It’s Paul Shinerock here, back at my desk after spending a wonderful six weeks in Spain with my wife, Jo. It’s good to be home, though I must admit, Spain’s sunny skies and laid back lifestyle left their mark. Before we left, I treated Jo to a new backpack from a brand called Jo and Mr Joe. As Jo rightly pointed out (with a smile), I’m “Mr Jo,” and if you’re anything like us, you’ll agree that the Mrs tends to be the boss when it comes to important decisions - especially about moving home!
This got me thinking about the value of property. Like Jo’s new backpack, which is of course both practical and stylish, our homes aren’t just bricks and mortar - they hold immense emotional value and are often the crux of our financial wellbeing. Reflecting on our own home, I was struck by how much it’s grown in value over the years. In the last 20 years, our house has increased by a staggering 75%. It’s a perfect example of why investing in property truly is safe as houses.
Let me take you through why the UK property market remains so resilient and share some insights that could help you make your next big move.
Amidst all the economic uncertainty of recent years, the UK property market continues to be a pillar of stability. As the rest of the economy stagnates somewhat, bricks and mortar remains one of the safest and most rewarding investments.
In areas like Purley, Croydon, and Surrey, the property market is thriving, buoyed by high demand, low supply, and the ongoing appeal of home ownership.
But why does property continue to outperform other investment options? What are the factors driving its resilience? Let’s find out!
The resilience of the property market stems from several factors. First, the imbalance between supply and demand continues to push house price growth. Across the South East, including Purley, Croydon and Surrey, the number of homes available simply cannot keep up with the growing demand. Limited new builds, strict planning regulations, and a preference for owning property all contribute to this trend. For homeowners, this means properties retain and often grow in value, even during challenging economic periods.
Property holds an emotional and practical appeal that other assets don’t offer. Property provides more than just financial returns; it’s a place to call home, raise a family, or invest in the future. While investments like stocks and shares can be unpredictable, property is tangible and generally reliable. Over the past 30 years, UK house prices have demonstrated consistent long-term growth, far outpacing inflation. Even during economic downturns, property has proved to be a steady investment, offering security - and significant returns.
In addition to its stability, property also serves as a reliable way to protect your money from rising costs. As the cost-of-living increases, property values tend to go up as well, ensuring your investment keeps pace.
1. Look for Growth Areas
Focus on areas with potential for future growth. In Croydon, regeneration projects and improved transport links have created exciting opportunities over the years. These locations often experience significant increases in property value over time.
2. Stay Flexible with Your Wishlist
While it’s important to have priorities, being open to properties that need minor renovations or are slightly outside your ideal location can help you find hidden gems in a competitive market.
3. Consider Multi-Functional Spaces
Look for homes with flexible layouts or potential for home offices. The rise of remote working has increased demand for properties that can adapt to changing lifestyles, making homes like this a good investment.
Purley, Croydon, and Surrey offer a unique combination of lifestyle benefits and investment potential. Purley, with its suburban charm and proximity to both London and the countryside, is a firm favourite among families and professionals. Excellent schools, large green spaces like Riddlesdown Common, and strong transport links make this area an attractive choice for homebuyers.
Croydon, once an underrated area, has seen a remarkable transformation in recent years. The mix of cultural vibrancy and ongoing economic development has strengthened its reputation, making it a hotspot for young professionals and investors.
Surrey offers a mix of rural tranquillity and urban convenience. From picturesque villages to thriving towns, the area caters to a wide range of preferences. High-performing schools, expansive green spaces, and excellent commuter links to London make Surrey one of the most desirable regions in the South East. Properties in this area consistently perform well.
The enduring appeal of property lies in its ability to offer emotional and financial security. Property is tangible. You can live in it, improve it, and watch its value grow over time. It’s also a reliable way to pass wealth on to future generations.
For those looking to generate additional income, property also offers excellent dual-purpose potential. Renting out a spare room or converting a garage into a self-contained annexe are just two ways to turn your home into a source of financial stability.
Beyond the financial advantages, owning a home provides a huge sense of stability and pride. It’s a foundation on which people build their lives and this emotional connection is one of the reasons property remains a timeless and resilient investment.
As Jo often reminds me, a home is more than just an investment; it’s your sanctuary. But from a financial perspective, property has always been a cornerstone of wealth building. Our own home is a prime example. When we bought it 20 years ago, we never imagined it would grow in value by 75%. That increase isn’t just a number - it’s security for the future and a testament to the stability of the property market.
You may also be interested to read: Understanding Today’s Housing Market
The UK property market in 2025 is set to continue its upward trajectory, especially in areas with limited housing stock and high demand.
In regions like Purley, Croydon, and Surrey, the scarcity of available homes creates a competitive market where prices are likely to climb. Sellers stand to benefit significantly, as demand from buyers eager to secure homes in these desirable areas shows no sign of slowing. For buyers, acting quickly and making informed decisions will be crucial in a fast-moving market.
In 2025, the property market shows no signs of slowing. With demand still far outstripping supply, especially in Purley, Croydon, and Surrey, now is an excellent time to act. Whether you’re upgrading, downsizing, or investing for the future, the opportunities are there. And, as I’ve learned, when the real boss (Jo, of course) says it’s time to move, you know it’s the right call!
If you’re a homeowner in Purley, Croydon, or Surrey, now is the perfect time to take advantage of the buoyant property market.
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Whether you’re considering selling, buying, or simply want to know your home’s current value, Shinerocks Estate Agents is here to help. With decades of local expertise and a passion for delivering exceptional service, we’re committed to helping you achieve your property goals.
Contact us today at Shinerocks Estate Agents. For tailored support, call 020 8660 2010 or email enquiries@shinerocks.co.uk.
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You can also call us on 020 8660 2010, or email enquiries@shinerocks.co.uk.
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