Not sure where to buy your first home? Those taking the first step to climb the property ladder have the task of navigating numerous considerations. Getting the location, budget, amenities, and prospects right is a balancing act. We are here to help you understand the essentials of buying property and size up several worthy locations you may not have appraised.
Is it a good time to invest in the Scottish property market?
Yes, the Scottish housing market is stable and secure right now. Prices have shown consistent growth. Scotland is the only region that remained in positive growth over 2023. The number of sales agreed upon is increasing, a reliable indicator of housing market health. It shows greater confidence in buyers to purchase homes. Reduced mortgage rates and increased earnings have been instrumental in improving housing market activity.
Factors to consider when buying a home for the first time
When purchasing a home for the first time, several crucial factors should guide your decision. These include:
Budget – determine how much you can afford to spend on a property. Consider not only the asking price of a property but also additional costs such as LBTT, council tax bands, conveyancing fees and reservation fees. If you are buying an older home, you may also need to consider renovation and retrofitting costs.
Mortgage – consult mortgage lenders to determine how much you can borrow. You should have a Mortgage Agreement in Principle when making an offer or reserving a new build.
Proximity to schools and workplaces – your new home should be within school catchment areas if you have school-going children. Consider the distance to the nearest school and other schools in the area. If you are commuting to work, choose a commuter town or village. Some locations have well-placed travel links for rail, bus and car.
Quality of schools and colleges – proximity is only one aspect. Check school inspection reports, ratings and reviews. Make a list of potential choices and schools with free places for your child. Do not be swayed by popular misconceptions, such as that the more affluent the neighbourhood, the better the schools. Sometimes, children can get a higher quality education in schools in quieter neighbourhoods.
Community and neighbourhood – decide the type of neighbourhood you want to live in. Is it urban, suburban or the countryside? Do you want to live in a charming coastal town or a town with rolling hills, sweeping valleys and salmon-abound rivers? Families usually prefer the country due to safer, quieter and leafier neighbourhoods. These have close-knit communities and a higher social capital. Consider the size of the garden and the availability of a garage or driveway. And, most importantly, maximum satisfaction for your budget.
Best locations for first-time buyers
Methven
Located 10km west of Perth and east of Crieff, Methven is a commuter village in Perthshire. It is under 30 minutes from the city of Perth and an hour’s drive from Edinburgh and Glasgow. Positioned on the A85, a regular bus service operates in the area. Perth railway station and Dundee airport are the nearest, with Dundee only 40 minutes away.
Methven Primary School & Nursery, the nearby Glenalmond College and schools in Crieff and Perth offer quality primary and secondary education. The village high street offers numerous local, independent shops, eateries and businesses. From woodlands to the castle to parks to the River Almond, Methven and the surrounding area provide outdoor pursuits for all ages and interests.
Blairgowrie
At the gateway to Glenshee is the historic market town of Blairgowrie in Perthshire. Bordering the River Ericht, the riverine town has angling and boating galore in store for you. Perth City is 30 minutes away, and glens and golf strolls away. There are good state and independent schools in Blairgowrie, all with top ratings by Education Scotland. Blairgowrie High School is an excellent provider of secondary education in the area.
The bustling town offers an array of shops, supermarkets, restaurants, eateries and pubs. The engaging community has various clubs, societies and organisations for sports, hobbies and interests. From Blairgowrie Golf Club to the Cataran Trail, there’s much that keeps life interesting here.
Stonehaven
It is one of the most picturesque seaside towns in Scotland. Situated along the northeast coast of Scotland, it is only 15 miles south of Aberdeen. You could be in the city in 20 minutes and in Dundee in under an hour. The Stonehaven station offers direct services to Edinburgh, Glasgow and Aberdeen, with additional options on change at Dundee.
The town has a good choice of primary and secondary schools. The University of Aberdeen is a top university in Scotland, offering world-class qualifications. There are also independent shops, award-winning eateries, festivals, a heated open-air swimming pool, a golf course, beaches and coves.
Crieff
Located 18 miles west of Perth, Crieff conveniently connects to the rest of Scotland by rail, bus and car. You could be in Perth or Stirling within 30 minutes and access regular trains to Edinburgh and Glasgow in less than 1.5 hours. Crieff Hydro provides numerous amenities, from recreational activities to fine dining restaurants. There are local and independent shops, supermarkets, farm shops, delis, art galleries, businesses, cafes, traditional pubs and restaurants. Good local schools include Crieff Primary, Crieff High School, Morrison’s Academy and Ardvreck School.
Prime homes in prime locations by GS Brown
Your first home is always going to be your most apprehensive investment. Choose locations that offer fulfilling lives and homes that live up to expectations. GS Brown has been building homes for over 40 years. We have scrutinised the best towns for our developments. We take pride in the neighbourhoods and communities we have chosen. Start your family life with GS Brown construction. Buy an energy-efficient new build tailored to modern specifications with durable craftsmanship.
