Moving from America to England: A Guide to Oxfordshire and the Cotswolds
Moving from America to England? Explore why Oxfordshire and the Cotswolds are top choices for US buyers and what to know before purchasing property.
The UK is comprised of four nations, each with its own distinct legal system and processes for buying property. Here, we are discussing the process in England.
For many Americans looking for a home in England, Oxfordshire and the Cotswolds are popular choices. These areas offer historic towns and villages, beautiful countryside, and good transport links via road and rail.
If you are considering moving from America to England, whether you want a cottage in a quiet village or a house in a bustling town, buying a home in the Cotswolds or Oxfordshire can be a good investment. Here’s what you need to know.
Why buy in Oxfordshire and the Cotswolds?
Oxfordshire is a county with the City of Oxford at its heart. It offers a mix of history, culture, modern amenities, and strong transport links to London.
The Cotswolds, designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, is known for its honey-coloured stone cottages, rolling hills, and access to a more outdoor lifestyle.
These areas are sought-after due to their attractive surroundings, good schools, and stable property values. They are ideal for permanent homes, second homes, or investments.
Understanding the UK property market as a US Buyer
The UK property market is different from that in the US, so for those moving from America to England, here is some helpful guidance to help you navigate the process in the UK.
Properties are sold through estate agents, who act solely for the seller. There is no Multiple Listing Service; each estate agency only manages their own listings, so it is necessary to contact all estate agents in the area you’re searching in – and there can be many.
Buyers have historically been expected to carry out the property search and negotiations themselves, but this gives the seller, who has an estate agent representing them, a distinct advantage.
For serious homebuyers, instructing a buying agent is becoming a necessity. A buying agent acts solely for the buyer, will have access to all listings, carry out negotiations, and oversee the buying process until the purchase is completed.
Key differences to be aware of
- Freehold vs. Leasehold – Freehold means you own the property and land it sits on. Leasehold means you own the home for a set period (lease) but not the land, and there are usually annual service charges for the maintenance of the building.
- Financing Options – UK banks may offer mortgages to international buyers, but requirements differ. Proof of funds and financial history are key factors.
- Estate Agents and Property Listings – Estate agents in the UK only represent the seller, whereas in the US buyers often have dedicated agents. This means buyers in the UK either need to conduct their property search themselves or work with a buying agent.
- Offer Process – In England, offers are usually made verbally through an estate (selling) agent. Unlike in the US, there is no binding contract until contracts are exchanged, which can leave room for “gazumping” (where another buyer offers more, and the seller accepts).
- Solicitors – A solicitor (lawyer) handles the legal process of buying and selling a property. If a mortgage is being utilised your solicitor will also represent the lender.
- Home Inspections – In the US, home inspections are standard practice and are required before closing. In England, surveys are optional but highly recommended, particularly for older properties.
- Closing Process – In England, once an offer is accepted, the legal process can take weeks or months before contracts are exchanged and the deal is legally binding. A date is then agreed to complete the purchase, which is when ownership legally transfers over. US property transactions usually move faster with more immediate commitments.
- Stamp Duty – On completion of the purchase, buyers must pay Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT), which varies based on the price paid. International buyers will usually have to pay an additional surcharge.
Terminology
Some descriptions in listings may be unfamiliar or confusing to buyers moving from America to England, for instance:
In the UK, the first storey of a building is the ground floor, the second storey is the first floor, etc. Regarding apartments, in the UK, these are called flats, but in recent years, the tendency is to call larger or more expensive flats, apartments.
The term for a row house in the UK is a terraced house, and a duplex in the US is a semi-detached house in the UK – in fact, a duplex in the UK means an apartment or flat consisting of two floors.
An elevator is called a lift in the UK and, even if a building has three or four storeys, it cannot be assumed that there is one, especially in older buildings.
A yard is called a garden in the UK, whatever its size, and, as a final note, air conditioning is extremely rare in UK homes.
Best areas to buy in Oxfordshire and the Cotswolds
If you are considering moving from America to England, here are some prime locations that are well worth adding to your property search.
Oxford – A beautiful and historic city, with a diverse and multicultural community, and home to the highly esteemed Oxford University. It offers many amenities, excellent schools, and many parks and green spaces.
Woodstock – This characterful town is home to Blenheim Palace, the birthplace of Winston Churchill. Woodstock offers a range of independent shops, a good social lifestyle, and a strong sense of community.
Burford – Known as the ‘Gateway to the Cotswolds’, Burford has a medieval High Street with many independent shops, pubs, and tea rooms. It sits on the River Windrush and is surrounded by beautiful countryside.
Cheltenham – An attractive spa town with Regency architecture, Cheltenham has a strong cultural scene, holding events such as the Cheltenham Literature Festival and the famous Cheltenham Festival. There is a large selection of shops, excellent schools, and many green, open spaces.
Cirencester – Known as the ‘Capital of the Cotswolds’, Cirencester is a historic market town known for its Roman heritage and culture, period properties, and strong community. It offers independent shops, traditional markets, good schooling, and green spaces.
Things to consider before buying
- ‘Listed’ Properties – Many homes in the Cotswolds are protected due to their age and special character. This is referred to as being ‘listed’ and these properties require specific planning permissions for changes and renovations. For example, in a property’s description, it will state ‘Grade II [2] listed’ or similar.
- Planning Rules – Many areas within a town or village are similarly protected to ensure the overall character is preserved. There are many designated Conservation Areas throughout Oxfordshire and the Cotswolds; in addition, the whole of the Cotswolds is a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
- Transport & Infrastructure – The area is a mixture of busy urban areas, quieter villages, and some properties are remote. Overall, there is a good infrastructure of road and rail connections, but specific research should be undertaken to ensure a location will meet your transport requirements.
- Seasonal Changes – It’s important to know that certain towns and villages in Oxfordshire and the Cotswolds attract tourists, especially in the summer months.
- Community & Lifestyle – Communities vary in atmosphere from busy market towns and close-knit villages to secluded hamlets. Deciding what lifestyle you want to lead will help you narrow down the most suitable locations in which to live.
Moving from America to England: Making the purchase process easier
Buying a home in Oxfordshire or the Cotswolds can be a great long-term investment. Working with an experienced buying agent will help you navigate the process, ensuring you find the right home and are supported throughout the transaction.
If you are moving from America to England and looking for your perfect home in Oxfordshire or the Cotswolds, we would be delighted to hear from you. Garrington offers an initial consultation without obligation, so do get in touch to discuss your plans and find out more about our services.
