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  1. Wealth
March 1, 2022

Prime property prices grow at fastest rate since 2008

By Katharine Swindells

New research published in Knight Frank’s 2022 Wealth Report shows significant growth in prime property

Prime property prices soared globally in 2021, with Dubai, Moscow and US luxury markets seeing the highest growth.

The Knight Frank Prime International Residential Index, released today as part of the 2022 Wealth Report, found that on average prime property grew by 8.4 per cent, the highest annual growth since the report launched in 2008.

In fact, only seven of Knight Frank’s 100 prime markets saw prices decline, while over a third saw growth upwards of 10 per cent.

According to the Wealth Report, this growth was driven by increasing HNW and UHNW populations, as well as low interest rates and shortages in prime property stock in key cities.

Overall, North Americas was the top performing region, accounting for six of the top 10 performing cities and regions.

Europe, the Middle East and Africa saw 7.2 per cent growth, and while the Asia-Pacific outpaced the EMEA with 7.5 per cent growth. This was in large part driven by strong performance in Australasia. Additionally, Asia averaged 5.5 per cent growth.

In 2020, suburban, beach and resort markets saw the strongest growth, as buyers sought out more space and wellness options. And while that trend has continued to 2021, the index also shows a clear rebound of the bustling urban centres that struggled in the pandemic.

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Dubai topped the list with a staggering 44.4 per cent growth, particularly in the higher end of the market: Sales above $10 million usually account for around two per cent of total sales in the market, but in 2021, they represented seven per cent.

‘The UAE’s handling of the pandemic, strong take-up of the vaccine, the delivery of high-end turnkey projects as well as innovative new visa initiatives and economic reforms, have together boosted Dubai’s profile in the eyes of international buyers,’ said Kate Everett-Allen, head of international residential research at Knight Frank.

Looking ahead, Knight Frank is forecasting another year of extremely strong growth, particularly in Dubai, Miami and Zurich. Meanwhile, Asian cities continue to see comparably modest growth.

‘Far from running out steam, this year we will see the luxury housing boom endure,’ Liam Bailey, global head of research at Knight Frank said. ‘Key themes to watch: Agents will complain about stock shortages, buyers will complain about rising taxes and cooling measures, and city markets will be back in demand.’

Image: Shutterstock

Read more coverage of the 2022 Knight Frank Wealth report at Spear’s

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