Prince Harry and Meghan Markle reportedly could splash £8k a month on a rental in the Cotswolds as they return to the UK.
The couple are looking to establish a UK base, and the Cotswolds is high on their list according to several national reports.
Experts at cash house buyer Property Buyers Today have analysed the local property market to reveal what their ideal home could look like, and which areas could fit the bill.
Rather than committing to another permanent property, Saif Derzi, founder of Property Buyers Today, believes renting could make more sense for the couple, particularly given their international travel, changing plans and need for flexibility.
“Given the amount of travelling Harry and Meghan do and the possibility that their plans could change, I think renting is a much more realistic option than immediately purchasing a multi-million-pound property,” said Saif.
“A high-end rental would give them the privacy and security they need, while allowing them to test out an area without making a long-term commitment.”
The couple may also have a reason to look towards Great Tew in Oxfordshire, having previously signed a two-year lease on a property on the Great Tew Estate in 2018.
“The fact that they have previously lived around Great Tew makes that area particularly interesting,” remarked Saif.
“They already know the surroundings and the level of privacy the area can offer, so it wouldn’t be surprising if they looked there again.”
Saif believes the couple are unlikely to simply be looking for a beautiful country house, with privacy and security likely to shape their search.
“For Harry and Meghan, privacy is likely to be the most important priority when choosing a Cotswolds property,” he said.
“They’ll need somewhere that offers genuine seclusion, strong security potential, and enough space to give their family a sense of normality.”
He thinks they’re most likely to look for at least five bedrooms, several acres of land, gated access and separate staff and guest accommodation, alongside luxury amenities such as a pool, gym, spa and home office.
“I’d expect their ideal property to sit in the £5m–£8m+ bracket if they were buying. Rental costs could reach up to £8,000 pcm,” added Saif.
Exclusive villages such as Whichford or Wyck Rissington and surrounding areas could also fit the brief, offering a rural setting without being completely isolated.
“The sweet spot would be somewhere rural and private, but still within easy reach of a village and with good road links towards London.”
For the Sussexes, Saif says factors that ordinary buyers may overlook could become essential, including views from neighbouring properties and public roads, multiple access points, secure staff access and proximity to schools, London and airports.
“For a family with their level of public attention, it isn’t just about how impressive a property looks,” he said.
“They’d need to consider how easily the grounds can be secured and whether their movements could be easily monitored or predicted.”
“Their arrival could certainly increase attention on the area, particularly among wealthy international buyers.
“However, I’d expect the biggest impact to be on demand for the most private and exclusive homes rather than a dramatic rise across the entire Cotswolds market.”
Increased paparazzi attention, security measures and disruption could be a concern for residents of quieter villages.
“Having one of the world’s most recognisable couples move nearby could bring attention and investment, but it could also mean more security, media interest and disruption than local residents are used to,” Saif commented.
I hope this is of interest to you. I’m happy to provide further comments from Saif or any further information you may need.
