News & Blog

Leading Glasgow’s Property Scene – Cairn Estate Agency’s Unmatched Expertise The Cairn Difference, Beyond Property Management What sets Cairn Estate Agency apart is not just our comprehensive array of services but the depth of our expertise and our unwavering commitment to tailoring our approach to suit the unique needs of each client. From savvy HMO management that maximises returns in a city teeming with students, to navigating the nuanced Glasgow letting scene, selling with strategic prowess, or offering the innovative Cairn BNB service, Cairn is the epitome of property mastery. HMO Mastery – A Class Apart In Glasgow’s dynamic market, HMOs present a golden opportunity. Cairn’s mastery over HMO management is unparalleled, blending regulatory expertise with operational excellence. We transform complexity into profitability, ensuring your HMO investment thrives. Letting Services – Precision Personified Our letting services are a testament to our belief in precision. We match properties with the right tenants and ensure every aspect of the letting process is managed flawlessly, reflecting our deep understanding of what Glasgow landlords and tenants need. Sales Strategy – Selling Smarter, Not Harder Selling a property is an art, and Cairn has perfected it. Our strategies are backed by market insights that only a West End-based agency can possess, ensuring that when you sell with Cairn, you’re not just listing your property; you’re making a statement. Cairn BNB – Redefining Short-term Letting The short-term rental market is booming, and Cairn BNB is at its forefront. By merging the flexibility of short-term lets with our hallmark professionalism, we’ve created a service that maximises earnings while maintaining the highest standards of property management. Why People in Glasgow Trust Cairn Cairn isn’t merely a property agency; to many in Glasgow, we’re a cornerstone of the community. Our spot on Gibson Street, right in the life-filled West End, goes beyond geographical convenience—it’s where our heart is. It’s where every day, we’re inspired by the city’s hustle and our neighbours’ dreams. Choosing Cairn means you’re not just getting a property expert; you’re gaining a friend with an insider’s view of the Glasgow property scene. Our team, as diverse and dynamic as Glasgow itself, is committed to supporting every client’s journey, whether it’s finding a first home, investing in property, or managing a portfolio. Cairn and Glasgow – Growing Together Glasgow’s property landscape is as dynamic and spirited as the city itself, brimming with opportunities for those ready to seize them. At Cairn, we’re not just moving with the times; we’re looking ahead, imagining the possibilities, and making them realities. Our passion for innovation keeps us at the forefront, whether it’s embracing the latest trends in property management or exploring new investment opportunities. As Glasgow evolves, so does Cairn, steadfast in our mission to be more than your property agency—we’re your partners in building a brighter future in this vibrant city. Whether you’re venturing into the world of HMOs, looking to let, sell, or manage a property, or explore the lucrative realm of short-term rentals, Cairn Estate Agency is your ultimate partner. Located in the vibrant heart of the West End on Gibson Street, our doors are always open for you to discover how we can turn your property ambitions into achievements. Reach out today and let Cairn start you on your path to property success in Glasgow.

