Every year Scotland becomes more and more attractive to new home buyers, and with good reason. The country is known for its stunning landscapes, friendly people, and robust economy. In addition, recent changes to the tax system have made it even more attractive to seek out new homes in Scotland.
Average property prices in Scotland
The average property prices in Scotland vary depending on the location. In the 12 months to May 2024, the average price for a property in Scotland was £191,000, according to the Office for National Statistics.
In Scotland’s more expensive areas such as Edinburgh and East Lothian, the average price can be much higher. In the year to July 2024, properties in this part of Scotland averaged a price of £297,000 (Rightmove). Meanwhile, the average property price in Glasgow and its surrounding area is just £201,000.
New homes in Scotland: Top 10 best developments
Interested in finding a new home in Scotland? Here are our top 10 best developments, based on location, affordability and facilities on offer as well as the reviews of the people who actually live in them. Note that these top-rated developments include rental options and properties for sale.
*PLEASE NOTE these rankings take into account how recently reviews have been submitted, so may not match the overall star ratings shown. More recent reviews are given a greater weighting to reflect current building performance.
Sweeping into first place, The McEwan is located in the heart of Fountainbridge, just a few minutes walk away from Edinburgh’s Haymarket station. The development has 476 brand new, state of the art rental homes and amenity spaces, including a gym, studio, cinema room, co-working space, shared lounges and public squares. The development also has two private dining rooms with panoramic views over the City and Edinburgh Castle.
Second place for Scotland is taken by The Point, in Schoolhill, Aberdeen. Comprising 342 apartments for rent, residents benefit from a fully equipped gym, cinema, break-out area, library and a coffee shop. As well as this, the development is just 5 minutes away from Aberdeen city centre, putting the whole of the city’s best offerings on your doorstep.
Third placed PLATFORM_ is a rental-only development in Glasgow. Occcupying a sought-after position on the River Clyde, you can find co-working spaces, a games room, gym, three roof terraces, a private cinema, a calendar of social activities, and access to the private dining room, all included in the monthly rent.
Next up, Kingsford Residence, managed by the Kingsford Group and located on McDonald Road in Edinburgh, offers residents the opportunity to stay in a former Victorian school building which has been newly converted to form one of the city’s first operational Build to Rent developments. The apartments retain many of the original features of the building while blending them seamlessly with contemporary open-plan living and modern fixtures.
Minerva Square consisting of 113 apartments across two buildings is a brand new built to rent development offering a range of apartment types; 1 bedroom/ 1 bathroom, 2 bedrooms/1 bathroom, 2 bedrooms/2 bathrooms, 2 bedroom penthouses with wrap around terraces and 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms. Many of the apartments benefit from balconies enjoying far reaching […] Read reviews and details of Minerva Square, G3
We’re back to school for number six! CALA Homes built The Campus, also known as Hammerman Drive, in the mid-2000s. The development comprises a selection of one, two and three-bedroom properties. As well as a contemporary design, it benefits from its leafy grounds formerly occupied by Aberdeen College.
In seventh, Solasta Riverside is a new city centre district. Based on the South Bank of the iconic river Clyde, the development sits directly opposite Central Station. Furthermore, Solasta Riverside’s residential development consists of two 18-story complexes, including 324 Build-to-Rent apartments. Solasta Riverside faces the International Financial Services District, offering great views. Additionally, with direct access to bus, rail, cycle and motorway networks, and only 15 minutes from Glasgow International Airport, Solasta Riverside will activate over a quarter of a mile of river frontage.
G3 Square is a luxury development located in the vibrant Finnieston area of Glasgow, offering 221 one, two, and three-bedroom apartments and penthouses. It is directly opposite the SECC and Hydro, well-connected to the city center via the Exhibition Centre train station. Despite challenges, the first phase was completed and sold by November 2021, and […] Read reviews and details of G3 Square, G3
Aberdeen takes another spot on our Scotland list with Grandhome, which offers a collection of energy-efficent two, three and four-bedroom homes. Bridge Don is a 20-minute drive from Aberdeen city centre, but is surrounded by attractive green spaces and excellent local amenities.
Taking our number 10 spot, Kepplestone Development by Stewart Milne Homes sits in the West End of Aberdeen. Comprising four main apartment blocks with open plan layouts, it gives its residents a comfortingly modern design. There are also exclusive parking areas, which is a relief in this growing part of the city.
Next up, The Strand at Portobello, by Barratt Homes, sits close to the picturesque Portobello beach. The development comprises two and three-bed homes of excellent build quality and good proportions. As well as close proximity to the beach, The Strand is just a few miles from Edinburgh city centre.
