Since the early 1990s, buying property abroad has been a popular way for wealthy Russians to invest money and build bridges to a safe and comfortable life in Western countries. This trend has long been associated with members of high-society such as oligarchs, high-ranking officials and celebrities. However, since the real-estate prices have fallen during the economic crisis, a new segment of middle-class customers has emerged.

Russians led the purchase of elite real estate in London , research published by the Knight Frank consulting company. The report confirm that Russians made up 15% of the foreign buyers of elite London real estate in May, with 56% of the purchasers foreigners.