Capital View: The global housing downturn will deepen - but this isn’t 2008
The US, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and Sweden are now all in the third stage of a property market downturn, suggests Neil Shearing, Group Chief Economist at Capital Economics. But a crisis on the scale of 2008 is unlikely.

The Journal of Luxury Property. Required reading for prime property professionals.
Most prime global cities are likely to see property prices increase in 2021 – Knight Frank
Prime property markets around the world have proven "largely resilient" in the face of this year's happenings, reports Knight Frank.
Global Property Buyers in 2021: Five key stats & five future trends
Knight Frank's Global Buyer Survey 2021 tracks how the world's affluent property buyers’ priorities, motivations and attitudes are changing.
By PrimeResi
Six ways to improve housing taxation around the world
“There is significant scope for countries to improve the design and functioning of housing taxes,” declares the OECD, as it advises high-income economies including the UK to cut residential transaction…
Companies in this article
Capital EconomicsMost read
‘A transformative project for London’: The Whiteley’s spectacular grand opening, in pictures
£1.5bn West London scheme arrives in style with lavish 600-guest party; ushers in 'new era' for Queensway.
One Hyde Park residents sue over alleged defects
Corroded pipes could cost £35mn to repair, suggest lawyers for super-prime Knightsbridge home-owners.
By PrimeResi
Charlie Ellingworth: A ‘tour d’horizon’ of the prime property market in 2025
Property Vision's co-founder runs through some of the major developments & legislation that have shaped, and are shaping, the landscape in London & the country.
In Pictures: ‘Iconic’ Kensington penthouse seeks buyer
'Garden in the sky' was created in the early 1960s & sits at almost the highest point in the Royal Borough.
Property Listenings: Three real estate podcasts to hear this month
Catch up on fascinating conversations with industry insiders in PrimeResi's new regular round-up.
25 Years On: How the super-prime lettings landscape has changed since the turn of the millennium
Today's top-end tenants are a lot more footloose & want the comfort of five-star hotel living, explains Amelia Greene.
New private office offers ‘closed-loop’ property service in prime markets
Ben Sloane, formerly of House Collective, teams up with ex-KPMG & PwC man Richard Morris on new London-based venture, The 38 Group.
In Pictures: Inside ‘one of the widest & most impressive’ homes in Regent’s Park
Grade I-listed mansion-and-mews combo on Hanover Terrace measures over 7,700 sq ft & has views across the iconic boating lake.
Key launches, challenges & trends in London’s new homes market
Sales are proving strongest for build-complete homes, and nearly a third of developers are expecting stronger reservation volumes in 2025, reports Anna Ward.
By Anna Ward
Former Engel & Völkers chief joins Spain Sotheby’s International Realty
Vivium-owned luxury real estate firm brings in Sven Odia as Executive Chairman, as some ambitious expansion plans take shape.
LATEST ARTICLES
RICS moves to set AI guidelines as industry undergoes ‘transformation’
'As AI continues to reshape surveying practices, it is essential to ensure that its use remains transparent, reliable, and aligned with professional standards,' says organisation.
Foxtons confirms soaring sales revenue & profit
Following a torrid week in the press, high-profile agency claims 'significant market share gains' & reiterates 'commitment to an inclusive, professional and respectful culture' in annual update to investors.
Liam Bailey: Eight key themes from The Wealth Report 2025
The Editor of Knight Frank's flagship research publication, Liam Bailey, summarises some of the big trends & ideas featured in this year's Wealth Report - from American domination and shifts in global…
By Liam Bailey
From Downtown Dubai to the Garden of England: The world’s hottest luxury property markets in 2025
Knight Frank’s global teams highlight ten prime resi locations set to outperform this year - including two British surprises.
By PrimeResi
Fleetwood Mac legend’s London penthouse goes up for sale
Beauchamp Estates is expecting 'global interest' in the late Christine McVie's residence on Eaton Place.