Central Scotland new Homes

Figures favour Scottish market

Thu, 12 Jun 2008 00:00:00 +0100

The release of figures from the Government confirms the resilience of the Scottish house market. The Communities and Local Government department have issued its house price index for the year to April 2008 and they show annual house price growth at 7.7% in Scotland to be the highest for any...

The 100% Mortgage is back!

Fri, 30 May 2008 00:00:00 +0100

Slightly better news for hard pressed buyers is the return of that endangered and maybe even thought to be extinct animal - the 100% mortgage. The Bank of Ireland have stepped back into the market with a 100% loan product. Sandy McFarlane - long time mortgage advisor at Caesar and...

Central Scotland development in Kilmarnock

Fri, 09 May 2008 00:00:00 +0100

Househunters looking to buy a house in central Scotland may be interested to learn of a new Charles Church show home that has recently opened in Kilmarnock.

The interior design of the home has a sophisticated air, according to the housebuilder, and is perfect for families.

A good-sized kitchen and dining area...

The Laurels apartments 'under development'

Thu, 01 May 2008 00:00:00 +0100

Scottish first-time buyers looking to buy a house in central Scotland may be interested in a new Barratt Homes development.

Luxury apartments at The Laurels, a Barratt development in the making in Rutherglen near Glasgow, are available with the added incentive of a Head Start package from the company.

The package, designed...

Raploch to see further regeneration

Wed, 23 Apr 2008 00:00:00 +0100

People looking to buy a house in central Scotland may be interested to know that Raploch is set to embark on a new regeneration project.

The Raploch Urban Regeneration Company (URC) is looking to recruit a board of directors to oversee the future of the project, according to onrec.com.

Already, the scheme...

Stirling Bridge properties made available

Mon, 21 Apr 2008 00:00:00 +0100

Househunters looking to buy a house in central Scotland may be interested in a new range of properties available at Stirling Bridge.

Contemporary one and two-bedroom apartments, as well as two and three-bedroom semi-detached homes and four-bedroom townhouses, have been made available through collaboration between George Wimpey and Cruden Homes.

Built in...

Dalkeith development 'may be perfect for first-time buyers'

Tue, 15 Apr 2008 00:00:00 +0100

Househunters looking to buy a house in central Scotland may be interested in some two-bedroom apartments currently on offer in Dalkeith.

A housing development from George Wimpey named Wester Meadow may appeal to Scottish first-time buyers and young professionals, the firm asserts.

In addition, the development houses two, three, four and five-bedroom...

NAEA calls for further action over house prices

Fri, 11 Apr 2008 00:00:00 +0100

Househunters looking to buy a house in central Scotland and elsewhere in the UK may be relieved by the interest rate cut decided upon by the Bank of England this week, it has been claimed.

The National Association of Estate Agents (NAEA) has commented on the monetary policy committee's decision to...

Dunfermline to see new £27m housing project

Tue, 25 Mar 2008 00:00:00 +0000

Househunters considering moving to central Scotland may be interested in a new development in Dunfermline.

In a project costing £27 million, 154 new homes are to be built at Masterton Grange in a joint venture between Scottish housebuilders.

Gladedale and Strathclyde Homes are combining to create a solution to Dunfermline's housing needs,...

New homes 'can save time, energy and cash'

Thu, 20 Mar 2008 00:00:00 +0000

Purchasing a new home can provide big savings to both property owners and the environment, it has been stated.

Housing developer Redrow Homes explains that it may be a safer and more convenient investment than renovating an older property.

"Whilst at first glance a second hand home might appear to be cheaper,...

Scotland house prices 'surge'

Tue, 11 Mar 2008 00:00:00 +0000

The number of chartered surveyors reporting a rise in house prices in Scotland increased from seven to 25 per cent, according to the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (Rics).

Rics suggests that while monthly data can be volatile, this healthy trend in the housing market is "broadly consistent" with the country's...

Concerns over "commoditisation of housing" raised

Mon, 03 Mar 2008 00:00:00 +0000

Concerns have been raised by the National Landlords Association (NLA) over proposals within the UK's property markets that it fears could result in the "commoditisation of housing".

The NLA has asserted that bigger does not always mean better in response to a report from the British Property Federation (BBF) that...

House price inflation drops

Fri, 29 Feb 2008 00:00:00 +0000

The rate of house price growth in the UK has seen a fall in the last month, new figures have shown.

Price inflation slowed from 4.2 per cent in February last year to 2.7 per cent this month, the latest house price index from Nationwide indicates.

Overall, property prices fell by 0.5...

Interest in property market remains despite tremors

Thu, 28 Feb 2008 00:00:00 +0000

Interest in the property market has remained strong despite some of the "tremors" that have hit the housing sector in recent months, according to a new report.

Figures collected by HotProperty.co.uk have shown that almost 44 per cent of people who have been considering making a property purchase have not...

Slow start to the year for new homes

Wed, 27 Feb 2008 00:00:00 +0000

The average price of new homes has had a slow start to the new year, according to figures from SmartNewHomes.com.

According to the website's New Homes Index & Migration Monitor, the average UK property came with a price tag of £258,712 last month.

January prices of new homes were down 0.5 per...

Atrium to create 35 new homes in Glasgow

Tue, 26 Feb 2008 00:00:00 +0000

Consumers looking to buy a home in Glasgow could be interested to hear that Atrium is to create some 35 new apartments in the city.

According to the Sunday Mail, the two-bedroom flats will be created on Falkirk Road in Bonnybridge, overlooking the Forth and Clyde Canal.

Prices start at £124,000 for...

New Dunfermline apartments released

Tue, 26 Feb 2008 00:00:00 +0000

A variety of newly-built apartments in Dumfermline have been made available by the construction group George Wimpey, it has been announced.

The flats within the Pilmuir Place have gone on sale at prices starting from just under £150,000 and it anticipated that first-time buyers and young professionals will be among...

Mortgage lending rose in January

Thu, 21 Feb 2008 00:00:00 +0000

Mortgage lending rose by a total of 11 per cent in January, according to figures from the Council of Mortgage Lenders (CML).

Data from the organisation indicates that lending increased to £26.5 billion from £23.9 billion in December 2007.

Typically, lending is lower in January than in the preceding month, the council...

Harbour homes debut in Fife

Wed, 20 Feb 2008 00:00:00 +0000

A range of properties have been made available at homebuilder George Wimpey's Fife development Masterton Lea.

Providing views over the Forth Bridges, the development offers potential buyers a mix of 101 family homes.

A pair of showhomes have just been opened to give consumers an idea of what to expect from life...

Properties available in Blackridge

Tue, 19 Feb 2008 00:00:00 +0000

A range of new homes in the town of Blackridge may be ideal for those looking to buy in the area following an announcement from George Wimpey today.

The housebuilder said it has recently seen interest from local families who want to experience the modern and contemporary style of the properties...

New townhouses launched at Eskbank

Mon, 18 Feb 2008 00:00:00 +0000

A range of new townhouse have been built and made available for purchase by the George Wimpey development company in the Eskbank area of east Scotland, it has been announced.

