The “5 Year Itch”: Why London Leavers Are Moving Back - and How Nuven Surveyors Can Help

Five years ago, during the height of Covid-19, London saw a wave of people packing up and heading for greener pastures. Lockdowns, remote working, and the lure of space and affordability outside the capital led to many thousands leaving the city. But fast forward to 2025, and many are now making the return journey. 

This “boomerang effect” isn’t just reshaping London’s property market, it’s also highlighting the importance of professional guidance when re-entering one of the UK’s most complex housing markets. Here’s why the trend is happening, and how a good surveyor can make all the difference for those moving back.

The Covid Effect 

• Space over density: Lockdowns amplified the challenges of compact London living. Families and professionals alike sought gardens, spare rooms (especially with the majority moving to a home working model), and countryside calm. 

• Remote work opportunities: With offices closed, commuting was no longer a factor. Living outside London became not only possible but attractive. 

• Lifestyle and cost: Many reevaluated whether London’s higher prices matched what they were getting in return. 

The 2025 Return 

• Hybrid work is back: Employers are increasingly asking staff to spend more time in the office. Commuting from afar is becoming unsustainable and expensive. 

• City life regained its shine: From cultural events to career opportunities, the capital offers unique advantages that rural or suburban life can’t fully match.

• Property dynamics shifting: Some suburban and rural areas have become pricier and more competitive, eroding the financial benefit of leaving. 

For those now returning, the move isn’t always straightforward: 

• Competitive housing market: Demand can be high, especially in well-connected boroughs. 

• Hidden property issues: Older homes, converted flats, and rapidly developed new builds all come with risks that can be costly if overlooked.

• Complex leaseholds: London’s market has a higher concentration of flats with leasehold structures, which carry unique pitfalls for buyers.

This is where a good surveyor can be invaluable: 

1. Spotting Structural Issues Early
   As always, properties, particularly period homes can hide defects. A surveyor ensures you know what you’re buying and you go into a purchase fully informed. 

2. Guidance on Market Value
   With fluctuating property prices across different areas, surveyors help determine whether the asking price truly reflects the property’s condition and market value. 

3. Navigating Leaseholds and Legal Risks
   A surveyor can highlight critical details about lease terms, shared responsibilities, or potential restrictions before you commit. 

4. Futureproofing Your Investment
   By assessing repair needs or renovation potential, a surveyor gives buyers a clearer picture of long-term costs, helping avoid unpleasant surprises. 

5. Peace of Mind
   For returnees juggling the emotional and logistical challenges of moving back, having a trusted professional ensures confidence in one of life’s biggest purchases. 

The story of London’s Covid exodus and rebound is still being written. But what’s clear is that the city’s draw remains powerful and many are eager to return. 

For those considering the move, instructing a surveyor isn’t just a box-ticking exercise. It’s the difference between a smooth re-entry into city life and costly mistakes in an already high-stakes market. 

London may always be a city people leave and come back to, but with the right guidance, that Nuven Surveyors can provide, moving back can feel less like a gamble and more like coming home with confidence.