Letting, Landlords, Legislation

Mastering Letting Compliance in Scotland with Cairn Letting & Estate Agency

Mastering Letting Compliance in Scotland – Your Essential Guide with Cairn Letting & Estate Agency The Importance of Compliance in the Scottish Letting Market Scotland’s letting market is buoyant and diverse, offering significant opportunities for landlords. However, the landscape of letting compliance in Scotland is comprehensive, encompassing various legal requirements designed to protect tenants and landlords alike. Compliance isn’t just a legal requirement; it’s a cornerstone of trust in the landlord-tenant relationship, influencing tenant satisfaction and the long-term success of your letting venture. Navigating the Letting Compliance Maze Letting compliance in Scotland involves several key regulations and standards that landlords must adhere to, ensuring properties are safe, secure, and suitable for tenants. These include: Safety Regulations Landlords are required to ensure that all gas and electrical installations are inspected annually by a qualified professional. Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors must be installed in specific locations within the property. Energy Efficiency An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) must be obtained for the property, demonstrating its energy efficiency to potential tenants. Repairing Standard Landlords must ensure that the property meets the Scottish Government’s repairing standard, which includes the property being wind and watertight and the installations for supply of water, gas, electricity, sanitation, space heating, and hot water being in a reasonable state of repair and working order. Tenant Information Pack Landlords are required to provide tenants with a ‘Tenant Information Pack’, which includes essential information about the property, the tenancy, and the rights and responsibilities of both tenants and landlords. Private Residential Tenancy (PRT) Introduced to replace assured and short assured tenancy agreements, the PRT offers more security to tenants and flexibility for landlords. It’s crucial to understand the implications of this tenancy type on your letting arrangements. Simplifying Compliance for Scottish Landlords The complexity of compliance can be overwhelming, particularly for new landlords or those with multiple properties. Cairn Estate Agency is your partner in ensuring that your letting properties not only meet all legal requirements but also stand out in the competitive Scottish market. Our comprehensive compliance services include: Regular updates on changing legislation and how it affects your properties. Organising and maintaining all necessary safety certificates and documentation. Guidance on meeting the Repairing Standard and EPC requirements. Assistance with preparing the Tenant Information Pack and managing Private Residential Tenancies. By leveraging Cairn’s expertise, landlords can navigate the compliance landscape with confidence, focusing on maximising their investment’s potential while ensuring a safe, compliant, and attractive offering to tenants. In the fast-paced and regulated Scottish letting market, staying compliant is key to success and tenant satisfaction. Cairn Letting & Estate Agency is dedicated to providing landlords with the knowledge, services, and support needed to navigate letting compliance with ease. Whether you’re an experienced landlord or new to the market, our team is here to ensure your properties meet every standard and regulation. Contact Cairn Letting & Estate Agency today to learn more about our letting compliance services and how we can help you build a successful, compliant letting business in Scotland.

Letting, Landlord Insurance, Landlords, Property Finance, Tenanted Properties, Uncategorized

The importance of specialist landlord insurance.

The Importance of Specialist Landlord Insurance As a landlord, arranging appropriate insurance for your buy-to-let property is crucial for safeguarding your investment. Comprehensive landlord’s insurance is essential to protect you and your finances from unexpected events that may result in an insurance claim. While regular household insurance provides cover for your building and possessions while […]

Letting, Edinburgh, Meet The Team, Property Careers, Property Managers, Staff

Meet the Team – Jordan Jack Property Manager

Meet the Team – Jordan Jack Property Manager Describe your role in one sentence at Cairn? As a Property Manager I am the main point of contact for our landlords and tenants in the East of Scotland Area. How long have you worked at Cairn? I joined Cairn at the end of 2023 and can’t […]

Letting, Glasgow, Property Careers, Property Managers, Recruitment

What’s it like to work at Cairn?

What’s it like to work at Cairn? The key to Cairn’s success is its people and our commitment to high quality and personal customer service. There are lots of opportunities within Cairn, from working within letting, estate agency, property investment, finance, and development. This post is for anyone considering a new challenge and is a […]

Letting, Edinburgh

Moving from Short-Term Letting into Long-term letting – Edinburgh

Transitioning from Short-Term to Long-Term Letting in Edinburgh In recent years, Edinburgh’s property market has seen a significant shift from short-term to long-term letting. This transition offers various advantages for property owners and requires careful consideration and strategy. Cairn Letting & Estate Agency, with our extensive experience in both short-term and long-term letting markets, provides invaluable guidance in this transition. Edinburgh, a city known for its vibrant culture and history, attracts a diverse range of tenants. The letting market here is dynamic, with short-term rentals traditionally popular due to tourism and events. However, the trend is tilting towards long-term letting, offering stability and a steady income stream for landlords. The shift to long-term letting brings several benefits. It offers a more predictable and stable income, compared to the seasonal fluctuations of short-term rentals. Furthermore, it allows landlords to build lasting relationships with tenants, which can lead to better care and maintenance of the property. Transitioning to long-term letting involves understanding the legal and regulatory changes, such as tenancy agreements and property standards. Property owners must also consider the suitability of their property for long-term occupancy, which might require different amenities and maintenance compared to short-term rentals. Cairn Letting & Estate Agency stands out in facilitating this transition. Our comprehensive services include legal advice, property assessment, and effective tenant matching. Our team of experts ensures that your property meets the requirements for long-term letting and helps you navigate the process smoothly. For property owners in Edinburgh, moving from short-term to long-term letting represents a strategic shift in the approach to property management. Cairn Letting & Estate Agency offers the expertise and support needed to make this transition a success. If you’re considering this move, reach out to us for professional guidance and ensure your property reaches its full long-term letting potential.