For anyone looking to buy a house in Scotland with a growing family, the St David Gardens development offers designs...

Scottish housing market 'sees ripple effect'

Fri, 15 Feb 2008 00:00:00 +0000

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...

Waterside development ready for launch

Thu, 14 Feb 2008 00:00:00 +0000

A new development is to be launched in Burntisland this weekend by homebuilder Gladedale.

Half a dozen properties will be made available when the Waterside site opens, but there is scope for a further 90 houses to be built.

Families may well be tempted by the range of four and five-bedroom detached...

Properties remain at Ayrshire development

Wed, 13 Feb 2008 00:00:00 +0000

A range of three and four-bedroom properties remain on sale at homebuilder George Wimpey's Ayrshire development the Harbour despite massive interest in the site.

The firm reports that after being open for only a month, some £2 million worth of new homes have been sold at the site, but notes that...

Loved-up couples take the property plunge

Tue, 12 Feb 2008 00:00:00 +0000

More couples are opting to purchase their first home together rather than as separate buyers, new research has revealed.

According to Charcol.co.uk, single first-time buyers (FTBs) usually outnumber those getting on the property ladder as a couple, but last year saw this balance shift.

In 2006, joint buyers constituted 45 per cent...

"Perfect views" at Tullibody development

Mon, 11 Feb 2008 00:00:00 +0000

Being able to enjoy the beauty of nature from her dining room is just one of the reasons why one George Wimpey sales executive is singing the praises of her home in Ochil View.

Janet Smith snapped up a three-bedroom semi-detached home in the George Wimpey development in Tullibody last year...

Scottish property market 'better than London'

Fri, 08 Feb 2008 00:00:00 +0000

The property market in Scotland is performing better than London's, according to figures from the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (Rics).

Data from Rics suggests that chartered surveyors in the English capital are "overwhelmingly" witnessing a drop in the property market, while north of the border house prices are by and...

Falkirk development launches new apartments

Thu, 07 Feb 2008 00:00:00 +0000

Homebuilder Redrow recently announced the launch of new properties at its Lockkeeper's Wynd development in Falkirk.

The new two-bedroom apartments are priced from £119,995 and the developer states that they are expected to attract a great deal of interest.

Sales director for Redrow Scotland Diana Newton notes that the site has already...

New showhome unveiled in Eskbank

Wed, 06 Feb 2008 00:00:00 +0000

A new four-bedroom showhome has been unveiled by housebuilder George Wimpey at a development in Eskbank.

The St David's Gardens site boasts a range of 80 properties with a choice of 20 different house styles including detached and semi-detached homes, apartments and townhouses.

Prices currently start at £173,000 for a two-bedroom apartment...

New homes on sale in Burntisland

Tue, 05 Feb 2008 00:00:00 +0000

Homebuilder George Wimpey has announced that the first homes in the second phase of the Inches development in Burntisland have gone on sale.

A total of 96 properties are available at the site across a range of designs, including three and four-bedroom detached homes and four-bedroom townhouses.

Karen Armstrong, sales and...

New development launched near Edinburgh

Fri, 01 Feb 2008 00:00:00 +0000

Homebuilder Applecross has announced the launch of a new development near Edinburgh.

Located nine miles south of the Scottish capital, the Eskbridge site comprises 77 properties across a range of different house types which serve to create a peaceful environment with a sense of community, the firm states.

These include terraced, detached...

'Dream Deals' on Scottish properties

Tue, 29 Jan 2008 00:00:00 +0000

Homebuilder Barratt has announced a number of incentives for buyers at a number of its developments in the central Scotland region.

The firm's Ashdale development in Kilmarnock offers a three-bedroom terraced townhouse from £185,000 and a four-bedroom detached villa with a garage from £196,995.

Meanwhile, the Grangewood development in Kilwinning provides two-bedroom...

Live free for a year, says Persimmon

Mon, 28 Jan 2008 00:00:00 +0000

Consumers looking to purchase a property in Scotland have been given the opportunity to live free for a year.

Homebuilder Persimmon is offering buyers in the region the chance to have their mortgage repayments, council tax, home insurance premiums and utility bills for 12 months.

Ingrid Gahagan, sales director for the firm,...

Scotland bucks construction trend

Fri, 25 Jan 2008 00:00:00 +0000

Scottish construction companies are bucking a trend of decreasing demand for their services seen in other parts of the UK, according to recent research.

The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (Rics) reports that the workloads of construction businesses operating in Scotland have been growing rapidly in each of the past eight...

Intervention on new homes 'positive'

Thu, 24 Jan 2008 00:00:00 +0000

Governmental intervention in the debate regarding new homes last year offered encouragement to the construction industry, according to the National Self Build & Renovation Centre.

Tim Doherty, managing director at the organisation, stated in recent days that new goals for carbon neutrality, relaxations in domestic planning regulations and defined annual targets...

Kilmarnock development opens

Wed, 23 Jan 2008 00:00:00 +0000

Homebuilder George Wimpey has made available the first homes on its Dunsmuir Park development in Kilmarnock.

The firm announces today that the site features a range of three and four-bedroom properties, with prices beginning at £145,000 for a three-bedroom Lewis style house.

Michelle Logie, sales and marketing director for George Wimpey West...

Cashback offered to Glasgow buyers

Tue, 22 Jan 2008 00:00:00 +0000

Consumers thinking of buying a property in Glasgow could benefit from an additional £500 in their bank accounts every month for a year, Tulloch has announced.

The homebuilder announced in recent days that buyers who reserve their property on two of the firm's developments by February 29th.

Also included in the incentive...

First-time buyers 'increase market share'

Mon, 21 Jan 2008 00:00:00 +0000

First-time buyers again increased their share of the property market in December 2007, according to the National Association of Estate Agents (NAEA).

A rise from 10.1 per cent in November to 13 per cent in December takes the market share for first-timers to the highest it has been since November 2006.

Due...

Gladedale Central Scotland plans 199 new-builds

Fri, 18 Jan 2008 00:00:00 +0000

Kirtkintilloch is to see 199 new properties built as part of a planned construction by Gladedale Central Scotland, it has been revealed.

The scheme is to see 186 homes and some 13 luxury apartments put in place on the former Broomhill Hospital site, reports the Kirtkintilloch Herald.

A spokesperson for East Dunbartonshire...

Move in for less than £100 at Tullibody

Thu, 17 Jan 2008 00:00:00 +0000

Homebuyers are being offered the opportunity to move in less for than £100 at a new development in Tullibody in east Scotland.

Known as Ochil View, the development is the creation of housebuilder George Wimpey which just has extended its 'Move in for £99' scheme to selected plots.

Homebuyers pay no more...

Winter warmers from Westpoint

Wed, 16 Jan 2008 00:00:00 +0000

Homebuilder Westpoint has outlined a number of new "winter warming" offers for consumers looking to invest in property in the central Scotland region.

Those who purchase a property at its Utopia development on Pollokshaws Road in Glasgow have the opportunity to enjoy up to £5,000 cashback from the firm.

And buyers who...

