Why More Brits Are Looking at Florida Property Again (And What’s Actually Driving the Interest)

Over the last few months, I’ve had an increasing number of conversations with people back in the UK asking the same question:

“Are Brits starting to buy in Florida again?”

My answer is: yes….. but not for the reasons people usually assume.

This isn’t about cheap flights or theme park offers. What I’m seeing on the ground here in Florida suggests something more structural is happening.

1. The UK Property Narrative Has Changed

For many UK buyers, property used to feel predictable:

• Stable demand
• Reliable financing
• A clear landlord framework

That certainty has eroded.

Between higher interest rates, shifting tax treatment, and regulatory changes including the impending Renters Rights Bill, UK property (particularly for landlords) feels more complex and less forgiving than it did a decade ago.

That doesn’t mean people have stopped believing in property. It means some are starting to look further afield for balance.

2. Florida Solves a Different Set of Problems

Florida isn’t a replacement for UK property, but it can be a diversifier.

From a UK perspective, Florida offers:

• No state income tax
• Strong population growth
• A massive (more landlord friendly) domestic rental market
• A legal system UK buyers generally understand and trust

And crucially, it offers choice:

• Holiday homes you can actually use
• Long-term rentals driven by internal US migration
• Condos, townhomes, and single-family homes at multiple price points

For many Brits, that flexibility is the appeal.

3. Currency Plays a Bigger Role Than People Admit

Currency doesn’t drive decisions, but it does accelerate them.

When sterling strengthens even modestly against the dollar, US property suddenly feels mentally cheaper. Even if prices haven’t moved you get more “bang for your buck”, and right now Sterling  is trading near four year highs against the dollar.

That said, I’ve noticed that UK buyers often don’t wait for “perfect” FX rates. No, they move when:

• The numbers make sense enough
• The asset feels understandable
• The longer-term dynamics stacks up

Florida ticks those boxes.

4. This Isn’t a Speculative Crowd

One important distinction: The UK buyers I’m speaking with are not chasing quick flips.

They tend to fall into three groups:

1. Professionals planning a future US lifestyle pivot
2. Families wanting a genuine holiday base for 3 months of the year
3. Investors looking for dollar-denominated income and long-term stability

They ask thoughtful questions about:

• Insurance
• Flood zones
• Condo rules
• Property management
• Tax exposure (both UK and US)

That tells you something about intent.

5. Why This Time Feels Different

Brits have always bought in Florida, but this wave feels more deliberate.

It’s less “Florida looks cheap” and more “The UK feels uncertain, where else should I be allocating capital and lifestyle optionality?”

That’s a very different mindset.

Final Thoughts

Florida isn’t for everyone. Neither is overseas property ownership.

But if you’re UK-based, thinking long-term, and open to diversifying both lifestyle and assets, it’s no longer fringe to consider US real estate, particularly here in Southwest Florida.

I’m sharing this simply because the questions keep coming.

If you’re curious, skeptical, or just exploring ideas, I’m always happy to answer any questions about buying US property as a Brit, no pitch, no pressure.