Frequently Asked Questions

What is the role of a buying agent?

A buying agent (sometimes called a property finder) acts exclusively for the purchaser, sourcing and securing homes that align with their brief. At Lucie Hirst Private Clients, we manage every stage of the acquisition - from identifying rare off-market properties to negotiating terms, managing the conveyancing process and overseeing completion. Unlike estate agents, we work only for the buyer, ensuring impartial advice and total discretion.

Why use a buying agent in London or the Cotswolds?

London’s prime property market and the Cotswolds country house market are both highly competitive and complex, with many homes sold privately before reaching the open market. Using a buying agent provides early access, expert negotiation, and calm, strategic guidance throughout the process - saving clients significant time and ensuring no opportunity is missed.

How do you find off-market properties?

Many of the homes we acquire are never publicly advertised. Through long-standing relationships with estate agents, developers, private owners and professional advisors, we hear about properties before they reach the market. Our network allows us to arrange discreet viewings and approach owners directly, ensuring our clients have first choice of the most desirable opportunities.

Can you help clients relocating to London or the UK?

Yes. Lucie Hirst Private Clients frequently represents clients relocating from the US, Europe and the Middle East who require local expertise, trusted introductions and logistical support. We provide comprehensive guidance on neighbourhoods, schooling, travel connections, legal and tax structuring, ensuring each move is seamless and well-considered.

What types of properties do you specialise in?

We focus on prime residential property, from lateral apartments and townhouses in Chelsea, Notting Hill, Kensington, Marylebone and Mayfair to family houses in Barnes, Chiswick and Hampstead, and country estates throughout Oxfordshire and the Cotswolds. Our experience spans both period and newly built homes, each selected for quality, character and long-term value.

Do you assist with property investment?

Yes. In addition to private home acquisitions, Lucie Hirst Private Clients advises clients seeking to purchase investment properties for rental income or long-term capital growth. We provide detailed market intelligence, yield analysis and acquisition strategy, often in partnership with trusted tax and legal advisors.

What sets Lucie Hirst Private Clients apart from other buying agents?

We combine deep local insight with a highly personalised, low-volume approach. Every client works directly with founder Lucie Hirst, whose relationships and reputation within the industry ensure access to exceptional opportunities. Our focus is on quality over quantity, and on achieving the right result - not simply the quickest.

Can you help after completion?

Yes. Many of our clients continue to rely on us after purchase for introductions to interior designers, architects, household staff, and trusted local tradespeople. We can also coordinate renovation works or manage the transition between city and country homes.

How do you charge for your services?

Our fees are transparent and agreed in advance, typically combining a small retainer with a success fee payable on exchange of contracts. This ensures complete alignment of interest - we are incentivised only to secure the right property at the best possible terms for our client.

How do I start a property search with LHPC?

You can contact us directly via our website or email lucie@luciehirst.com to arrange an initial consultation. We’ll discuss your objectives, preferred areas, budget and timing before tailoring a bespoke search strategy. From there, we handle every detail - discreetly, efficiently and with the utmost professionalism.

Can you assist with both London and countryside homes simultaniously?

Absolutely. Many of our clients divide their time between London and the Cotswolds, and we specialise in managing both searches in parallel. This ensures consistency of taste, value and timing - whether acquiring a London pied-à-terre or a family estate in the Oxfordshire hills.

Do you work alongside other professional advisors?

Yes. We work closely with lawyers, surveyors, tax specialists, mortgage advisors and family offices to ensure each transaction is structured correctly. Our network of trusted partners allows every aspect of the purchase to run smoothly from introduction to completion.

What are the current trends in London’s prime property market?

The prime central London market remains resilient, driven by limited supply and growing international interest. Well-located properties in Chelsea, Kensington and Notting Hill continue to perform strongly, while family homes in Barnes, Chiswick and Marylebone are increasingly sought-after. In the Cotswolds, demand for country houses and estates remains high, particularly among buyers relocating from London.