Average UK house price dropped, reports CLG

Tue, 15 Jan 2008 00:00:00 +0000

Average house prices in the UK stood at £218,330 in November 2007, according to the latest house price index from Communities and Local Government (CLG).

This represented a fall from the previous month's figure of £220,195.

A drop was also experienced in UK annual house price inflation, dropping to 9.5 per cent...

Base rate hold 'very disappointing'

Mon, 14 Jan 2008 00:00:00 +0000

The Bank of England's recent decision to maintain the base rate of interest at 5.5 per cent has been described as very disappointing by a spokesperson for a residential property agency.

Marc Goldberg, head of residential sales, Hamptons International, is convinced that a reduction in the base rate would have benefited...

Canny consumers 'play the property market'

Fri, 11 Jan 2008 00:00:00 +0000

Many of the UK's homeowners are adapting their mortgage arrangement in order to benefit as much as possible from the changing state of the housing market, it has been suggested.

According to a survey by the Spicerhaart Financial Services Company, there has been a "huge increase" in the number homeowners opting...

Redrow makes house price promises

Thu, 10 Jan 2008 00:00:00 +0000

House building firm Redrow has aimed to provide its customers with certainty over the investments by making them a "house price protection promise", it has emerged.

Anyone selling a Redrow home for less than they bought it within the next three years can expect the have the discrepancy refunded to within...

House prices 'increased in December'

Wed, 09 Jan 2008 00:00:00 +0000

UK house prices increased by 1.3 per cent in December, according to the Halifax house price index.

As such, at the end of 2007 the standardised average price for a property was £197,039.

The rise came after three successive monthly falls and reflected a 5.2 per cent rise on December 2006, with...

New legislation 'to deliver Scottish housing objectives'

Tue, 08 Jan 2008 00:00:00 +0000

A new planning policy released for consultation today by the Scottish Executive aims to underpin the delivery of key housing policy objectives, it has been announced.

The draft Scottish Planning Policy 3: Planning for Housing (SPP3) encourages councils to collaborate to improve the assessment and identification of requirements across housing market...

'Ideal' family development launched near Glasgow

Fri, 04 Jan 2008 00:00:00 +0000

A development that is "ideal" for families has been launched in north Lanarkshire by housebuilder Cruden Homes.

Hogganfield Manor overlooks a loch of the same name and is situated on the outskirts of Stepps, only 15 minutes drive from the centre of Glasgow.

The development comprises 59 two and three-bedroom terraced and...

Incentive on Dunfermline house from Cruden

Thu, 03 Jan 2008 00:00:00 +0000

Consumers considering moving into a property in central Scotland may be tempted by an offer by Cruden Homes, where they can move in for £99.

For a limited period of time, the buyer of one of the four-bedroom villas on its Canmore Grange development in Dunfermline can move in for the...

Scottish house values prove good showing in 2007

Mon, 24 Dec 2007 00:00:00 +0000

Scotland has seen some of the most impressive house price gains over the last year, according to new data from one financial institution.

Based on its own house price index, Halifax states that 13 of the top 20 property hotspots in terms of capital gain were either in Scotland or...

Charles Church recaps its central Scotland developments

Fri, 21 Dec 2007 00:00:00 +0000

As the end of the year approaches, homebuilder Charles Church reminds those considering purchasing a property in the central Scotland area of its numerous developments in the region.

The Saltersgate site in Lugton Brae, which is located within the former walled gardens of Dalkeith Manor House, offers "luxury" properties starting at...

Mortgage lending 'drops in November'

Thu, 20 Dec 2007 00:00:00 +0000

Gross lending fell by eight per cent from October to November, according to recent figures form the Council of Mortgage Lenders (CML).

Data from the organisation indicates that lending fell to an estimated £30.7 billion in November, down eight per cent from its figure of £33.2 billion in November 2006.

Director of...

Tulloch Homes makes five-bed villa available

Wed, 19 Dec 2007 00:00:00 +0000

A luxury villa has been released for sale by Tulloch Homes at its Parklands development in the town of Tranent, just outside Edinburgh.

The five-bedroom property includes a conservatory, utility room and large family bathroom, reports the housebuilder.

Other features include glass-panelled oak doors, a formal dining room, integrated kitchen appliances, turf...

South Lanarkshire properties made available

Tue, 18 Dec 2007 00:00:00 +0000

Homebuilder George Wimpey has announced that the second phase of properties has gone on sale at its Orchard Grove development in south Lanarkshire.

A total of 52 three-bedroom semi-detached houses are newly available on the site, with prices beginning at £148,000.

The village of Blackwood, where the homes are situated, is a...

Put down roots in Edinburgh, says Applecross

Mon, 17 Dec 2007 00:00:00 +0000

Housebuilder Applecross Homes recently announced the availability of properties on its newly-launched development on the Colinton conservation area in Edinburgh.

The Cedars comprises 22 individually designed apartments, including four penthouses, which range from two to four bedrooms.

Lianne Bootland, head of sales at Applecross, commented: "The Cedars is a unique development which...

Borrowers' circumstances 'will have great impact in 2008'

Fri, 14 Dec 2007 00:00:00 +0000

The ease with which consumers will be able to cope in 2008 will be dictated by the financial situation they are in, the Council of Mortgage Lenders (CML) said in recent days.

Head of external affairs at the CML Sue Anderson commented that the recent interest rate cut has "clearly" been...

George Wimpey launches Midlothian development

Thu, 13 Dec 2007 00:00:00 +0000

Housebuilder George Wimpey has announced the availability of the first homes on its first development in Bonnyrigg, Midlothian.

The Chesters offers 42 two and three-bedroom properties within commuting distance of Edinburgh in a range of seven different styles.

Karen Armstrong, sales and marketing director for George Wimpey East Scotland, explains that the...

Most people 'happy with their home'

Wed, 12 Dec 2007 00:00:00 +0000

The majority of people are satisfied with their new homes, according to a study commissioned by the Commission for Architecture and the Built Environment (Cabe).

Called A Sense of Place, the research was based on people in new housing developments and suggests that 91 per cent of people are satisfied with...

New development launched by Redrow

Tue, 11 Dec 2007 00:00:00 +0000

Homebuilder Redrow has announced the launch of its Riverside Point development in Braehead, which it states is a "paradise for shop-a-holics".

The site will eventually comprise 342 properties and is within walking distance of the nearby shopping and leisure centre as well as the Xscape family entertainments centre.

Homes on the development...

First homes go on sale at Glasgow development

Mon, 10 Dec 2007 00:00:00 +0000

Properties are now on sale at the Victoria Gardens development on Motherwell Street in Airdrie, Glasgow.

According to homebuilder George Wimpey, the site comprises 139 three and four-bedroom houses.

Prices start from £158,000 for a three-bedroom property in the Tiree style.

There are a total of nine styles of home available, with the...

Falkirk development launched by Charles Church

Fri, 07 Dec 2007 00:00:00 +0000

Homebuilder Charles Church has announced the launch of a new property development in Larbert, in the north of Falkirk.

Bellsdyke Meadows in Kinnaird Village comprises a number of properties, ranging from one and two-bedroom apartments to four and five-bedroom homes in the grounds of a former hospital which overlooks a golf...

