“May you live in interesting times!” This ancient adage seems to have taken on new relevance in the present era. As we navigate the post-pandemic landscape, the world appears to be more interconnected than ever, influenced by the ebbs and flows of current events and market dynamics. While predicting the future remains elusive, a clear-eyed assessment of the current state of luxury residential real estate unveils a promising outlook.
We sat down with experts from Christie’s International’s global affiliate network to gain insights into the mid-year luxury property market. Their consensus for the latter part of 2023 is refreshingly positive, a surprising sentiment given the lingering uncertainties surrounding inflation, interest rates, supply chain disruptions, and inventory struggles.
Dubai: Rising Against the Tide
Dubai, a city known for its luxury real estate market, is embracing the trend with open arms. Despite global challenges, demand in Dubai continues to surge, propelling both sales and prices to unprecedented heights. According to Jackie Johns, Managing Partner of Christie’s International Real Estate Dubai, the market remains “stable and expanding.” The first half of 2023 surpassed expectations, with sales volume reaching AED 179.4 billion (approximately US$48.85 billion) – more than 75 percent of the entire 2022 figure.
A staggering 176 deals surpassed the US$10 million threshold, a feat that even outshined luxury markets like New York and Hong Kong. The city’s intrinsic ability to accommodate growth has been a driving force behind this success, and the demand shows no sign of abating. Although developers have struggled to keep up with the fervent demand, the market’s position as a global luxury powerhouse is solidified further in 2023.
Asia-Pacific: Riding Currency Waves
The Asia-Pacific region has witnessed an influx of overseas buyers capitalizing on favorable currency fluctuations. With the Australian dollar weakening and travel restrictions lifting in China, the luxury market in Sydney remains buoyant, hosting a flurry of international buyers. Factors such as excellent schooling, pleasant weather, and a stable political environment further bolster the market’s resilience.
Japan: From Currency Devaluation to Chalet Demand
Currency shifts have also played a significant role in Japan’s luxury market. The devaluation of the Japanese yen has attracted foreign investors, drawn by the perceived value in the marketplace. Additionally, pent-up demand, coupled with the reopening of Japan’s borders post-COVID, has triggered a surge in the country’s vacation home market.
Global Instability and Geopolitical Factors
Supply and demand imbalances prevail across multiple markets due to historically low levels of for-sale inventory, a situation that predates the pandemic. New York City stands as a unique case, with an abundance of supply but hesitant demand. Despite stabilization from the pandemic-induced volatility, buyers and sellers are cautiously adapting to market conditions, with expectations of further adjustments in prices.
Continued global instability, such as the Ukraine conflict and economic uncertainty, ripples into the New York City real estate market. Similarly, the London market saw a sluggish start in 2023, influenced by weather, the coronation of King Charles III, and seasonal activity patterns.
Emerging Trends in Luxury Real Estate for 2023
1. Land and Larger Homes
Buyer preferences are evolving, with an increasing focus on green neighborhoods and larger properties. In Dubai, the post-pandemic shift towards private spaces has driven demand for homes near parks and golf courses. The trend extends to Japan’s Hokkaido prefecture, where luxury ski chalets in larger estates are on the rise.
2. “Flight-to-Quality”
Global economic uncertainty has triggered a “flight-to-quality” mentality, with buyers seeking value and quality in established properties, particularly period homes. The UK luxury market has seen sustained interest in Georgian and Victorian properties.
3. Deluxe Amenities and Sustainability
Luxury homebuyers prioritize building quality and lifestyle features, including doormen, security, gyms, pools, and outdoor spaces. Sustainability also garners attention, with buyers favoring properties equipped with renewable energy solutions and high energy efficiency.
4. High Demand, Low Supply
Persistent low supply in many luxury markets is expected to keep prices buoyant, leading to continued off-market transactions. In Sydney, demand remains high, driven by scarcity and an appetite for larger landholdings. Dubai’s market showcases robust demand from an influx of high-net-worth individuals, sparking growth in real estate development.
5. Impact of Interest Rates
While interest rate hikes influence different markets to varying degrees, they appear to have a more substantial effect on European residential markets. Rates in places like Japan have remained stable, contributing to a positive investment climate.
In an ever-changing world, luxury real estate markets remain dynamic and adaptive. The mid-year market update offers a glimpse into the intricate tapestry of global market forces, highlighting trends that span from Dubai to London, Sydney to Tokyo. As we move forward, these insights remind us that despite challenges, the allure of luxury living endures, driven by shifting preferences, evolving demographics, and a commitment to quality, sustainability, and comfort.
Courtesy Lucy Carsen & Peter Olesker of Christie’s International Real Estate (Luxury Defined).
