Investing in London property: the key to university success?

According to the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2016-17, four London universities - Imperial College London, King’s College London, London School of Economics and University College - have made it to the top 40 of more than 900 global institutions assessed for their teaching, research, knowledge transfer and international outlook.

International students are attracted to university courses in London for several reasons. Immersion in an English-speaking environment is the best way to fast-track language skills and students also enjoy the idea of being a part of a long tradition of excellence, studying at universities that have produced famous, high-achieving alumni. They are also happy to study and enjoy the lifestyle and cultural scene in a city recently described by famous international architect Renzo Piano, designer of the iconic Shard building, as “One of the most civilised places in the world.”

However, most parents will need deep pockets if they are to cover the costs associated with their children’s overseas education. Parents can expect to pay tuition fees of between £8,000 (US$10,250) and £39,000 (US$50,016) as well as covering items of expenditure such as rent, travel, food and utility bills. London has been ranked out of 218 cities as the 8th most expensive in the world, so it’s not unusual to find that the cost of living matches or even exceeds the cost of tuition fees.

Research by Juwai Data found that 70% of Chinese buyer enquiries in the US were linked to their children’s education, and the picture is similar in the UK. The Chinese have been quick to discover that if they buy a London apartment for their son or daughter it can offset the high costs of university education. Buying a London property not only saves on rent, it also offers parents a chance to make money on their investment. After graduation, the property can either be sold, or rented out and managed by a reputable lettings agency.

If your son or daughter is ready to take up higher education, Moving City will be delighted to advise you on some great London property investments. Contact us to view our fantastic portfolio of apartments and houses, all within a short travelling distance of London’s main university campuses.