Show home near Glasgow released for sale

Thu, 06 Dec 2007 00:00:00 +0000

Consumers wishing to live in a rural location, but not move too far away from the city may be tempted by Barratt's latest development in Lanarkshire.

The Rushes in Glenboig has seen 94 of its 96 properties sold, meaning that the show home has now been put up for sale.

Priced at...

Festive bonuses offered at Falkirk development

Wed, 05 Dec 2007 00:00:00 +0000

Potential first-time buyers may be tempted to purchase a home in Falkirk after a number of deals have been announced by housebuilder Charles Church.

Anyone who moves into the firm's Antonine Gardens development before Christmas has the chance to obtain a number of benefits such as free carpets and turf, paid...

Glasgow townhouse made available

Tue, 04 Dec 2007 00:00:00 +0000

Buyers looking for a low-hassle move may find that Christmas has come early with the release of a fully-furnished townhouse in Glasgow.

Located on homebuilder Redrow's Route 1 West development in Anniesland, the four-bedroom property is on the market for £325,000.

Sales director for the firm Diana Newton explains that this home...

"Affordable luxury" in Edinburgh

Mon, 03 Dec 2007 00:00:00 +0000

Homebuilder Charles Church has announced the availability of a number of properties on its De Quincey Court development in Edinburgh.

Located on the south-east side of the city, the site offers a range of house types which the firm states are "sure to attract those looking for affordable luxury".

Featured homes include...

New show home unveiled in Fife

Fri, 30 Nov 2007 00:00:00 +0000

Housebuilder Miller Homes has announced the launch of a new development in Fife.

A four-bedroom Severn showroom is now open on the firm's Leven Gait development in Kelty.

Features of the property include an African-inspired lounge with a teak fireplace, bay windows and two matching mirror arrangements as well as a spacious...

House prices fall in November, says Nationwide

Thu, 29 Nov 2007 00:00:00 +0000

House prices fell by 0.8 per cent this month, according to a recent study by a leading building society.

As such, this lowers annual house price growth down to 6.9 per cent, reports Nationwide.

Chief economist at the firm Fionnuala Earley explains that this is consistent with the prediction of house price...

Falkirk homes 'prove popular'

Tue, 27 Nov 2007 00:00:00 +0000

Housebuilder Redrow reports swift success at a development in Falkirk as over half of the properties on the site have been sold in a few weeks.

Of the 47 homes on the Lockkeepers Wynd site, 26 have already been snapped up by homebuyers.

All of the two, three and four-bedroom houses have...

New homes available on Scottish coast

Mon, 26 Nov 2007 00:00:00 +0000

Homes have gone up for sale at a new development in North Ayrshire, it has been announced.

A range of properties including 41 apartments and 31 three and four-bedroom family homes are available at the Harbour in Ardrossan, according to homebuilder George Wimpey.

The firm reports that good local infrastructure and transport...

Mortgage approvals 'lower in October'

Fri, 23 Nov 2007 00:00:00 +0000

The number of mortgage approvals, especially those for house purchases, was lower last month, according to the British Banking Association (BBA).

Recent statistics from the trade association also suggest that mortgage lending rose at a slower rate in October.

BBA statistics director David Dooks said that current levels of demand and supply...

Housing market slowdown arrives in October

Thu, 22 Nov 2007 00:00:00 +0000

A slowdown in October's housing market has been suggested in a new study by the National Association of Estate Agents (NAEA).

Following "continued uncertainty" in the current economic environment, prospective property buyers are putting their plans to purchase homes on hold.

Due to the smaller number of people wanting to buy homes,...

Mortgage lending 'on the up in October'

Wed, 21 Nov 2007 00:00:00 +0000

Mortgage lending rose from September to October, according to the Council of Mortgage Lenders (CML).

Reaching an estimated £32.4 billion, the total was up six per cent from where it stood at £30.6 billion in September, the same figure it was at in October last year.

The council stated that it expects...

Scotland's housing market 'still buoyant'

Tue, 20 Nov 2007 00:00:00 +0000

Scottish house prices continue to rise, according to the latest figures from a leading financial services provider.

According to Lloyds TSB Scotland's latest house price monitor, Edinburgh has seen a rise of 18 per cent in 2007, despite a fall in the three months to October 31st.

The capital also has the...

Joint residential venture in Edinburgh announced

Mon, 19 Nov 2007 00:00:00 +0000

Plans for a residential development in Edinburgh have been announced by homebuilders Applecross and Premier Property Group (PPG).

Construction has begun on the 23,035 sq ft site at Craighall Gardens in the Trinity area of the city, which upon completion will comprise 17 luxury properties.

The apartments will be released for sale...

UK's strongest house price for 2008 forecast for Scotland

Fri, 16 Nov 2007 00:00:00 +0000

Scotland is forecast to see the strongest house price growth next year, it has been announced.

New figures from building society Nationwide indicate that property prices in the country will rise by four per cent in comparison to other regions of the UK such as Northern Ireland where prices are expected...

Suburban city living in Dalkeith

Thu, 15 Nov 2007 00:00:00 +0000

Potential homebuyers are being offered "the best of both worlds" at a new development near Edinburgh.

The Waverley Gardens site at Dalkeith may prove ideal for those who seek a village lifestyle but do not want to be too far from the city.

Homebuilder Charles Church explains that, located just six miles...

Buying in Scotland 'remains better than renting'

Wed, 14 Nov 2007 00:00:00 +0000

It is still better to buy than to rent over a 25-year period, according to new figures from Abbey.

The mortgage provider's latest annual UK rent versus buy index suggests that while the monthly cost of renting and buying is converging, it still works out cheaper to buy a house than...

Scottish house price inflation 'falls'

Tue, 13 Nov 2007 00:00:00 +0000

Annual house price inflation fell in Scotland in September.

The house price index published by Communities and Local Government yesterday indicates that the figure fell from 13.1 per cent in August to 12.5 per cent in September.

Statistics also suggest that the average house price in September for Scotland was...

Houses planned for Edinburgh site

Mon, 12 Nov 2007 00:00:00 +0000

Edinburgh-based housebuilder Applecross plans to develop a number of homes on the Eskbank campus of Jewel and Esk Valley College.

The firm has acquired outline planning for 140 houses over more than 15 acres and as such has been named preferred bidder by the college's board of management.

Managing director of Applecross...

House prices 'fell in October'

Fri, 09 Nov 2007 00:00:00 +0000

House prices decreased by 0.5 per cent in October, according to the latest Halifax house price index.

The standardised average house price now stands at £197,248.

Chief economist at the firm Martin Ellis stated that prices in the three-month period ending in October were 0.3 per cent higher than in the...

Homebuyers 'unaware of potential flood risks'

Thu, 08 Nov 2007 00:00:00 +0000

A large number of homeowners and potential housebuyers are unaware of risks posed to them by flooding, new figures from Abbey have indicated.

Data from the home insurance provider has suggested that 39.9 million adults would be discouraged from purchasing a home if it was located in a high-risk flood area.

Over...

