What Can You Gain from Investing in a Property in Margate?

Margate, a seaside town located in Kent, has long been known for its sandy beaches, rich artistic heritage and vibrant community. With its historic charm and modern developments, Margate is increasingly attracting attention from property investors and homebuyers alike. If you are considering investing in a property in Margate, this blog will explore the potential gains, including investment potential, ongoing redevelopment plans and insights into the area and its neighbourhoods.

Overview of Margate

Margate is situated on the coastline of the English Channel and is part of the Thanet district. With its historic pier, funfair attractions and art galleries, Margate has become a cultural hub, especially with the arrival of the Turner Contemporary art gallery in 2011. The town’s picturesque coastline and lively arts scene make it a popular destination for tourists and locals. Margate is also well-connected to London, making it an attractive option for commuters seeking a coastal lifestyle.

Investment Potential

Property Market Trends

The property market in Margate has shown significant growth and resilience in recent years. Average property prices in Margate tend to be lower compared to neighbouring towns such as Broadstairs and Ramsgate, providing an appealing entry point for first-time buyers and investors. The variety of housing options available, from period homes to contemporary flats, caters to different buyer preferences and budgets.

Strong Rental Demand

Margate’s rental market continues to thrive, driven by a demand for both seasonal and long-term rental properties. The town’s popularity as a tourist destination makes it an ideal location for short-term holiday rentals, which can offer lucrative returns for investors. Additionally, Margate’s increasing appeal to young professionals and families seeking affordable housing options ensures a strong demand for long-term rental properties. As a result, investors can secure favourable rental yields in this coastal town.

Long-Term Growth Potential

Investing in property in Margate presents opportunities for long-term capital appreciation. The ongoing transformation of the town and its focus on attracting visitors contribute to a positive outlook for property values. The combination of emerging trends in lifestyle choices—such as a growing preference for remote working and a desire for coastal living—suggests that demand for housing in Margate will continue to rise in the foreseeable future.

Redevelopment Plans

Local Government Initiatives

The Thanet District Council and local stakeholders have initiated various redevelopment plans aimed at revitalising Margate and enhancing its appeal as a destination for both residents and tourists. These initiatives focus on improving infrastructure, public spaces and local amenities.

Key Redevelopment Projects

1. Margate Town Centre Regeneration: The council has outlined plans to regenerate the town centre, focusing on creating a more vibrant and accessible environment for residents and visitors. Key components include the enhancement of public spaces, improvements to shopping facilities and increased community engagement through local events. This redevelopment is expected to attract more visitors to Margate, ultimately boosting the local economy and property values.

2. Coastal Improvements: Ongoing plans for coastal improvements aim to enhance the town’s beaches and promenades, making them more accessible and attractive to visitors. This initiative will not only beautify the waterfront but also increase tourism, which can have a positive impact on the local property market.

3. Housing Developments: New housing projects are being planned to address the demand for residential properties in Margate. These developments will focus on providing a mix of affordable housing options suitable for different demographics. By increasing the housing supply, the town can maintain its affordability while catering to the growing population.

The Neighbourhoods of Margate

Margate is home to several distinct neighbourhoods, each offering unique characteristics and amenities that appeal to various lifestyles.

Margate Old Town

Margate Old Town is a thriving area celebrated for its artistic flair and historical significance. With charming cobbled streets, independent shops, galleries and eateries, this neighbourhood attracts a creative community and visitors alike. The ongoing regeneration plans for Old Town aim to enhance its cultural offering and further solidify its status as a destination for arts and creativity.

Cliftonville

Cliftonville is a predominantly residential neighbourhood known for its stunning seafront properties and access to the beach. This area appeals to families and individuals looking for a relaxed coastal lifestyle. Cliftonville features a range of housing options, from period homes to modern flats and is close to local amenities, parks, and schools, making it an attractive choice for families.

Westbrook

Westbrook is a quieter area located to the west of Margate’s town centre. Known for its wide sandy beaches and family-friendly environment, Westbrook is popular among families and retirees. This residential neighbourhood features a mix of housing styles, offering a range of properties for buyers. The local schools and parks enhance its appeal, creating a well-rounded living environment.

Palm Bay

Palm Bay is an affluent neighbourhood situated to the east of Margate. This residential area is characterised by its attractive seaside properties with stunning views of the coast. Palm Bay offers a peaceful atmosphere and a strong sense of community, making it an ideal choice for families and those looking for a tranquil lifestyle close to the beach.

Community and Lifestyle

Margate is known for its strong community spirit, with residents actively participating in local events, festivals and community groups. The town hosts a variety of events throughout the year, such as the Margate Soul Festival and the annual Turner Prize events, which foster local engagement and celebrate the town’s cultural heritage.

In addition to a vibrant social scene, Margate offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities. The beach provides locals with access to water sports, beach games and leisurely walks along the coast. Nearby parks, such as the beautiful Dreamland Gardens, offer green spaces for picnics, play and relaxation.

Margate is also well-served by schools and educational institutions, catering to families with children. The presence of quality educational options further enhances its appeal, ensuring a steady demand for housing from parents looking to raise their families in a supportive community.

Conclusion

In conclusion, investing in property in Margate offers numerous benefits, from attractive property prices and strong rental demand to ongoing redevelopment initiatives and a vibrant community atmosphere. The combination of historical significance, modern amenities and a desirable coastal lifestyle makes Margate a compelling option for both homebuyers and investors.

As the town continues to grow and evolve, securing a property in Margate could yield substantial rewards for future buyers. Whether you are looking for a family-friendly environment, a solid investment opportunity or a lively community to call home, Margate has something to offer everyone. By embracing the potential of this dynamic area now, you can position yourself to reap the benefits that come with purchasing property in this charming seaside town.

As with any investment decision, when buying a property it’s vital that you do your homework carefully. As well as fully researching the location and market that you are looking to buy in, it’s vital that you seek advice of experts, including surveyors and financial advisors. Alexander JLO, its Partners and employees cannot provide specific advice on choice of location or the market but can advise on all matters legal once you have made a decision to buy a property.

If you are looking for a first rate conveyancing service why not give one of Alexander JLO’s specialist property lawyers a call on 020 7537 7000, click on the get a quote button or email quote@london-law.co.uk for a free, no-obligation quotation? Come and see what we can do for you.

This blog was prepared by Alexander JLO’s property partner Matt Johnson on 13th July 2025 and is correct at the date of publication. Matt has many years of experience of dealing with property work and specialises in new build and shared ownership properties.  His profile on the independent Review Solicitor website and be found here