News & Blog

Buy-to-Let in Glasgow: 4 Reasons Why You Should Do It Learn why buy-to-let in Glasgow is a no-brainer in this post from Cairn Estate & Letting Agency. Once an industrial powerhouse, home to factories and shipyards, Glasgow is today every inch a modern European city. Full of culture, diversity, and a growing population, it’s little wonder that Dear Green Place has resonated with property investors. And in this brief post, we share 4 reasons why you might buy-to-let in Glasgow. Why Buy-to-Let in Glasgow? 1. A thriving economy With the largest economy in Scotland (and the 4th largest in the UK), Glasgow is home to a range of established and emerging sectors. The likes of health, education, retail, and finance — alongside digital, biotech, and low carbon industries — are attracting talent from far and wide, providing ample opportunities and competitive salaries. And with all these talented, well-paid individuals needing places to live, demand for properties is massive (more on that below). 2. A vibrant student population If you’re interested in investing in student accommodation, then look no further than Glasgow. With three top universities and eleven colleges in and around the city, it’s home to around 185,000 students. That makes it, by far, the biggest student city in Scotland, and the second-biggest in the UK. What’s more, Glasgow was recently named as the best UK city for millennials owing to an abundance of graduate job prospects, entertainment options, and overall quality of life. 3. Vital transport links Glasgow is incredibly easy to navigate, with plenty of reliable transport links dotted around the city. But the best part is, it looks like there could be significant improvements in the pipeline. For instance, the Subway (the third-oldest underground system in the world) is often the subject of audacious expansion plans, while a modern tram or light rail network has also been proposed. If these plans become reality, it could result in certain areas of the city becoming more desirable to commuters. And this could mean a greater return on investment for investors. This phenomenon isn’t anything new in Glasgow, either. As it stands, the proximity to a Subway station can actually push up rents due to demand. 4. Huge rental demand Finally, speaking of demand, Glasgow (alongside Edinburgh) is one of the best cities in the UK in which to purchase a buy-to-let property. According to these stats, the average rent in the city is currently £840 PCM, while the average time-to-let for a one-bedroom property is around 27 days. So, if you do invest in buy-to-let in Glasgow, you’ll enjoy terrific yields — and it’s unlikely that it’ll sit empty for very long! Cairn: Buy-to-Let Glasgow Experts Interested in exploring buy-to-let property in Glasgow? Get in touch with our property investment experts to learn more about our approach and services.

Glasgow, West End

How to Find the Best West End Estate Agents

How to Find the Best West End Estate Agents For many, the West End of Glasgow is the jewel in the city’s crown. A vibrant, sought after location, it’s home to beautiful properties, a buzzing nightlife, and idyllic green space. So, if you’re looking to call it home (or you want to sell your West End property at the highest price), it pays to work with the best West End estate agents. But how do you sort the best from the rest? In this short post, we share a few pointers. Introducing Glasgow’s West End The West End plays host to some of the city’s most stunning and unique architecture. Edwardian and Victorian buildings are set side-by-side with their modern counterparts, as old-style Glasgow tenements and glass facade new-builds weave seamlessly across the skyline. Byres Road is the area’s main artery, lined with busy bars, restaurants, shops and cafes. Take a wander down its cobblestone lanes to discover some of the West End’s hidden gems, including quirky boutiques, indoor markets, and independent galleries. And if the hustle and bustle gets to be too much, you can escape to the sprawling Kelvingrove Park or the leafy Botanic Gardens for a spot of quiet contemplation. All in all, it’s easy to see why Glasgow’s well-connected West End remains so popular. So, What Should You Look For in a West End Estate Agent? In our experience, there are three key questions you should ask yourself when shortlisting your West End estate agents. Let’s explore in more detail: 1. Are they local to the area? The best West End estate agents are part of the furniture. Their offices are located in the area, and their staff have real-world experience of the local amenities and transport links. Cairn, for example, is situated on Gibson Street, smack dab in the middle of the busy Kelvinbridge area. We’re a stone’s throw from Kelvingrove Park and 5 minutes from the University of Glasgow. While other estate agents might keep an eye on the West End, our staff know it inside out. 2. Do they have their finger on the pulse? To answer this, check their website and social media. Do they regularly post about events and activities in the area? Do they tweet about local news and available properties? And when quizzed on the hottest bars or the trendiest restaurants, do their staff answer without hesitation? That’s when you know you’re speaking with the real deal. 3. Are they part of the community? Finally, you’ll want to see that the West End isn’t simply a place of work for the agency. Instead, they’re a proud member of the community, actively involved and contributing to the spirit and togetherness. For instance, Cairn is regularly involved in local charitable initiatives and we’ve built up relationships with a number of West End-based partners over the years. The West End isn’t just a place of business; it’s our home. Cairn: Proudly Serving the West End of Glasgow Since 1999 Thinking of buying or selling in the West End? Let’s talk. Contact us today and speak to one of our friendly (local) property experts.