'Last chance' to buy at Edinburgh development

Wed, 07 Nov 2007 00:00:00 +0000

Homebuyers may need to get their skates on if they are interested in purchasing a property on a site in Edinburgh.

Cruden Homes' Genesis development, located in the Forthquarter area of Granton, currently comprises 118 new homes, but plans are in place to expand it to include 250.

Almost 90 per cent...

A one in five chance of a fall in house prices, says PwC

Tue, 06 Nov 2007 00:00:00 +0000

It has been predicted that there is a 20 per cent that house prices will fall between now and 2010.

Accountancy company PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) stated that the most likely pattern of events will be a significant slowdown in the inflation of house prices, rather than a crash.

Head of macroeconomics at PwC...

New show property unveiled in Glasgow

Fri, 02 Nov 2007 00:00:00 +0000

Housebuilder Cruden Homes has announced the launch of a new show apartment in Glasgow.

The West 11 development will comprise 76 such properties with layouts including one and two-bedroom apartments, two-bedroom duplexes and two and three-bedroom penthouses.

Prices on the properties begin at £150,000.

In preparation for the launch of the site, Cruden...

Scottish ministers announce plans to help first-time buyers

Thu, 01 Nov 2007 00:00:00 +0000

New housing plans have been announced by Scottish ministers due to the current system being "inadequate".

Deputy first minister Nicola Sturgeon noted that the current system was not meeting the needs of the country and the number of new homes being created must be increased.

"The current rate of new house building...

October sees strong house price increase

Wed, 31 Oct 2007 00:00:00 +0000

House prices rose "strongly" this month, new research has indicated.

The latest house price report from Nationwide Building Society has suggested that the average price of a house in the UK now stands at some £186,044, a 1.1 per cent increase on September.

Nationwide's chief economist Fionnuala Earley commented that it would...

Transformation of the housing market

Mon, 29 Oct 2007 00:00:00 +0000

Housebuilder David Wilson Homes has remarked on a number of changes in the housing sector.

Brand manager for the firm Ian Webb noted that with the increasing prevalence of gap years, downsizing and career changes, the property market has changed to reflect the changes in consumers' lifestyles.

"No longer can you look...

Edinburgh development plans unveiled

Fri, 26 Oct 2007 00:00:00 +0100

Two three-bedroom detached homes are to be created in Edinburgh, it has been announced.

Homebuilder Alliance Developments has stated that the properties will be created in Kirkliston, near South Queensferry.

Two stone cottages in the area will be turned into brand new homes, to be called Smiddy and Anvil Cottages.

Each property...

Who're you gonna call? Scottish first-time buyers!

Thu, 25 Oct 2007 00:00:00 +0100

Brave Scottish first-time buyers are not willing to let a ghostly presence put them off purchasing their ideal property, new research has suggested.

Recent research carried out by Clydesdale Bank has suggested that half of first-time buyers would be more inclined to view a potentially haunted property than one with no...

Edinburgh developments made available by Barratt

Wed, 24 Oct 2007 00:00:00 +0100

Housebuilder Barratt has recently announced the launch of a new development in Edinburgh.

Called Q, the site is located at Western Harbour and comprises a range of two, three and four-bedroom properties with prices beginning at £170,495.

Sales director with Barratt Angela McKimmie commented: "Helping the first-time buyer is clearly one of...

Early Christmas presents near Penicuik

Tue, 23 Oct 2007 00:00:00 +0100

Construction firm Applecross is offering a number of 'gifts' on properties at a development near Penicuik, consumers considering buying a new home in Scotland may be interested to learn.

The company's Eskbridge development will see a number of homes become ready for occupation between now and mid-December and the homebuilder is...

Show apartment released for sale in Glasgow

Mon, 22 Oct 2007 00:00:00 +0100

Housebuilder Tulloch homes has made available a fully-furnished apartment on a Glasgow development.

The three-bedroom apartment is located on the firm's Greenbank Gate site in Newlands and is being sold as seen for £211,000.

Features of the property include an open-plan living area, en suite master bedroom and "striking" wall art in...

Scotland 'still most affordable region in the UK'

Fri, 19 Oct 2007 00:00:00 +0100

Scotland's house price inflation now stands at 14.2 per cent, above the UK average of 10.7 per cent, according to new figures from the Bank of Scotland.

The bank's latest quarterly Scottish house price index also indicated that the average price of a house in the country currently stands at £141,158,...

Mortgage lending falls by 12% in September

Thu, 18 Oct 2007 00:00:00 +0100

Mortgage lending fell by nearly 12 per cent in September in comparison with August, according to the Council of Mortgage Lenders (CML).

In news that may interest those considering purchasing a home in the central Scotland region, the CML reports that lending fell to an estimated £30 billion last month, but...

Scotland construction workloads 'fastest expanding in UK'

Tue, 16 Oct 2007 00:00:00 +0100

For the second consecutive quarter, Scotland has seen the fastest expansion in workloads of any region in the UK, according new research by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (Rics).

The Rics construction market survey suggests that workload growth in the private housing sector picked up sharply, in news that may...

Two new developments launched near Glasgow

Mon, 15 Oct 2007 00:00:00 +0100

Housebuilder Stewart Milne Homes has launched two new developments near Glasgow, with a combined total of 260 homes, it has been announced.

Ardgowan Rise is situated on an elevated countryside site in the village of Inverkip, yet despite the seemingly rural location a commute into Glasgow "is made easy" due to...

Good quality of life 'tempts people to buy in Scotland'

Fri, 12 Oct 2007 00:00:00 +0100

A high quality of life and a strong business sector have been identified as reasons people move to - and buy property in - Scotland, it has been asserted.

James Whiston, director of sales at property and estate agency firm Rettie & Co stated that the recent high performance of "big...

House price confidence weakens, says Rics

Thu, 11 Oct 2007 00:00:00 +0100

New buyer enquiries in the housing market have declined for the tenth consecutive month and at the fastest rate since March 2003, according to new research by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (Rics).

However, the institution stated that strongest price growth in the UK took place in Scotland, while other...

Darling 'misses opportunity' to help first-time buyers

Wed, 10 Oct 2007 00:00:00 +0100

By choosing not to raise the threshold for stamp duty from its present level, Alistair Darling missed an opportunity to help first-time buyers, it has been asserted.

Independent mortgage firm John Charcol stated that in his last Budget as chancellor, Gordon Brown held out no promise of moves to make the...

First-time buyers 'risk being trapped in their own homes'

Mon, 08 Oct 2007 00:00:00 +0100

First-time buyers who have taken out a 100 per cent mortgage recently could be pushed into negative equity if house prices dip, according to the Motley Fool.

According to the finance site, a drop in house prices may result in buyers in such financial circumstances being unable to sell as the...

'Some 15% of first-time buyers' priced out of the market

Fri, 05 Oct 2007 00:00:00 +0100

New research indicates that some 15.8 per cent of young, working households in Scotland are priced out of the property market.

The study, called Can't Buy: Can Rent - the affordability of private housing in Great Britain, was compiled for property data group Hometrack and suggests that high house prices and...

