Glasgow Property Market and Real Estate Guide

(Glasgow, Scotland, UK)



Image of George Square, GlasgowThe Scottish city of Glasgow has a chequered history and was momentarily infamous in the 1960s for its Gorbals slums - definitely not the place to live! In the 21st century, it is a different story, although there are still areas best avoided.

Glasgow is the largest city in Scotland and lies along the banks of the River Clyde, in the West Central Lowlands. Rapid de-industrialisation in the 1960s caused mass unemployment, welfare dependency, population decline and urban decay. However, modern Greater Glasgow is now home to over a million residents, having pulled itself up by its bootstraps to become a major European financial and investment hub.


The heart of the city lies around Glasgow Cathedral, from the old High Street to the river banks. Now a retail and theatre district centred on George Square and the shopping streets of Argyle, Buchanan and Sauchiehall, the district is home to cultural events, as well as hosting Scottish Opera, Scottish Ballet and several art galleries.

Residentially, the city is divided into wealthy and poorer areas, with the discrepancy between the two increasing at present. The city centre, bohemian West End and the university district are the most expensive areas, with the originally industrial East End becoming more fashionable.

The South Side, home to the notorious Gorbals district and the former docklands, is also where you will find a number of fine parks. North Glasgow contains both affluent suburbs and some of the most run-down city areas.

Renting Serviced Apartments

Glasgow offers a huge selection of serviced apartments in the downtown, West End and South Side areas, ranging from studios to top-of-the-range suites, at prices which represent a saving on comparable hotels. In the main, furnishings are ultra-modern and everything is provided, including toiletries and self-catering necessities.

Buying Apartments and Houses

There are no restrictions on the purchase of property by non-citizens, but residency for non-EU citizens can prove problematic. Although property prices were hit in recent years, the market is showing sharp signs of recovery, particularly in the upscale sector. Investors can still find properties at good prices, with letting giving good returns due to the high student population.

Purchasing property here is straightforward, although Scottish and UK property law differs slightly. After a property is found, the buyer's solicitor sends a 'note of interest', followed by a written offer, to the seller's solicitor. An exchange of 'missives' confirms the acceptance of the legally binding offer. Transfer of title and the 'disposition' effecting the transfer follows. The buyer's final charges average at five percent of the purchase price, and stamp duty of one percent is also payable.

Real Estate Agents

The city hosts a huge number of estate agents, usually with an in-house solicitor as part of the package. Agencies in large cities often specialise in the area around their office location.

Check out the following real estate agents:

Countrywide
Address: 1 Barrachnie Road, Baillieston, Glasgow, G69 6HB, Scotland
Tel: +44 (0)141 773 4455
Email: via website
Website: www.countrywidescotland.co.uk
Countrywide is one of the largest estate agents chains in Scotland and is known for its excellent service.

Clyde Property
Address: 145 Byres Road, Glasgow, G12 8TT, Scotland
Tel: +44 (0)141 576 1777
Email: westend@clydeproperty.co.uk
Website: www.clydeproperty.com
Clyde Property is the largest independent agency in Scotland and offers a large selection of properties at most price levels.

Slater Hogg and Howison
Address: 153 Kirkintilloch Road, Bishopsbriggs, Glasgow, G64 2LS, Scotland
Tel: +44 (0)141 772 6488
Email: via website
Website: www.slaterhogg.co.uk
This agency has four offices in Glasgow, as well as a comprehensive and informative website.