What we learned from the MIPIM 2018

First and foremost, our team was extremely happy to see the increasing number of delegates this year at MIPIM. It is truly exhilarating to meet new people as well as catching up with friends and acquaintances with whom we share the same passion for property investment. We believe that confidence in the industry has been increasing over the years as property investment is a solid, safe and reliable source of income that can actually last forever.

Our team had the pleasure to extensively discuss with fellow London delegates about how the capital’s realty is shifting. As an international team of agents, designers and property managers we are witnessing these changes every day. One of the challenges is to create worth by participating in projects that add real value to a city. This is the main reason we have been so active in the Battersea Power Station project, a development that is the highlight of Nine Elms which is going through extensive regeneration.

Regeneration projects in London areas play an important role in advancing the capital’s vision, tackling the housing crisis, and ensure London remains the first choice for international investment. Speakers from major urban planners such as Vectos and NLA underlined at MIPIM that every successful regeneration is not complete without incorporating technology or providing connectivity.

Measuring the success of regeneration can be tricky and speakers noted that investment in infrastructure is a critical factor. The London panel recognized that the regeneration of Nine Elms has gained prominence due to the redevelopment of the historic Power Station, the Northern Line extension that will add two new stations in Battersea and Nine Elms, and the use of advanced technology in planning and infrastructure.

Another project that caught our eye, was the regeneration of the Royal Docks, a great example of private and public partnership bringing out the best bits of London’s riverside. The government’s vision to turn the docks into a 21st-century great estate has already started to take shape as individual regeneration projects are currently underway and getting ready to welcome new residents and businesses.

Not so long ago, London’s Royal Docks featured the largest stretch of enclosed water in the world. This 250-acre area was designated a special enterprise zone in 2012 and the ambition to create this latest exciting chapter in the development of London is matched by the desire to be faithful to its history and heritage. The Royal Victoria Docks are the bustling hub of activity in the royal group of docks. Indeed this dock was the first to be built and constructed out of marshland in 1855 and now it has transformed into an exquisite riverside neighbourhood featuring the spectacular residential towers of Hoola located next to the Crystal, a sustainable project building by Siemens.

Transportation leaders and government officials complimented the London pavilion as they shared their thoughts and plans for the future. With the forthcoming opening of the Elizabeth line, TfL is seeking six sector-exclusive corporate sponsors to become long-term partners. The sponsors’ goal will be to promote the new line and the entrance fee for each sponsor will be £6.5m. The crossrail effect and its implications were also discussed as Crossrail 2 is bound to affect house prices and shape market trends. Government presence reinforced the UK’s position in the event, as it was mainly a showcase of European projects with great additions from the UAE, the US and many other nations.

MIPIM 2018 was all about technology and innovation in the industry. Smart houses, 3D printing, and data development are the way forward for real estate based on the panel discussions we attended. Proptech is another concept we are going to be hearing a lot more about in the future. Modular design is another major development companies are turning to, with the world’s tallest modular tower to be built in Croydon.

What made last week at MIPIM particularly special for us was the encounters we had with international investors who are planning to invest in London valued our advice and input. Copperstones Ltd. has numerous projects underway that will go beyond the UK since our passion for luxury property knows no borders. Stay tuned on our Facebook, Twitter, Instagram to be the first one to learn about exclusive launches and new developments.

See you again next year at MIPIM!