CML responds to Bank of England's decision to maintain interest rates

Thu, 04 Oct 2007 00:00:00 +0100

The Council of Mortgage Lenders (CML) has commented on the Bank of England's announcement today that the bank rate will remain at 5.75 per cent.

In response to the monetary policy committee's decision to maintain the interest rate, CML director general Michael Coogan stated that the council did not expect a...

New zero-carbon homes 'get tax relief'

Tue, 02 Oct 2007 00:00:00 +0100

New builds in the UK may be increasingly environmentally-friendly following new legislation from the government, it has been reported.

Buyers of new zero-carbon homes will now qualify for tax relief on stamp duty, according to the Chartered Institute of Builders (CIOB).

In news that may be of interest to first-time buyers, the...

First-time buyers 'only want to travel for 90 minutes'

Mon, 01 Oct 2007 00:00:00 +0100

First-time buyers in Scotland say they would travel no longer than 45 minutes each way to work, according to new research by Abbey mortgages.

This is two minutes longer than the UK average of 43 minutes each way.

However, some 15 per cent of UK first-time buyers stated they would travel up...

Applecross releases apartment at Barnton Avenue

Fri, 28 Sep 2007 00:00:00 +0100

The one remaining garden apartment at its Barnton Avenue development has been released by homebuilder Applecross.

The "spacious" four-bedroom apartment represents one of only nine such properties on the development and is priced at £875,000.

Features of the residence's garden include views of the Royal Burgess Golf Course and two patios and...

Buried costs of energy supply in UK new builds

Thu, 27 Sep 2007 00:00:00 +0100

Consumers living in some new-build properties are paying some £15 million in additional charges each year without their knowledge, according to an independent price comparison site.

Research by SimplySwitch suggests that some 56 per cent of new property dwellers in the UK are not aware of higher charges that are associated...

"Substantial advances" in new home energy efficiency

Wed, 26 Sep 2007 00:00:00 +0100

New houses in Scotland and the rest of the UK have made "substantial advances" in their energy efficiency over the last ten or 20 years, it has been asserted.

Editor of The ENDS Report - a leading monthly journal for UK environmental business and policy - Nicholas Schoon, stated that due...

Manorlane to create "high-specification" homes near Glasgow

Tue, 25 Sep 2007 00:00:00 +0100

Two new developments will see the creation of a selection of "high-specification" four, five and six-bedroom homes south-west of Glasgow, homebuilder Manorlane has announced.

Located at Greenlaw in Newton Mearns, around seven miles south-west of Glasgow city centre, the 30-acre site will add some 170 houses to the Scottish developer's...

Mortgages for over 100% of property value are "a good product" for young professionals

Mon, 24 Sep 2007 00:00:00 +0100

Mortgages for over 100% of property value are "a good product" for young professionals

Mortgages for more than 100 per cent of the value of a property are not for everyone, but can be "a good product" for young professionals, a firm of independent financial advisors said today.

As young professionals...

"Superb autumn savings" from Tulloch

Fri, 21 Sep 2007 00:00:00 +0100

Homebuyers can be enjoying a new house in Scotland by Christmas - as well as saving thousands of pounds - on a Tulloch development, according to the homebuilder.

"Generous incentives" are being offered on a number of two and three-bedroom apartments, three and four-bedroom family homes and luxury five-bedroom villas in...

New homes provision for first-time buyers 'should embrace existing housing'

Thu, 20 Sep 2007 00:00:00 +0100

There are already many thousands of homes throughout the UK that could provide a high standard of sustainable accommodation for first-time buyers that are standing empty, according to the National Home Improvement Council (NHIC).

According to the Chartered Institute of Builders, the NHIC welcomed Yvette Cooper's announced £500 million package to...

Minister calls for Scottish homes 'to be green'

Wed, 19 Sep 2007 00:00:00 +0100

A panel of experts met in Edinburgh yesterday to discuss energy efficiency standards in the housing sector, it has been reported.

Specialists from across Scotland, Austria, Norway and Denmark met at the conference to recommend measures to reduce the environmental impact of Scottish homes and other buildings.

Transport and climate change minister...

Rok 'hopes to be involved' in all new Edinburgh builds

Tue, 18 Sep 2007 00:00:00 +0100

Construction and property development firm Rok is hoping to be involved in any future homebuilding in Edinburgh, it has been reported.

In news that may be of interest to those looking to purchase a new property in the region, the Scotsman reports that since the company opened an office in the...

New Falkirk development launched by Charles Church

Mon, 17 Sep 2007 00:00:00 +0100

A new development of 32 houses has been launched by homebuilder Charles Church in Falkirk.

Surrounded by picturesque landscapes, Antonine Gardens includes a selection of three and four-bedroom properties in some six different styles, according to the company.

Named after the Antonine Wall, a 37-mile-long structure built by the Roman Empire...

"Stunning" Edinburgh development by J Smart

Fri, 14 Sep 2007 00:00:00 +0100

Homebuilder J Smart has unveiled its Stillhouse apartment site in Edinburgh, describing the location as "your home in the city".

Located in Dalry, the development comprising one, two and three-bedroom apartments is within easy walking distance of both George and Princes Streets.

Stillhouse has been awarded a ten-year National House Building Council...

House prices fall for first time since 2005

Thu, 13 Sep 2007 00:00:00 +0100

UK house prices have fallen for the first time since October 2005, according to new research by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (Rics).

In news that may be of interest to those seeking to purchase a new home, the number of estate agents reporting price declines outnumbered those who informed...

Sealed bids must stop, says one MSP

Wed, 12 Sep 2007 00:00:00 +0100

The use of secret bids in the purchase of homes in Scotland must be ended, according to one MSP.

Dr Bill Wilson, SNP MSP for the west of Scotland, has claimed that the use of sealed bids to determine a successful buyer for a property is extremely nerve-racking for customers and...

First-time buyers 'receive monetary help from grandparents'

Tue, 11 Sep 2007 00:00:00 +0100

Some 31 per cent of grandparents in Britain provide financial assistance to their grandchildren to allow them to get on the first rung of the property ladder, recent research has indicated.

Results of a study by CreditExpert suggest that 11 per cent of British grannies and granddads are concerned with their...

Show home opens in College Gait development

Mon, 10 Sep 2007 00:00:00 +0100

Tulloch Homes has announced the opening of a new show home at their College Gait development.

Located in the Oakbank area of Perth, the villa is described by the homebuilder as "a luxury home" which comprises five double bedrooms, high-specification finishes and double garage.

Split-level in design, the Selkirk-style home also includes...

First-timers 'returning to the property market'

Fri, 07 Sep 2007 00:00:00 +0100

First-time buyers are likely to be comforted by a survey released today, showing first-timers returning to the property market as a slowdown in house prices growth begins to boost confidence.

The monthly survey, conducted by Spicerhaart Financial Services, showed that the number of first-time buyers rose to the highest level...

Trust your homebuilder, says Dickie Homes

Thu, 06 Sep 2007 00:00:00 +0100

Homebuilder Dickie Homes has stated that trust plays a major part in purchasing a new house in central Scotland and is a factor that is often overlooked.

The firm states that it is vitally important for buyers to trust builders and do not purchase homes too quickly out of fear of...

