×
Interested in our Partner Program for businesses or our Local Guide Program for experienced expats and digital nomads? Click here to learn more.
Real Estate in Scotland | Digital Nomad Exchange
Digital Nomad Exchange
Free MembershipSign In
St Andrews, Scotland

Real Estate in Scotland

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Jan 06, 2024

Summary: An expat looking to buy a home in Scotland should begin by researching the local housing market and familiarizing themselves with the different types of properties available. They should also consider their budget and the type of amenities they are looking for in a home. Foreigners are allowed to buy property in Scotland, however, they may need to obtain permission from the UK government if they are not a resident of the UK or an EU citizen. Homes in Scotland typically include amenities such as central heating, double glazing, and fitted kitchens. Depending on the property, they may also include a garden, garage, or other features.

Professional Property Finders
Professional Property Finders
Professional Property Finders
Professional Property Finders

How do I find a place to live in Scotland?

We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"One way to find a place to live in Scotland is to search online for rental listings. Websites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and Gumtree are popular resources for finding rental properties in Scotland. Additionally, you can contact local estate agents who specialize in renting out properties in Scotland. You can also look for rental postings in local newspapers and on community notice boards. Finally, you can ask friends and family if they know of any available rental properties in Scotland," explained one person living in Scotland.

Professional Property FindersProfessional Property Finders
Get Quote

This is a personal property finding service. I team up with a buyer and help you find the perfect property for your needs. I am your man on the ground and expert in the market. Whatever is important to you will be my mission to bring you what you want without all the stress whilst guiding and protecting you in the process.

Professional Property FindersProfessional Property Finders

This is a personal property finding service. I team up with a buyer and help you find the perfect property for your needs. I am your man on the ground and expert in the market. Whatever is important to you will be my mission to bring you what you want without all the stress whilst guiding and protecting you in the process.
Get Quote

What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Scotland?

"Expat homes and apartments in Scotland tend to be modern and comfortable, with plenty of natural light and a neutral colour palette. Many expats choose to live in the city centre, where they can enjoy easy access to public transportation, shops, restaurants, and other amenities. Expat apartments often come with a fully-equipped kitchen, a comfortable living area, and a balcony or terrace. Many expats also choose to live in the suburbs, where they can enjoy a more relaxed lifestyle and access to green spaces," said one person in Scotland.

"I live in a two-bedroom letting company-rented flat. I don't think there's any "typical" living situation for expats in the UK - people live in anything from flats (council, private, or letting company-rented), houses (semi-detached or detached), country manors, etc," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Glasgow.

Professional Property Finders

This is a personal property finding service. I team up with a buyer and help you find the perfect property for your needs. I am your man on the ground and expert in the market. Whatever is important to you will be my mission to bring you what you want without all the stress whilst guiding and protecting you in the process.

Learn MoreGet Quote

Professional Property Finders

This is a personal property finding service. I team up with a buyer and help you find the perfect property for your needs. I am your man on the ground and expert in the market. Whatever is important to you will be my mission to bring you what you want without all the stress whilst guiding and protecting you in the process.

Learn MoreGet Quote

What is the average cost of housing in Scotland?

If you are thinking about moving to Scotland, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"The average cost of housing in Scotland is generally higher than in other parts of the UK, with the average house price in Scotland being significantly higher than the UK average. The cost of renting in Scotland is also higher than the UK average, with the average rent for a two-bedroom property in Scotland being around £700 per month," said one person in Scotland.

"They are equivalent to the condo fees I am paying. A three bedroom house, though, in Foggie is far more expensive than in Michigan and is more representative of East Coast US prices," said one expat who made the move to Aberchirder.

Should I buy or rent a home in Scotland?

If you have not spent a lot of time in Scotland, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:

"Buying a home in Scotland can be a great investment, as property prices are generally on the rise. However, it is important to consider your financial situation and lifestyle before making a decision. Renting can be a great option if you are looking for flexibility and don't want to commit to a long-term mortgage. It can also be a good way to get to know an area before deciding to buy. Ultimately, the decision to buy or rent a home in Scotland should be based on your individual needs and preferences," explained one person living in Scotland.

What do I need to know when buying property in Scotland?