Dykes of Gray is a new village located to the west of Dundee city centre. The development offers 2, 3, 4 and 5 bedroom homes as well as 3 play parks and a kick about pitch. Read reviews and details of Dykes of Gray, DD2
Lochrin Quay, managed by JLL, sits next to the Union Canal. The development comprises of 113 contemporary apartments, a mixture of 1, 2 & 4-bed options to rent. In addition to this, residents benefit from bike storage, communal lounge and superfast wifi. Read reviews and details of Lochrin Quay, EH3
Taking 14th place in our list of the top developments in Scotland we have Kinnaird Wynd, by CALA Homes, which offers the perfect city escape at the foot of the Ochil Hills in the Forth Valley. Comprising one and two bedroom apartments, three bedroom terraced and semi detached and four bedroom detached homes, Kinnaird Wynd presents a variety of options for first-time buyers. The development also has a variety of links to all major cities, including Stirling, Edinburgh & Glasgow.
Ballumbie Rise is located a 5 menu†e drive from Kingsway East, it sits next to Ballumbie Castle Golf Course and enjoys views across the parkland. Read reviews and details of Ballumbie Rise, DD4
Situated in the seaside town of Arbroath, Monarchs Rise is a community of 3, 4 & 5 bedroom family homes. These new homes have been created to meet the changing needs and changing lifestyles of families today. Read reviews and details of Monarchs Rise, DD11
Situated within the village of Milltimber in the Royal Deeside Corridor, Oldfold Village was developed by CALA Homes. The development comprises of a range of 3, 4 and 5 bedroom luxury homes and offers an exciting new perspective on how family life could be. Read reviews and details of Oldfold Village, AB13
Salamander Street by Hillcrest sits in an upcoming area of Edinburgh. The development is 6 storeys high and provides 145 units. In addition there is a range of 1,2, 3 ,4 bed flats and maisonettes. As well as a verity of apartments, residents benefit from a basement carpark. The development was funded as part of […] Read reviews and details of Salamander Street, EH6
Waterfront Plaza, by CALA Homes, comprises of a collection of 1, 2 & 3 bedroom apartments, and 4 bedroom townhouses. Situated along the Leith waterfront, the development has easy access to the cinema, gym, shops, cafes, coffee shops, Michelin starred restaurants, fresh seafood eateries, stylish cocktail bars and much more. Read reviews and details of Waterfront Plaza, EH6
Each home at Pentland Reach has been designed with modern living in mind. Located within walking distance of Biggar, the town has excellent commute times to Edinburgh and Glasgow. Read reviews and details of Pentland Reach, ML12
There are many things that Scotland is famous for, but some of the most well-known include its stunning landscape, rich history, and delicious whisky. Scotland is an incredibly diverse country with something to offer everyone, from its dramatic mountain ranges and lochs to the vibrant cities of Glasgow and Edinburgh. Whatever your interests may be, you can find something to enjoy in Scotland.
One of the most popular activities in Scotland is hiking. With so much beautiful scenery to explore, it’s no wonder that hikers come from all over the world to experience Scotland’s trails. If you’re looking for a more challenging hike, there are plenty of options available in the Scottish Highlands. Or if you prefer a more leisurely stroll, there are plenty of lower-altitude trails as well.
Another great way to explore Scotland is by bike. There are miles and miles of dedicated cycle paths throughout the country, so you can find a route that suits your level of fitness and cycling experience. And when you’re not cycling, you can enjoy the many beautiful views that Scotland has to offer.
If you’re looking for a more urban experience, Glasgow and Edinburgh both have plenty to offer. From world-renowned museums like the National Gallery of Scotland and the Museum of Modern Art to trendy restaurants and lively nightlife, there’s something for everyone in these two cities.
So whatever your interests may be, Scotland is definitely a destination worth exploring.
Why live in Scotland?
There are plenty of reasons why someone might choose to live in Scotland. For one, the scenery is absolutely beautiful. The rolling hills, lochs (lakes), and forests make for a stunning landscape.
Additionally, there’s a lot of history and culture in Scotland. From the famous Edinburgh Castle to the charming villages dotting the countryside, there’s always something new to explore.
Of course, one of the biggest draws of living in Scotland is the weather. The climate is milder than in other parts of the UK, making it a great place to live year-round.
And if you love outdoor activities, you’ll be spoiled for choice in Scotland. There are plenty of hiking trails, cycling routes, and skiing areas to keep you busy.
So if you’re considering a move to Scotland, I encourage you to take a closer look. You might just find that this is the perfect place for you.
Is Scotland an expensive place to live?
The cost of living in Scotland is often cited as one of the main reasons people choose to move away from the country. The average rent for a one-bedroom flat in Edinburgh, for example, is more than £1,000 per month, and a pint of beer can set you back up to £5.
However, it’s important to remember that the cost of living varies depending on where in Scotland you live. In Inverness or Aberdeen, for example, rents are much lower than they are in Glasgow or Edinburgh. And while prices for essentials like food and petrol are generally higher in Scotland than they are elsewhere in the UK, salaries tend to be higher too.
If this has put you in mind to explore Scotland further, click on the area guide link below. This will give you more information on the key areas, attractions, schooling and other important factors that make living in Scotland appealing. There are also details of dozens developments offering new homes in Scotland, with constantly updating review scores and comments.
Boasting some of the highest scores for standards of living in the UK, Scotland is a country of extraordinary natural beauty. Add to that its friendly, cultured cities and a rich history stretching back for centuries, and you have a location that offers something Read more about Scotland
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