UK Housing market access 350 per cent worse than in 1996

Wed, 05 Sep 2007 00:00:00 +0100

The cost of becoming a home buyer in the UK worsened by some 350 per cent since 1996, according to a study by the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (Rics).

An accessibility index developed by Rics indicated that the 350 per cent mark was reached following an 8.4 per cent...

2008 will see 'stronger Scottish economic growth'

Tue, 04 Sep 2007 00:00:00 +0100

Research by the Bank of Scotland index of leading economic indicators suggests that economic growth in Scotland is expected pick up next year.

In news that may be of interest to those seeking to purchase a new home in the region, the data indicates that growth will rise above its long-term...

"Striking" Tulloch development at Greenbank Gate

Mon, 03 Sep 2007 00:00:00 +0100

A new show apartment has been opened at Netherauldhouse Road's Greenbank Gate development in Glasgow.

Encompassing 18 apartments with either two or three-bedroom options, the development is located in the Newlands area of the city. The show apartment includes an en suite master bedroom, open-plan living spaces and asymmetric balconies.

Prices on...

Applecross announced new terrace development near Penicuik

Fri, 31 Aug 2007 00:00:00 +0100

A new development of terraced properties overlooking the River Esk at Eskbridge, near Penicuik has been announced by homebuilder Applecross.

The 77-property development consists of three blocks of six terraced rows of Thirlstane homes.

Thirlstane houses include a master bedroom with en suite facilities, family bathroom and split-level landscaped garden accessible through...

Banks' mortgage rules 'to be intensified'

Thu, 30 Aug 2007 00:00:00 +0100

Homebuyers seeking to obtain mortgages will face strict new rules from banks from today following unrest in the stock-market.

Banks that make up 12 per cent of Scotland's mortgage market are withdrawing discount offers and raising charges to consumers with credit ratings that are not perfect.

In news that may be of...

Construction begins on new Lanarkshire development

Wed, 29 Aug 2007 00:00:00 +0100

Tulloch Homes is beginning work on a new development in Lanarkshire comprising 33 apartments in Bent Road, Hamilton.

Based in Inverness and Glasgow, developer Tulloch Homes is beginning construction on the former hockey pitch at Hamilton rugby club close to existing sandstone villas in the town centre.

Due to be called Maple...

Taylor Wimpey 'to build one in ten new homes in Scotland'

Fri, 24 Aug 2007 00:00:00 +0100

One in every ten new private homes in Scotland will be built by Taylor Wimpey, following the formation of the company through the merger of Taylor Woodrow and George Wimpey.

The merger took place in July and the newly-formed firm will keep both the Bryant Homes and George Wimpey brands that...

'Seamless style' on offer at Stoneycroft

Thu, 23 Aug 2007 00:00:00 +0100

Buyers who want an extra touch of class to grace their new properties might like to consider heading to Barratt's Stoneycroft development in west Scotland this weekend, the firm has announced.

Interior designer Linda Macguire is set to be on the case on August 25th and 26th to help those who...

Scotland 'to adopt Scandinavian building standards'

Tue, 21 Aug 2007 00:00:00 +0100

A panel of building and design experts from across Scotland, Norway, Denmark and Austria has been established to make recommendations for improving the energy-efficiency of houses in Scotland

Scottish parliament climate change minister Stewart Stevenson has stated that he wants to see all new-build houses in Scotland meeting the same regulations...

New builds on existing Falkirk development

Mon, 20 Aug 2007 00:00:00 +0100

Glasgow and Inverness-based homebuilder Tulloch is releasing three new plots on the existing site at Larbert, near Falkirk.

Torwood Gardens, a semi-rural location in the heart of central Scotland, will see the development of one four-bedroom and two five-bedroomed villas towards the rear of the site.

Commenting on the development, Tulloch sales...

Strong house price increases for university towns

Fri, 17 Aug 2007 00:00:00 +0100

Some 20 university towns across the UK have noted a 20 per cent or more increase in house prices over the past 12 months, close to double the nationwide increse of 11 per cent, according to new data from Halifax Estate Agents.

Four of the ten best performing university towns and...

Signs of slowing in Scottish property market, says Lloyds TSB

Thu, 16 Aug 2007 00:00:00 +0100

The price of houses throughout Scotland continues to increase, but new figures from Lloyds TSB Scotland house price monitor indicate a mixed picture across the country.

Its research indicates that in the three months to the end of July 2007, the price of the average domestic property in Scotland was £162,779,...

Use of brownfield sites is "crucial" for development

Wed, 15 Aug 2007 00:00:00 +0100

The use of brownfield sites for development, including the construction of new homes, has been identified as "crucial" by a regeneration agency.

A plan by National brownfield advisor Professor Paul Syms states: "The National Brownfield Strategy will encourage widespread engagement in the process of returning brownfield land to beneficial use"...

Scottish house price inflation remains constant

Tue, 14 Aug 2007 00:00:00 +0100

Annual house price inflation in Scotland remained constant at 15.6 per cent in May and June in comparison to fluctuations across the rest of the UK, in news likely to be welcomed by first-time buyers looking to buy a new home.

According to the Communities and Local Government house price...

Scottish house price inflation remains constant

Tue, 14 Aug 2007 00:00:00 +0100

Last chance to buy at Edinburgh "Sapphire Point" development

Mon, 13 Aug 2007 00:00:00 +0100

The remaining six apartments have been put up for sale on the development "Sapphire Point" situated on Lochend Road in Edinburgh.

The development, provided by Barratt East Scotland has been made popular through interest from both first and second-time buyers.

Each of the remaining six apartments, all located on the top...

Barratt starts work on Glasgow West End site

Fri, 10 Aug 2007 00:00:00 +0100

Construction has begun on Western Gate, Barratt West Scotland's newest development.

Interest in the luxury two and three-bedroom apartments being built on the site - located off Great Western Road at Anniesland in Glasgow - has been high, according to Barratt. The former church hall site will boast 40 homes...

Construction begins on new development near Glasgow

Thu, 09 Aug 2007 00:00:00 +0100

Barratt Homes has announced that construction work has begun on its Laurels development in Rutherglen, just outside Glasgow city centre.

The development, located a few minutes walk from Rutherglen high street and the train station, has generated much interest from local residents and will provide homes for first-time buyers in...

Conservation area development reports swift success

Wed, 08 Aug 2007 00:00:00 +0100

Rapid success at the launch of a development in The Grange conservation area in Edinburgh has been reported by Applecross.

The property developer stated that three of the nine properties released earlier this month were sold on the first day and that interest in the site is "at its peak".

Lianne Bootland,...

Conservation area development reports swift success

Wed, 08 Aug 2007 00:00:00 +0100

New Midlothian homes to cut greenhouse gases

Tue, 07 Aug 2007 00:00:00 +0100

Midlothian council is requiring property developers to design new buildings so that associated carbon dioxide emissions are reduced beyond national requirements.

The new guidelines require the majority of new buildings to incorporate microgeneration technology such as microturbines and solar panels.

Midlothian cabinet member for strategic services Russell Imrie commented: "The council is...

