Our latest Spotlight focuses on the desirability of waterfront living and why London's riverside is proving popular with a diverse range of buyers. Download here.

The top 10 cities in the world for global real estate* in terms of both where to live and invest are all located either on the banks of a major river, on the harbour front or by the ocean. The water has invariably proved a catalyst for commercial success.

London is one of these premier world cities and the strategic position of the River Thames, flowing through the heart of the capital, has seen it at the centre of London’s industrial, political and cultural history. As the commercial importance of the river has waned, it is waterfront living and leisure that have come to define the modern Thames. Inherently the waterfront offers a sense of space, light and relaxation.

A river transformed

For many areas of London, redevelopment of the waterfront has been comprehensive, with great swathes of the river transformed to offer contemporary accommodation, lifestyle services and exceptional views. Period properties have thrived as a clean and culturally vibrant riverfront has emerged.

This spotlight seeks to understand the premium that waterfront living in London commands and the extent to which waterfront properties achieves higher prices than their landlocked counterparts. It also recognises the value and potential offered by different areas of the river.

There really is something for everyone along the Thames waterfront and we have discovered that there is no one type of waterfront buyer or tenant. People have been attracted to the waterfront from all walks and stages of life.

* Based on locations where international companies want to be based, have an active and growing worldwide market in real estate and sizeable non-domestic sales and lettings markets with growing interest in them from overseas investors and occupants.

Taken from
Spotlight: Waterfront London