Updated October 2026.
Buying London property from Dubai is routine, and most steps can be completed without travelling. The important part is understanding the full cost and commitment before you reserve.
The process in outline
- Agree the brief — purpose, budget, location, horizon and how you will own the property.
- Shortlist and assess — compare options on price evidence, running costs and risks, not brochure copy.
- Reserve — a reservation fee secures a unit for a set period; check refund terms.
- Legal work — a UK solicitor completes identity, source-of-funds and contract checks, often signing under power of attorney.
- Exchange — the contract becomes binding and a deposit is paid.
- Completion — the balance is paid, SDLT is settled and the title is registered.
The costs
Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) for residential purchases in England is charged in bands: 0% up to £125,000, 2% to £250,000, 5% to £925,000, 10% to £1.5 million and 12% above (rates in force from 1 April 2025). Buyers who already own residential property anywhere in the world usually pay a 5% higher-rates surcharge on top, and non-UK residents pay a further 2% surcharge. As an illustration, a non-resident who already owns property elsewhere would pay roughly £80,000 on a £750,000 purchase. Your solicitor confirms the exact figure — and rates can change at any Budget.
Add legal fees, any mortgage costs and, once you own the property, service charges, insurance, letting and management fees, maintenance and UK tax on rental income.
How CM2 helps
CM2 manages the acquisition process from London alongside your solicitor and tax adviser. Request a private consultation or message Julian on WhatsApp.
CM2 operates on the buyer side while receiving compensation from participating developer partners, including Aldar Properties and London Square. Buyers are not charged a fee by CM2. This article is general information, not legal, tax or financial advice. Figures may be indicative, availability can change and projected yields are not guaranteed.