Buy To Let, Edinburgh, HMO Properties, Investment, Student Accommodation

4 Huge Reasons Why You Should Buy-to-Let in Edinburgh

In truth, there are loads of reasons to invest in buy-to-let property. From passive income and tax planning to long-term capital growth, it remains a popular and lucrative investment opportunity. But why should you focus your attention on buy-to-let in Edinburgh specifically? In this short post, we take a look at 4 reasons why Scotland’s capital remains in-demand with property investors. Why Buy-to-Let in Edinburgh? 1. A growing population The population of Edinburgh has been trending upwards since the 1990s and shows no signs of slowing. As of 2020, it sits at a whopping 536,775, and this is projected to grow to over 603,000 by 2035. This means it could rival — and even overtake — Glasgow at some point in the near future. And a growing population means a greater demand for housing stock. Worth bearing in mind if you’re trying to choose between the two cities. 2. A thriving student market Edinburgh is home to 6 universities and 3 colleges. The city attracts students from across Scotland, the UK, and the rest of the world, not just for its outstanding educational facilities, but also for its rich history, architecture, and nightlife. According to a recent census, full-time students comprise around 12% of the city’s population — and these students need somewhere to live! Investing in high-quality HMO student accommodation can meet that demand and deliver greater yields for property investors. 3. Opportunities for young professionals As we mentioned, Edinburgh’s population is growing rapidly, and a significant factor in that growth is the younger generation calling the city home. Around 20% of the population are in their 20s (only Aberdeen has a higher percentage in Scotland) and 15% are in their 30s. And as of 2018, the Scottish capital was the most prosperous UK city outside London. Around 40% of the workforce are in high-skilled jobs, with an average full-time salary of £30,700. This certainly ticks a few boxes for would-be property investors; namely young, full-time working professionals with a high level of disposable income. 4. The biggest arts festival in the world In 2019, a record 3 MILLION people descended on Edinburgh for the largest arts festival going. And although new legislation will be introduced in 2021 to control Airbnb-style short-term lets, the sheer number of tourists and performers visiting the city each year represents a massive opportunity for property investors, both in the short and longer-term. Cairn: Buy-to-Let Edinburgh Experts Interested in exploring buy-to-let opportunities in Edinburgh? Get in touch with our property investment experts to learn more about our approach and services.