When we asked expats what advice they would give a foreigner before buying a property in Scotland, they said:

"1. It is important to research the local area and the property market before making any decisions. 2. You should also consider the cost of living in the area, as well as any additional costs associated with buying a property in Scotland. 3. You should also be aware of the different types of property available in Scotland, such as flats, houses, and land. 4. You should also be aware of the different types of mortgages available in Scotland, such as fixed-rate mortgages and variable-rate mortgages. 5. You should also be aware of the different taxes and fees associated with buying a property in Scotland, such as Stamp Duty Land Tax and Land and Buildings Transaction Tax. 6. You should also be aware of the different legal requirements associated with buying a property in Scotland, such as the need to obtain a Home Report. 7. You should also be aware of the different types of surveys available in Scotland, such as a Home Condition Survey and a Building Survey. 8. You should also be aware of the different types of insurance available in Scotland, such as buildings insurance and contents insurance. 9. You should also be aware of the different types of energy efficiency measures available in Scotland, such as installing double glazing and insulation. 10. Finally, you should be aware of the different types of support available in Scotland, such as the Help to Buy scheme and the Right to Buy scheme," explained one person living in Scotland.

Are foreigners allowed to own property in Scotland?

When we asked expats what advice they would give a foreigner before buying a property in Scotland, they said...

"Yes, foreigners are allowed to own property in Scotland. Non-UK citizens are able to purchase property in Scotland, however, they may need to obtain permission from the UK government before doing so. Additionally, they may need to obtain a visa if they plan to stay in Scotland for more than three months. Furthermore, they may need to pay taxes on the property, such as Stamp Duty Land Tax and Land and Buildings Transaction Tax," explained one expat in Scotland.

What appliances are typically included in a rental?

We asked foreigners in Scotland what appliances are typically included in a rental, and, if there is anything else included or not included that a newcomer would not expect. Replies included:

"Rental properties in Scotland typically include a refrigerator, oven, stove, and washing machine. Other common appliances may include a dishwasher, microwave, and dryer. Depending on the property, additional appliances such as a toaster, kettle, and vacuum cleaner may also be included," explained one person living in Scotland.

Additional Information about Searching for a Home in Scotland:

We asked foreigners in Scotland what appliances are typically included in a rental, and, if there is anything else included or not included that a newcomer would not expect. Replies included...

"Expats can search for homes in Scotland by using online real estate websites, such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and PrimeLocation, which offer a wide range of properties for sale and rent. Additionally, expats can contact local real estate agents who specialize in helping expats find homes in Scotland. Expats can also search for homes in Scotland by attending open houses and property viewings, or by networking with other expats who may have knowledge of available properties," explained one expat in Scotland.

About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and serves as Co-President of Expat Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.

GeoBlue
GeoBlue

Top-quality coverage for people who live, work, study and travel internationally.
Get Quote

GeoBlueGeoBlue

Top-quality coverage for people who live, work, study and travel internationally.
Get Quote

Scotland GuideScotland Guide
Learn what digital nomads and expats have to say about living in Scotland.

Scotland Forum Scotland Forum
Talk with other digital nomads and expats in Scotland on our Scotland forum - meet people, get advice and help others.

Contribute to Scotland Network Contribute
Help others in Scotland by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Scotland.

Expat Healthcare Advice in ScotlandHealthcare & Health Insurance in Scotland

Digital Nomads in Scotland offer advice about healthcare, hospital visits, emergency rooms visits, finding a doctor and buying health insurance in Scotland.

Real Estate in ScotlandRentals in Scotland

Rentals in popular cities and towns in Scotland.

Guide to Real Estate in ScotlandGuide to Rentals & Real Estate in Scotland

Advice for people renting and buying real estate in Scotland.

St Andrews, Scotland

GeoBlue
GeoBlue

Top-quality coverage for people who live, work, study and travel internationally.
Get Quote

GeoBlueGeoBlue

Top-quality coverage for people who live, work, study and travel internationally.
Get Quote

Contribute to Scotland Network Contribute
Help others in Scotland by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Scotland.

Professional Property Finders
Professional Property Finders

Copyright 1997-2024 Burlingame Interactive, Inc.

Privacy Policy Legal Partners & Local Guides