In 2025, Scotland’s capital city, Edinburgh was the most popular city in the UK for prospective US buyers.* 

Four other destinations in Scotland; Glasgow, Highland, Argyll and Bute and Fife were in the top ten. This represents a shift in focus from London and other property hotspots in the UK. 

Brodies’ US clients have chosen Scotland for a range of reasons, which include:

  • a Scottish base for European travel and business;
  • a second home; 
  • an investment opportunity; 
  • Scotland’s golf courses; and 
  • a home for children choosing to study in one of Scotland’s prestigious and historic universities.

The allure of Scotland may not come as a surprise to many of you, but did you know that the process of buying a property in Scotland is generally faster and easier to navigate than in the other parts of the UK? Let me explain:

  • Timescales: On average, you can get the keys to your new property within 6-8 weeks of making your offer. This is faster than in other parts of the UK.

  • Deposit: Almost no seller will require you to put funds on escrow / pay a deposit. Deposits are much more common in other parts of the UK.

  • Survey: Sellers must give all prospective buyers a Home Report. The Home Report includes a survey by a chartered surveyor. Most buyers do not instruct their own independent survey, but it is possible to do so and usually depends on the type and condition of the property. No other part of the UK operates the Home Report system.

  • Property Tax: The Scottish property tax is called “Land and Buildings Transaction Tax”. 

  • The role of the lawyer: a lawyer will guide you through the contractual aspects of the process including making the initial offer. They will also carry out due diligence on the seller and their title deeds, register your ownership of the property and submit the property tax return. 

Choosing the right firm or lawyer is key. At Brodies we can help US clients navigate the Scottish property market with confidence, managing the legal process from start to finish, and coordinating seamlessly with advisers on both sides of the Atlantic.

*According to the property search engine Rightmove.

Contributor

Miriam Armstrong

Managing Associate