New Midlothian homes to cut greenhouse gases

Tue, 07 Aug 2007 00:00:00 +0100

New boss of Glasgow Housing Association to provide quality housing communities

Mon, 06 Aug 2007 00:00:00 +0100

Glasgow Housing Association (GHA)'s new boss has said she wants to place the company at the centre of the city's ambitious regeneration plans and create well-built, sustainable communities.

Taroub Zahran said that providing it was what tenants and homeowners wanted and it was fiscally achievable it would be possible to...

Price growth continues below 1%

Fri, 03 Aug 2007 00:00:00 +0100

The rate of house price growth across the UK remained below one per cent in July, according to new figures from Halifax.

Publishing its monthly house price index, the firm states that growth is slowing, with the quarterly increase between April and July standing at 1.3 per cent - the smallest...

Changes to MEAFs examined

Wed, 01 Aug 2007 00:00:00 +0100

The UK's Financial Services Authority (FSA) has published a new update on changes to mortgage exit administration fees (MEAFs) in Britain.

Those looking to purchase a new home may be interested to read that a statement of good practice was issued by the FSA in January this year and mortgage lenders...

Redrow gains new land director

Tue, 31 Jul 2007 00:00:00 +0100

A housebuilding firm operating in central Scotland has announced the appointment of a new land director who will help the company push forward their developments in the region.

Having taken both architecture and urban and regional planning degrees, David Wallace has been principal planner for a number of local authorities in...

Scottish by-to-let market 'faring well'

Mon, 30 Jul 2007 00:00:00 +0100

The Scottish buy-to-let market is faring better than other parts of the UK, latest figures have suggested.

According to recent research from Birmingham Midshires, the average total returns for buy-to-let investors in Scotland was 16.6 per cent compared to 13 per cent for UK investors between June 2006 and...

Developers 'taking steps to address flooding risks'

Fri, 27 Jul 2007 00:00:00 +0100

Recent flooding which has affected many areas across the UK has acted as a wake-up call for buyers and developers alike, according to property consultancy Knight Frank.

The firm states that developers are committing increased resources to evaluate potential flood risk in order to avoid problems for new homes.

Mark Wilkinson, spokesperson...

Mortgage approval levels 'growing weaker'

Thu, 26 Jul 2007 00:00:00 +0100

An assessment of the mortgage market in June shows that approval levels are becoming more subdued, one industry body has stated.

The British Bankers' Association, reviewing market behaviour for the last full month, has stated that the average loan stood at £159,600 - around 16 per cent higher than the same...

Redrow advertises at Glasgow River Festival

Wed, 25 Jul 2007 00:00:00 +0100

New properties from housebuilder Redrow Homes have been previewed at the city's River Festival.

A hot air balloon and a hospitality marquee were used at the event to raise awareness of the new developments, which are located at Braehead and Anniesland.

New home buyers were able to discuss both Riverside Point and...

CLG sources land for housebuilding

Tue, 24 Jul 2007 00:00:00 +0100

Following up a pledge by prime minister Gordon Brown to increase the supply of affordable housing by 2020, government department Communities and Local Government (CLG) has announced that it is evaluating its current supply of surplus land.

Anyone looking to purchase new homes in the central belt of Scotland may be...

Scotland 'outperforming all but London and Northern Ireland'

Mon, 23 Jul 2007 00:00:00 +0100

House prices in Scotland remain some of the lowest in the country, while increasing at one of the highest rates, according to new figures.

The quarterly house price index from Halifax suggests that the average house price in the country stands at £140,262 - joined only by Yorkshire and the Humber...

Factory site set for new life

Thu, 19 Jul 2007 00:00:00 +0100

A plan to regenerate an old pet food production site in Glasgow is making progress with the submission of a planning application, it has been reported.

The Barrhead site is hoped to be the location of 120 new homes, providing a welcome boost to the local economy.

The East Renfrewshire location has...

NAEA: House prices set to level out

Wed, 18 Jul 2007 00:00:00 +0100

Property prices in the UK are unlikely to drop soon, but the rate of growth is likely to slow as the market levels out, according to the National Association of Estate Agents (NAEA).

Investment in property has proven to be a wise choice, having outperformed all markets including gold and the...

CIH to support government housing plans

Tue, 17 Jul 2007 00:00:00 +0100

Government targets for the construction of three million new homes by 2020 across the UK are set to be supported by new research from the Chartered Institute of Housing (CIH).

The CIH and Oxford Brookes University have been commissioned to conduct a project investigating the management of land supply, which is...

House price inflation in Scotland slows

Mon, 16 Jul 2007 00:00:00 +0100

House price inflation in Scotland slowed during May this year, with the inflation rate dropping from 17.8 per cent in April 2005 to 15.5 per cent in May 2007.

A new statistical release from Communities and Local Government shows that the mix-adjusted average house price in Scotland this May was £157,974.

UK...

Scotland maintains new buyer interest

Fri, 13 Jul 2007 00:00:00 +0100

Scotland defied a slowdown in UK house prices during June this year, with new buyer enquiries rising in the country over the month.

New figures from the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (Rics) indicate that the number of buyer enquiries in Britain fell during June 2007 in all regions except Scotland,...

Brown commits to 3m new homes

Thu, 12 Jul 2007 00:00:00 +0100

Prime minister Gordon Brown has promised that he will take action to tackle the growing housing crisis in Britain and unveiled plans for more affordable homes.

Placing housing at the top of his agenda, the new premier said this week that three million new homes would be built in Britain between...

Construction confidence 'remains high'

Tue, 10 Jul 2007 00:00:00 +0100

Confidence in the construction sector remains good despite a slowing in workloads in the last quarter, according to the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors.

While workload growth slowed slightly, it remains above the average for the long run of Ric's survey, the institution suggests.

And although the slowdown was evenly spread across...

Regeneration reaches the Old Town

Mon, 09 Jul 2007 00:00:00 +0100

The Old Town area of Edinburgh is set to receive a boost in the coming months following the announcement of planning permission for a regeneration project.

While many of the existing buildings are listed and are set to be redeveloped, new build properties complementing those already standing are also planned,...

Tenements 'ideal' for waterfront revival

Fri, 06 Jul 2007 00:00:00 +0100

Ambitious plans for the regeneration of the waterfront area in Glasgow are causing heated debate in the area.

An architectural consultant has stated that the discussions between developers needing to maximise profits and locals hoping for a traditional, attractive property is unlikely to dissipate until the developments reach their conclusion.

However, Neil...

Robertson doubles profits

Thu, 05 Jul 2007 00:00:00 +0100

A major developer operating in the central Scotland region has announced a doubling of pre-tax profits in the last year, it has emerged.

The Stirling-based group Robertson, which operates in a number of sectors including new-home construction, attributed its financial success in part to a restructuring of its operations.

Indeed,...

Homes in Scotland 'most affordable'

Wed, 04 Jul 2007 00:00:00 +0100

Homes in Scotland are the most affordable in the UK, it has emerged.

The Halifax house price index for June 2007 shows that Scotland is one of two remaining regions of the UK where the average cost of a home is less than £150,000.

Scotland now tops the affordability chart with an...