Why London remains the place to be for property
We talk to Knight Frank’s Yazmin Murat about how the capital is attracting buyers across the world with its state-of-the-art branded residences, village-like neighbourhoods and ‘supercity’ status
Yazmin, tell us about your role.
My primary role is to look after our clients – the developers or the funders behind high-end developments. My role involves pitching for the sales instruction of some of the most luxurious prime buildings that have planning permission to be converted into residential schemes. I work on the consultancy side, with the end goal and vision of the building in mind. I advise on sales strategy and pricing. The other part of my role is looking after prospective buyers. I introduce them to the best schemes in the market and guide them through the process of buying.
Are you feeling optimistic about the Prime Central London market?
Absolutely. London is a supercity. It attracts buyers from all over the world and it’s a long-standing wealth creation hub. Plus, the city appeals to a growing pool of millennial wealth. Entrepreneurs want to locate here, students want to study here, families want to settle here. London’s other calling cards are its ‘urban villages’. There are now 33 neighbourhoods classed as villages in central London – all with access to green space and exceptional, self-contained amenities like schools, shops and leisure facilities. It’s a place that people want to call home.
What changes are you seeing in prime residential development?
The past 18 months have been interesting. We’ve seen strong demand for branded residences that are managed by luxury hospitality groups. At Knight Frank we’re marketing The Old War Office with its Raffles Hotel and residences, The Whiteley, with residences that have access to the first Six Senses Hotel in the UK, and Mandarin Oriental Residences at Hanover Square, among others.
What are buyers asking for in terms of a lifestyle proposition?
The amenities attached to new developments just get better and better. Most super prime developments that we’re seeing come to the market have services like a concierge, luxury gym and spa. Then, there are breakout areas, cinema rooms and meeting rooms where residents can work comfortably from home. The Whiteley, for example, will have padel courts, a recording studio and all the wellbeing facilities offered by Six Senses. Then, there’s the Garrison Club in Chelsea Barracks. It has a 32,000 sq ft amenity space, including a sports arena, personal training, pools, sleep clinic, and dedicated fitness and medical teams on site.
Please contact Yazmin Murat to explore available properties in Prime Central London developments.
