The end of the hybrid working era is fuelling a surge in demand for London flats, with bidding wars breaking out as employees flock back to the capital.
Property expert Nathan Khider says he has witnessed “a huge surge in interest” this year, as companies tighten office attendance rules and make commuting from the countryside unworkable.
“One of my flats valued at £800,000 received almost 30 viewings in just one day and was eventually sold in a bidding war,” he explained.
The trend marks a reversal of the pandemic exodus, when thousands of Londoners sold up to buy larger homes in commuter towns and rural areas. At the time, one or two days in the office made longer commutes manageable. But with more businesses insisting on four or five days in the office, city living is once again becoming essential.
A recent survey suggests nearly half of London workers will be back in the office five days a week by the end of 2025. Rightmove data also shows London is now the most searched-for location on its site, with fewer people considering relocations and more planning a return to city life.
Khider, who works with high-profile clients across business and entertainment, says demand is overwhelming. “We are inundated with viewings at the moment,” he said.
One of his current listings — a two-bedroom property in Crane Grove, Islington, with Georgian features, a private garden and an open-plan living space — drew 14 viewings in a single day, all resulting in offers above the asking price of £1.2 million.
“Islington is really popular with young adults,” Khider said. “It’s well connected with good transport links to the City.”
Other homes are proving just as competitive. A one-bedroom loft-style apartment on City Road, valued at £775,000, has attracted strong interest thanks to its proximity to Old Street station and quick access to central London offices.
Khider says many buyers are looking to retain larger family homes outside London while purchasing smaller flats in the city to use during the working week.
The property expert, who left school at 15 and was once homeless before building his career in real estate, believes the market will continue to strengthen as corporate Britain hardens its stance on home working.
“I am expecting this property market boom to increase while more companies require workers back in the office,” he said.
