Knight Frank has appointed Joss Hatcher-Davis as a partner in its super-prime lettings team.

Hatcher-Davis joins from Strutt & Parker, where he spent nearly a decade and consistently ranked as the highest biller, helping to establish its super-prime lettings department. 

A statement from Knight Frank says he will help drive further market share growth in Prime Central London for lettings exceeding £5,000 per week.

Hatcher-Davis comments: “It’s an honour to join as a Partner in what I believe to be the best super-prime department in London. 

“The team’s reputation is truly best-in-class, and I’m excited to contribute to Knight Frank’s continued market dominance while working with some of the most exceptional properties, landlords, and applicants in the capital.”

Tom Smith, Head of Super-Prime Lettings at Knight Frank, adds: “I’m thrilled to welcome Joss to the team. His outstanding reputation, deep market expertise, and exceptional track record make him an invaluable addition to our business. 

“As demand for super-prime rentals in London continues to grow, Joss’ energy and experience will be instrumental in strengthening our market leadership.”

According to Knight Frank data, the number of super-prime tenancies agreed in the six months to February 2025 was 9% higher than the same period a year earlier. 

Additionally, new applicant registrations for super-prime lettings in January 2025 were at their highest level since October 2022.

The agency says several market dynamics are fuelling demand for high-end rental properties. 

Uncertainty around proposed changes to the non-dom tax regime has prompted some foreign investors to keep their options open, driving increased demand for prime rental properties. On top of that, a growing number of globally mobile high-net-worth individuals are opting to rent for two to three years to retain maximum lifestyle flexibility while avoiding substantial upfront costs such as stamp duty.

Smith continues: “We’re seeing a clear trend of high-net-worth individuals renting in Prime Central London as a strategic lifestyle choice. Many are waiting for greater market stability before committing to a purchase, while others are drawn to the financial advantages of avoiding stamp duty. At the same time, we’re also witnessing more vendors place high-value properties onto the rental market — either to generate income amid slower sales cycles, offset rising debt costs, or in some cases, as they themselves choose to relocate offshore”

Key locations driving demand include Knightsbridge, Belgravia, Mayfair, and Kensington. Recent transactions include the long-term letting of two off-market, best-in-class large lateral apartments within 24-hour concierge-led developments, both achieving annual rents exceeding £1,500,000. Additionally, the team has secured the fully off-market letting of a substantial Richmond house at a guide price of £60,000 per calendar month, a Holland Park residence achieving £15,000 per week, and a substantial Knightsbridge home let for £25,000 per week.