While it is well known that wealthy overseas buyers favour London for property investment, those with smaller budgets see Kent as an option as it has good transport links with London.
For example, buyers are increasingly looking at towns and cities near the Channel such as the historic city of Canterbury.
Developer Bellway Homes has already sold a number of apartments in its new project situated within the historic old city walls and alongside the canal to buyers from France, Belgium, Greece, Italy, Sweden and Germany.
The contemporary one and two bedroom properties at the Old Tannery development are popular because they are at the heart of the city but still only around half an hour by road from the Channel Tunnel.
Peter Knights, sales director at Bellway, said that buyers are also keen on the fast transport links to London and the rest of the UK. There are trains to London Victoria from Canterbury East and to Charing Cross from Canterbury West stations, with both journeys taking around 90 minutes. Canterbury West station also serves London St Pancras, with an hourly service throughout the day taking just under 60 minutes.
For travel by car, the A2/M2 is close by with access to the M25 and wider motorway network. For continental commuters, the Channel ports, Channel tunnel and Ashford International Station are no more than 30 minutes away.
‘Although Canterbury boasts a fascinating history with its famous Cathedral which dates from around 1100, it has everything people expect from a modern city. All the major retailers are here and there is a fabulous range of restaurants, pubs and bars. The bustling city centre comes alive at night with entertainment to attract all age groups,’ said Knights.
‘Canterbury is an ideal location in which to study, being home to the University of Kent and Canterbury Christ Church University College. The city also has a wide variety of sports and leisure facilities catering for all interests,’ he added.
Prices for one bedroom apartments at The Old Tannery start at £179,995 and for a two bedroom apartment from £259,995.
