A recent survey by RAW Capital Partners reveals that while many UK mortgage brokers view international clients as a key growth opportunity, they face significant challenges in securing suitable lenders and navigating complex government policies.

The independent survey, which included 300 UK mortgage brokers, found that only 35% frequently work with non-UK resident buyers. However, 62% are actively seeking to expand their overseas client base.

Over the past five years, 60% of brokers have observed increased demand from international clients, and 63% anticipate this trend will continue or grow in the next five years.

Despite this optimism, brokers encounter obstacles when assisting non-UK residents in purchasing UK property. 66% reported that new policies introduced since the Labour government took office have increased the need for broker support among overseas clients, particularly regarding stamp duty reforms and private rental sector regulations.

Additionally, 62% of brokers believe there are too few lenders willing or able to work with non-UK clients.

Tim Parkes, CEO of RAW Capital Partners, said: “The demand for UK property from overseas investors remains perennially high, and brokers are clearly responding to this by actively seeking out ways to grow their client base internationally.

“Indeed, with economic turbulence commonplace across many countries around the world, we’ve seen investors shifting focus to the UK to reap the benefits of its historically strong, stable, and resilient property market.

“However, the inability or reluctance of mainstream mortgage providers to lend to non-UK residents, typically because of the extra due diligence required, has left brokers and international buyers in a difficult position.

“Now, with many brokers expecting interest from international buyers to rise in the coming years, it is more important than ever that the specialist finance sector fills this gap.”