Key facts
- England's country-house market boomed during the pandemic as buyers moved out of cities.
- Prime rural property prices are now declining.
- Factors contributing to the decline include global turmoil, the rising cost of living, and workers returning to offices.
England's country-house market experienced a significant boom during the COVID-19 pandemic as urban dwellers sought more space and a change of scenery. However, this trend has reversed, with prime rural property prices now on the decline. The downturn is attributed to a confluence of factors, including broader global economic instability, the increasing cost of living which impacts affordability, and the ongoing return of workers to their offices, reducing the demand for remote living. This shift marks a notable change from the pandemic-era surge in demand for rural properties.