How to Find the Perfect UK Investment Property from Overseas

Expat Property Investments Ltd
Mar 12
4 min read

Row of modern red brick houses with black roofs and dormer windows, lined by lush green bushes and trees under a clear blue sky.

If you’re a non-UK resident looking to invest in UK property, you probably already know the challenges that come with remote property investing such as time zone differences, lack of local knowledge, and the fact that you can’t just pop over to a viewing after work.

That’s where property sourcing services come in. Instead of spending hours trawling through Rightmove, trying to book viewings from Spain, Dubai or Singapore, and negotiating with estate agents who barely return your calls, a professional property sourcer, like ourselves, does all the heavy lifting for you.

In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about finding the perfect UK investment property from overseas;.

If you'd prefer to save time reading and instead chat to us about how a property sourcer can help you, schedule a free discovery call with our team here.

What is a Property Sourcer?

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Property sourcing is a fully hands-off investment solution where a knowledgeable professional finds, negotiates, and secures below-market-value (BMV) and/or high-yield properties for you.

A property sourcer typically:

Finds off-market or discounted properties
Negotiates the best price and terms on your behalf
Conducts due diligence on the property and area
Assists with the purchase process, including connecting you with solicitors, expat mortgage brokers, and property managers

For British expats or non-UK nationals who aren’t physically in the UK, this service is invaluable. It ensures you secure the best deals without the hassle of doing it all remotely.

Why Should Expats & Non-UK Residents Use Property Sourcing Services?

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Expats and other non-UK residents use property sourcing services for 3 main reasons:

1. You Can’t Be in the UK to View Properties

If you’re living in the UAE, Qatar, Switzerland, Singapore, Australia or Hong Kong, getting on a flight every time a new deal comes up isn’t exactly practical (or cheap). A property sourcer acts as your eyes and ears on the ground.

2. Access to Off-Market & Below-Market-Value Deals

Property sourcers have direct relationships with agents who have clients looking to sell quickly, giving you access to deals the general public never sees.

3. We Handle the Entire Process for You

From negotiating prices to overseeing the legal process and even arranging property management, a good property sourcer, including us, ensures a seamless, hands-off experience.

What Makes a Good Investment Property for British Expats?

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When investing in UK property as an expat, you want a profitable, low-maintenance asset. But what makes a great buy-to-let investment?

Here’s what to look for when a sourcer brings you a 'deal':

1. Strong Rental Demand

The goal is passive income, so your property needs consistent tenant demand.

Look at:

Major cities with strong economies (Manchester, Birmingham, Liverpool)
University towns with student demand
Regeneration areas with rising employment opportunities

2. High Rental Yields

A good rental yield is key to positive cash flow. Here’s a rough guide:

London: 3% to 5% (higher property prices, lower yields)
Manchester, Liverpool, Birmingham: 6% to 8% (great balance of affordability & rental demand)
Northern hotspots (Newcastle, Leeds, Stoke-on-Trent, Sheffield, Nottingham): 7% to 10% (cheaper properties, higher yields)

3. Capital Growth Potential

Look for areas undergoing regeneration such as new transport links, infrastructure projects, and business hubs tend to drive long-term capital appreciation.

4. Minimal Maintenance & Hassle

If you’re managing a UK property from abroad, the last thing you need is a constant stream of maintenance issues.

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How to Choose the Right Property Sourcing Company

Not all property sourcers are good at their job unfortunately, so please do your due diligence before working with one. Here’s what to check:

1. Experience with British Expat Clients

A good property sourcing company should understand the specific needs of expat investors, from expat mortgage complexities to tax-efficient ownership structures. We specialise in British expats and non-UK resident cases.

2. Proven Track Record

Ask for case studies, client testimonials, and examples of past deals. If they can’t provide these, it’s a red flag. You can see some of our case studies here.

3. Transparent Fees

Avoid anyone with hidden costs or vague pricing structures. A reputable sourcing company should be upfront about their fees, typically charging a fixed sourcing fee of £4,999 per deal. You can see all of our services and prices here.

The Buying Process: How Property Sourcing Works for British Expats & Non-UK Residents

Once you’ve chosen a property sourcing company, here’s how the process typically works:

1) Initial Consultation: Discuss your investment goals, budget, and preferred locations.

2) Deal Sourcing: The sourcing team finds suitable properties based on your criteria.

3) Due Diligence: Full property and market analysis to ensure a sound investment.

4) Offer & Negotiation: Your sourcer negotiates the best price.

5) Mortgage & Financing: If needed, they’ll connect you with an expat mortgage broker.

6) Legal Process: Solicitors handle conveyancing while you sit back.

7) Property Management Setup: A letting agent is arranged to manage tenants.

From start to finish, the process can take 3 to 6 months, depending on mortgage approvals and legal timelines.

Red-brick townhouses with triangular roofs under a blue sky. Front doors have small awnings. Neat landscaping borders the pavement.

So, is Property Sourcing Worth It for British Expats?

In our opinion, yes. If you’re based overseas and looking to invest in UK property without the hassle, using a professional property sourcer will save you time, money & stress.

Instead of navigating UK property from thousands of miles away, you get:

Access to exclusive, off-market deals
A fully managed, hands-off investment process
Local expertise and negotiation power
A stress-free way to build a profitable property portfolio

The key is choosing a trusted sourcing company with experience working with British expats & non-UK residents.

How We Can Help You Invest in UK Property as an Expat

At Expat Property Investments, we specialise in helping British expats and non-UK residents find and secure high-yield UK investment properties without the usual hassle.

Whether you need off-market deals, expat mortgage solutions, or full property management, we offer a hands-off, end-to-end service to make your UK property investment simple and profitable.