Letting, Glasgow, Guides, Landlords, Legislation, Tenants

LATEST UPDATE ON THE REPAIRING STANDARD JAN 2023

Latest update to the Repairing standard – Lead Pipes Private rented properties as we all know are heavily regulated and in addition to all other requirements expected to be adhered to, all private landlords must ensure that their properties are served by a water supply system that is in a reasonable state of repair and […]

Letting, Estate Agency, General, Landlords, News, Social Responsibility

Cairn – Our Social Responsibility

Cairn – Social Responsibility Cairn care for the future of our planet, people, and wildlife. We want to do “our bit” ethically and sustainably to make sure we are being as good to the planet as we can be. We cannot rely on governments to reduce our carbon footprint. We must all take responsibility. […]

Letting, Legislation

What will happen after the 31st March 2024 regarding Scottish Government’s Rent Cap?

What will happen after the 31st March 2024 regarding Scottish Government’s Rent Cap? From the 6th September 2022, there was a temporary cap on rent increases for private tenancies in Scotland. This was part of the Scottish Government’s wisdom to lessen the burden to tenants on the impact of the cost-of-living crisis. The cap was set at 3% and is expected to stay in place until the 31st of March 2024. The government’s current proposal is that from 1 April 2024 landlords can issue a rent increase notice up to the current market value of the property. The tenant could then refer the increase to the rent officer for adjudication if they felt it was too high. The rent officer would be able to restrict the rent increase through a tapering mechanism. The larger the difference between the current rent and the open market rent, the larger the increase which would be permitted by the rent officer subject to a maximum figure yet to be announced (but likely to be in the region of 10-15%). These proposals are still under consideration and SAL will notify members as soon as a firm announcement is made about rent increase procedures from 1 April. Rent increase notices issued before 1 April are still subject to a 3% cap, even if the increase doesn’t come into force until after that date. Assured or short assured tenancies which contain a rent increase clause in the contract terms are exempt from the current rent cap and are also expected to be exempt from the proposals set out above. Q: Can I increase the rent to market value after March 31st 2024 if I have implemented the 3% increase in the last year? A: No, if you have increased your rent by 3% in the last 12 months you cannot increase it to market value until 12 months has passed since the 3% increase. Can rent for an active tenancy can be increased by any amount? A: No, to prevent steep increases post-rent cap expiration, the government plans to introduce temporary charges to the rent adjudication process. These measures lasting a max of one year and subject to regular review aim to protect tenants during the transition. We doubt most landlords will seek steep rental increases. We know that many landlords have helped tenants throughout the uncertainty of covid and the cost-of-living crisis. Q What are the new temporary changes? A: When the emergency rent cap is removed the Scottish Government plans to amend the rent adjudication process so decisions must be based on the lowest of the three comparators: Open market rent The new rent proposed by the landlord A maximum “reasonable” increase for that tenancy, which will be defined by a new taper calculation. Unfortunately, with less than three months to go we do not yet have firm legislation on the rent increase cap. However, the potential plan set out by the Scottish Government does seem sensible for both landlords and tenants. As an experienced letting agent, we do not foresee any of our landlords requesting for rents to be increased at an unreasonable level and we will always advise them of the market value and what we believe is a suitable increase. Rent Officers will monitor these closely and ensure all landlord and letting agents are being fair and reasonable.

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Letting, Glasgow, Investment, Landlords, Property Development, Property Investment, Property Management

Leading Glasgow’s Property Scene – Why Cairn Estate Agency Reigns Supreme