Research from the Stroud & Swindon group estimates that by the year 2024 - just 17 years away - buyers will be obliged to pay ?1 million for their first home, if current trends continue. Areas in particular danger of becoming the domain of millionaires are Greater London and the South-West and South-East.

Due to the continual upward advancement of house prices in the UK, the more savvy property investors are plying their trade on foreign shores - particularly in , which has now been a favored location for British holidaymakers and experts for several decades. Compared with Britain's is relatively inexpensive, has a huge variety of properties available, and of course has the advantage of the Mediterranean climate. The wonderfully regionalized culture means the vast majority of locals are friendly, as well as there being differences both major and subtle depending on where you are. Also well-known for its beautiful landscapes, featuring both ice-capped mountains and beautiful sandy beaches, it comes as no surprise that properties in Spain are constantly in high demand with adroit English investors.

Another very popular destination for those wishing to escape the confines of Europe is Saint Lucia, an independent island nation in the Caribbean. Previously known only for the quality and quantity of its banana exports, increased competition in that market has caused the tourist and property industries to expand over the last decade. Like Spain, property in St Lucia is comparatively cheap when you consider the surroundings: typical tropical weather, incredible panoramic vistas, and great variety of beaches and resorts for such a small island.