terre territory, moments from Hyde Park, a short distance from most of the city’s top attractions and shopping is on the doorstep with Oxford Street nearby.
Earl’s Court
Incredibly well connected, Earl’s Court is less than 30 minutes from Heathrow Airport, easily connected to the M4 motorway and yet is just 8 minutes taxi from Harrods and Hyde Park.
Knightsbridge
Second homes in one of the most exclusive parts of Prime Central London are highly sought after. Residents enjoy being exceptionally well positioned yet many enjoy being positioned on or near to garden squares, or their outlook might be of majestic architecture.
St John’s Wood
Perhaps not the most obvious choice for a second home but with several stunning newer developments in the area, St John’s Wood could be ideal for some buyers. Located at the tip of Regent’s Park, by car or public transport residents can reach central London and the West End swiftly whilst having respite in a less city-centre setting when they retire to their pied-à-terre.
Buying a property in London
If you’re considering buying a pied-à-terre in London and feel you would benefit from input and assistance from a professional buying agent a member of the Garrington team would be delighted to assist with a wealth of knowledge and years of experience behind us.
