The ultrawealthy are always on the lookout for a better lifestyle and strong investment opportunities when it comes to purchasing their next property. According to recent studies, one-quarter of American ultra-high-net individuals, those worth $30 million or more, have plans to buy a residential property this year. These individuals already own an average of four homes, with a quarter of their residential portfolio located outside their home country.
When considering their next big real estate purchase, the ultrawealthy prioritize “lifestyle” and “investment” opportunities above all else. Following closely behind are considerations such as taxes and safety. Despite facing similar challenges as the broader real estate market, such as low supply, slow sales, and rising prices, the ultra-high-end luxury market has seen better performance in recent years.
In the U.S., the luxury real estate market has seen fluctuations, with 34 sales over $50 million occurring last year. While this was a decrease from the previous year, it still represented a significant increase from pre-pandemic levels. Real estate experts suggest that stabilizing interest rates and a potential decrease in the future could lead to a growth in luxury supply, ultimately resulting in more sales.
The Douglas Elliman and Knight Frank Wealth Report predicts that Miami will be the best-performing luxury market in the U.S. in terms of price growth, with an expected increase of 4% this year. New York and Los Angeles follow closely behind with projected price growth of 2% and 1%, respectively. Globally, Auckland, New Zealand, is expected to lead the luxury real estate market with a projected price growth of 10% in 2024.
According to the report, Manila, Philippines, saw the highest growth in luxury real estate prices last year at 26%, driven in part by investors fleeing Hong Kong and China. Dubai, the Bahamas, and the Algarve region in Portugal also showed strong performance with price growth of 16%, 15%, and 12%, respectively. On the other hand, New York experienced a 2% decline in prices, while San Francisco remained relatively flat with a 0.5% increase.
Oxford, in the U.K., saw the biggest decline among prime markets, with prices dropping by 8%. Despite these fluctuations, ultrawealthy American buyers are increasingly looking beyond domestic markets and venturing overseas. U.S. buyers are now among the leading foreign purchasers of ultraprime properties in London and are showing increased interest in European markets such as Italy, France, and Portugal.
Even with their vast wealth, ultrawealthy individuals are facing challenges when it comes to purchasing properties. In cities like Aspen and Hong Kong, $1 million only buys a limited amount of space, with 215 and 237 square feet respectively. This makes cities like New York, with 367 square feet for the same amount, appear more affordable in comparison.
The trend of ultrawealthy individuals investing in luxury real estate is driven by a desire for lifestyle enhancements and sound investment opportunities. While market conditions continue to evolve, these individuals remain active in both domestic and international real estate markets, shaping the landscape for luxury properties worldwide.
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