Ultra High Net Worth Individuals

 Santa Barbara Sunset over Sterns Wharf

An increasing number of the world’s wealthiest people are buying non traditional homes outside of where that usually live and the vast majority own  two or more homes, new research shows.  Ultra-high net worth individuals (UHNW)  are classed as those with assets above $30 million and are discerning about what they buy, says the research report from Wealth-X and Sotheby’s International Realty.  UHNW buyers look for residences that are environmentally sustainable, technologically sophisticated, or that fit better with their personal and family needs.  The average buyer in this sector is 63 years old, married and has a net worth of US$165 million. The top place to buy a second home is the United States followed by the UK and then Switzerland.

A breakdown of the research shows that five years ago international homes accounted for 11% of non-primary UHNW residences, whereas they now account for 16%. Nearly 80% of UHNW individuals own at least two homes and over half own at least three homes.While many of these residences are purchased as holiday homes, UHNW individuals are buying additional homes for a variety of reasons and are spending more time away from their primary residence.

As they spend more time in their additional residences, many UHNW individuals are buying homes based on lifestyle considerations that go beyond finding a holiday home. Home buyers are increasingly looking for properties that are environmentally sustainable, technologically sophisticated, or better fit their personal and family needs.One chief lifestyle consideration is the desire to have an environmentally friendly residence. In recent years, the rising demand for eco-friendly luxury home building has fuelled a green transformation. The spread of energy efficient building techniques has led to a variety of new homes that maintain the standards an UHNW would expect but in a more environmentally sustainable way.

Interest in tech savvy homes among UHNW buyers has also risen, driven by the availability of new home technologies and expectations of younger UHNW individuals. These younger buyers want their homes to reflect the level of technological innovation and integration they experience elsewhere in their lives.Signature statement homes have also become a popular trend. In a market where making a splash has become harder, buying an island is one way to stand out. Owning a private island not only affords the ultimate opportunity for privacy and personal luxury, but also provides a legacy that can be enjoyed for generations, and is truly a one of a kind asset.