A ripple effect is currently making its way through the Scottish housing market, according to new research.

In a review of year-on-year statistics, J&E Shepherd Chartered Surveyors has found that towns within Scotland's commuter belt have been the target of increased housing market activity.

Scottish cities have seen activity stabilise over the last year, but commuter towns such as Dunfermline, East Kilbride and Paisley have seen high activity levels as more homebuyers choose affordable properties a little distance out of Scotland's urban centres.

"This suggests that rising numbers of homebuyers are seeking to gain more property for their money by purchasing homes situated within commuting distance of cities, creating a ripple effect in market activity emanating outwards from city centres," outlined Ian Cameron, managing partner of the firm.

Those looking to buy a house in Scotland may also welcome details confirmed by Mr Cameron that the removal of bridge tolls will stimulate markets in south and north Fife.

In other news that may be of interest to people looking to buy a house in Scotland, director of the Royal Insitution of Chartered Surveyors Scotland Graeme Hartley has recently noted that the Scottish property sector is "surviving the credit crunch".