# Buying London property from overseas

Canonical source: https://rivermarkproperty.com/guides/buying-london-property-from-overseas/

An overseas buyer can search for a London home without being in the UK throughout the purchase. Agree who will make decisions, how property information will be checked and when each adviser needs documents.

[Discuss buying a home](https://rivermarkproperty.com/contact/#role=private-client&topic=acquire&briefTitle=Buying%20a%20home)

## Can an overseas buyer purchase a home?

A 2017 House of Commons Library briefing states that there are no general restrictions on foreign ownership of UK residential property. Individual transactions can still involve identity checks, tax, lender conditions or other restrictions. A purchase does not itself give the buyer permission to live in the UK.

A solicitor can check the transaction and your ownership arrangements; an immigration adviser can advise separately on permission to enter or stay. Rules for buying and property tax differ across the UK; this guide focuses on London and England.

Further reading: [House of Commons Library: foreign ownership (2017)](https://commonslibrary.parliament.uk/research-briefings/cbp-7723/) · [GOV.UK: buying a home](https://www.gov.uk/buying-a-home)

## Agree the search before looking

Decide who will live in the home, the preferred areas, essential journeys, budget and whether the purchase depends on finance. Distinguish a property for a student from a home for the whole family or a property intended to be let later.

Rivermark can agree a search and fees with you, review advertised options, arrange viewings and help compare the properties you select. Ask what remote viewing, reporting and decision-making will be included in the appointment.

If the buyer cannot attend, agree whether a representative may view, what photos or video are permitted and how questions and decisions will be recorded. A remote viewing can help narrow options, but it does not replace a survey or legal inspection of documents.

## Prepare documents and funds early

Ask your conveyancer and any lender what identity, address and source-of-funds evidence they require. Allow time to document gifts, a sale of assets and transfers between accounts. Do not send passports or bank statements through an ordinary website enquiry.

Exchange rates, transfer charges and the timing of funds can change the amount available in sterling. Confirm the payment route independently with your solicitor using trusted contact details before transferring money.

Further reading: [GOV.UK: how to buy a home](https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/how-to-buy-a-home/how-to-buy) · [SRA: source of funds and wealth](https://www.sra.org.uk/sra/research-publications/thematic-review-source-funds-wealth-compliance/)

## Arrange the purchase from a distance

Ask the conveyancer how identity will be verified, how documents will be signed and whether any original or certified documents must be sent. If an attorney will sign for the buyer, obtain legal advice on the authority and registration requirements before relying on it.

Agree a reliable contact point and time zone for decisions. Before making a binding commitment, confirm with your solicitor that finance, funds, property checks and the intended completion arrangements are in place. Do not assume a remote search makes the seller’s timetable flexible.

Further reading: [HM Land Registry: evidence of identity](https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/evidence-of-identity-conveyancers/practice-guide-67-evidence-of-identity-conveyancers)

## Budget for the transaction and ownership

Alongside the price, allow for legal work, surveys, moving, insurance, service charges and possible works. Your solicitor or tax adviser should calculate the actual Stamp Duty Land Tax position, including any non-UK resident surcharge or higher rates that apply.

An accepted offer is not the same as a completed purchase. In a usual private-treaty sale in England and Wales, the contract becomes binding at exchange. Auctions and other arrangements can bind earlier; ask your solicitor when your commitment arises.

Further reading: [HMRC: non-UK resident SDLT](https://www.gov.uk/guidance/rates-of-stamp-duty-land-tax-for-non-uk-residents) · [GOV.UK: conveyancing](https://www.gov.uk/buying-a-home/transferring-ownership) · [Birmingham City Council: sale methods and auctions](https://property.birmingham.gov.uk/protocols-charters/sale-guide/)

Official guidance checked 5 November 2026. Confirm the current position and how it applies to your circumstances with the relevant adviser.

- [Proof of funds when buying a home](https://rivermarkproperty.com/guides/proof-of-funds-buying-a-home/)
- [Stamp duty for overseas buyers of London homes](https://rivermarkproperty.com/guides/stamp-duty-overseas-buyers/)
- [UK mortgages for overseas buyers](https://rivermarkproperty.com/guides/uk-mortgages-overseas-buyers/)
- [London buying service](https://rivermarkproperty.com/residential/buying/)

## Looking for a home in London?

Tell us the locations, property and timing you have in mind.

- [Discuss buying a home](https://rivermarkproperty.com/contact/#role=private-client&topic=acquire&briefTitle=Buying%20a%20home)
- [Request a call](https://rivermarkproperty.com/request-a-call/)