Chris Chalmers
‘I cannot fault the service from Whitman & Co. Highly recommended for their professionalism and knowledge of the area.’ – Lynne Button
‘We are halfway through the year and there’s a noticeable difference in how W4’s property market is performing across sectors,’ says Chris Chalmers, Sales Director of Whitman & Co.
‘So far in 2026, we have sold property valued at £106 million. With no shortage of cash buyers, there’s been consistent strong activity in the £2-£4 million range and many of those transactions have been off-market.’
‘In contrast, the flats market is very difficult. Driven significantly by ex-rental stock being offloaded, there’s an oversupply and, with new legislation and no prospect of interest rate changes, little hope of improvement. Of course, as less property becomes available, rents rise.’
‘In this context, our in-depth local knowledge and realistic approach to valuations and strategy becomes even more important. The advice we give will vary significantly according to factors such as the price bracket – whether you have a flat worth £500-£600,000 or a £2 million-plus house – and the specific location. Some areas of Chiswick are doing better than others.’
Whitman & Co is marketing a remarkable detached Grade II-listed Queen Anne residence in The Butts Conservation Area, at a guide price of £3.75m. Extending to over 5,500 sq ft, the house features an architect-designed heated indoor swimming pool with spa facilities, wonderful landscaped walled garden and impressive period features throughout.
The Whitman’s team is finding that many landlords are still planning to sell. ‘It seems to be a definite trend,’ explains Chris. ‘People are giving up their buy-to-let properties – both flats and houses – and investing their money elsewhere for a better return. The attitude seems to be: “I’ve had a good run, now I’m moving on.”
‘With tenants now able to serve notice immediately after two months, landlords are also becoming much more choosy. The tenant has to be near perfect – with the right job and references and absolutely no issues with any past tenancy.
That’s almost the reverse of what was intended by the Renters’ Rights legislation.’ Chiswick’s retail sector has continued to defy expectations this year. ‘Conditions are tough, as has been seen with the closures due to corporate failure of Vinoteca, Franco Manca and Fired Earth,’ says Commercial Director, Jeremy Day.
‘Many retail owners, and especially those in hospitality, are feeling the pressure of high rates and a heavy VAT burden. It has rarely been more important to support our local businesses – it’s use them or lose them!’
Despite the closures, Jeremy has seen enquiry levels remain strong and many shops are thriving. ‘For example, it has been very encouraging to see Joe and the Juice invest in their store and Mountain Warehouse’s recent brand switch to Animal, another new mainstream fashion offering.
‘We have recently concluded new lettings at Turnham Green Station, where Morrisons has taken the former art shop, and in Devonshire Road, where Doctor Dough, a neighbourhood New York-style pizza parlour,is opening in the former glaziers – it’s sure to create a buzz this Summer.
‘At Southfield Road, the Hair & Beauty shop which has long been vacant is about to become a new wine store called Velvet Corner and Nara is now open on Turnham Green Terrace. Their authentic Thai menu is an office favourite!
‘We can let each shop several times over, and so we work hard to select retailers and restaurants that local people will welcome. That way we hope that everyone – our clients, the retailers and residents will be happy.’
‘If you need any advice about buying, selling or letting in Chiswick and the surrounding area, do get in touch with us,’ adds Chris. ‘We don’t use minimum-term contracts or notice periods and we provide a friendly, trustworthy service.’
Whitman & Co
5-7 Turnham Green Terrace
Chiswick W4 1RG
020 8747 8800
sales@whitmanandco.com
lettings@whitmanandco.com
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