Barnes, London SW13: Houses and Flats for Sale

Barnes sits in a loop of the Thames in the borough of Richmond upon Thames, with a village green, a duck pond, Barnes Common and the London Wetland Centre. Trains from Barnes and Barnes Bridge stations reach Waterloo in about 25 minutes. Neighbouring areas include Putney, Richmond, Fulham and Wimbledon, while Islington is in north London and London as a whole offers wider choices. Buyers are families, many from the City, media and finance, and overseas buyers who want a village feel inside Zone 3.

Anyone can buy freehold property in England. Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) is banded and rises sharply at this price level; non-UK residents pay a 2% surcharge, and a 5% higher rate applies if you buy an additional dwelling. Add legal fees, survey costs and agent fees if you sell. Many leasehold flats have service charges and ground rent, so ask for the lease length.

Overseas buyers must pass anti-money-laundering checks, so have proof of funds ready. Mortgages are available to non-residents, often with larger deposits. See the UK buying guide, the financing page and the UK overview. Use the mortgage calculator.