Glasgow, Selling

5 Tips for Choosing an Estate Agent in Glasgow

5 Tips for Choosing an Estate Agent in Glasgow Discover how to choose an estate agent in Glasgow with this handy guide from Cairn Estate & Letting Agency. There’s no shortage of estate agents in Glasgow, but they’re not all created equal. Some, like Cairn, have been part of the furniture for decades, and know every square inch of the city, inside and out. Others, meanwhile, are still finding their bearings and don’t know their Newlands from their Shawlands. So, if you’re selling your property in Glasgow, how do you choose the right estate agent to handle the sale? Here we share 5 simple tips to help you decide. 1. Always Ask for Recommendations + Look for Signs The quickest way to find a great Glasgow estate agency is to ask family, friends, or co-workers who’ve moved recently who they used and if they’d recommend them. Being referred to an estate agent by someone you trust is often a good sign when it comes to customer service. And speaking of signs… Keep your eyes peeled for “For Sale” and “Sold” signs in and around your area. This is a strong indication that the company understands the local market and can achieve sales consistently. 2. Make a List, Check It Twice From your recommendations, sign spotting, and internet searches, start to build a shortlist of around 6 to 8 estate agents. Done? Well, next, you need to whittle that list down to the final 3 you want to talk to. To do this, check each of their websites and social media for the following: Customer testimonials and independent reviews; Company info — How long have they been operating in your area?; Staff bios — How big is their team and what do they specialise in?; Current property listings — How are they presented? Are they well written? Do they include floor plans? Quality photography? Video tours? Leading property portals — Are they on the likes of Zoopla, OnTheMarket.com, and Rightmove? Social media activity — Are they active and responsive on social media? Are they sharing properties there too? 3. Visit Them Undercover (If You Can) Armed with your shortlist, it’s time to go undercover. Visit each estate agent posing as a potential buyer looking for a property just like your own (i.e., the same number of bedrooms, same size, local amenities, etc.). Listen carefully to how the suggested properties are pitched to you. Would you be satisfied if this was actually your property? Would you be left with more questions than answers? Would you buy (or at least like to view) the property? This will give you an insight into how each agency conducts its business. 4. Crunch Time: The Property Valuation Now it’s time to invite your shortlisted Glasgow estate agents to visit your property for a valuation. There are a few things you need to look out for here: Punctuality and professionalism — Have they arrived when they said they would? Are they polite, organised, and presentable? Local knowledge — Can they speak with authority on the local area? Do they know what’s selling well, and can they back that up with stats? The valuation — Don’t be hypnotised by suggestions of a big number, as this is often a tactic to win your business. Instead, listen out for a consistent price range between the 3 agents, and ask them to justify their opinions. Here at Cairn, we always provide an honest, realistic valuation based on our assessment of market data and industry experience. 5. Finally, Quiz Them On Your Property Sale Now’s your chance to ask the agents how they plan to market and sell your property. First, do they have a “hot buyer’s list”? This is a list of ready-to-move prospective buyers who get first dibs on new properties. If your property ticks all their boxes, you could be in for a quick sale. What sort of marketing resources do they provide (online and off)? Will they be conducting the viewings, or is that left to you? Do they offer home staging advice? I.e., layout and design tips to appeal to a certain market. How often will they check-in with you on progress? Will this be a phone call, email, or both? Choose Your Glasgow Estate Agent Once you’ve met the agents, spent time in their company, listened to their sales and marketing ideas, and had their fees and services explained, it’s time to choose. Our last piece of advice is to remember that people buy people. You’ll want to put your sale in the hands of the agent who’s personable, knowledgeable, motivated and easy to deal with (because remember, you’ll be working closely with them to achieve the best sale price possible). Thinking of selling your Glasgow property? Get in touch today to have a chat or arrange a valuation.

Buy To Let, Investment, Tenanted Properties

Buying A Tenanted Property

Thinking of buying a tenanted property? Worried how much it’s going to cost you? In short, buying a tenanted property maximises cashflow and reduces capital expenditure. When you buy an empty buy to let property you do have to factor into account your additional costs, property fit out, licenses, certificates, agency fees, […]

Hints & Tips, Landlords, News

COVID 19 LOAN SCHEME

COVID 19 LOAN SCHEME A new loan scheme has been made available this week for some landlords whose tenancies have been affected by COVID-19. Private Rent Sector Landlord COVID-19 Loan Scheme Last month, the Scottish Government announced it would provide an interest-free loan to landlords who have suffered a loss of rental income as […]

Services

Virtual Valuations in response to COVID-19

Virtual Valuations in response to COVID-19 In response to the government’s advice on the COVID-19 virus, we are reviewing the way we work in order to protect the health and wellbeing of you and our staff. As an alternative to home visits, we are now offering virtual property valuations using photos, videos and information supplied by the seller or landlord. This means our clients can count on the same accuracy, expertise and personal service, but from a safe distance. To contact us enquiries@cairnletting.com

HMO Properties, Investment

INVESTING IN A HMO PROPERTY ?

Guide: Investing in HMO properties Average rent prices are still on the rise virtually everywhere in the UK. The figures, from Zoopla, show that its up 2.6% annual increase in rents across the UK is the highest rate seen in three years. With both Glasgow and Edinburgh having a shortage of supply, competition for available […]

Edinburgh, Estate Agency, Glasgow, Letting

Check out our new responsive, faster to use Website !

Check out our new responsive, faster and easier to use Website ! We listened to our Landlords & Tenants and are very excited to announce the launch of our new state of the art website. The new site features improved navigation and clean, fresh design as well as introducing you to our four key defined business areas, Investors, Tenants, Landlords & Estate Agency. We wanted to make the new website faster, easier to navigate, and more user-friendly and Its integral for us to make our tenant facing information easily accessible and informative for our tenancies. As well as still marketing properties on all the leading property engines, Cairn have invested in a our new website to help deliver our unrivalled service even more efficiently online. www.CairnEstateAgency.com

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Buy To Let, Glasgow, Investment, Student Accommodation

Buy-to-Let in Glasgow: 4 Reasons Why You Should Do It