Podcast: What's happening in the West Fife property market?

In this week's episode, Megan & Paul chat to Elaine Kyle from Morgans and Michael Maloco from Maloco Mowat Parker about the property market in West Fife. As enthusiasts of Fife, Elaine and Michael discuss the affordability of the area, their Fife hidden gems and what the 2025 property outlook is for the region.

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Key Insights

Affordable housing in popular areas

West Fife offers affordable property options, particularly compared to Edinburgh. Areas like Dunfermline, Inverkeithing, and Dalgety Bay provide a variety of properties, including two- to three-bedroom homes priced between £165,000 and £185,000. One-bedroom flats can even be found under £100,000, which is rare in Edinburgh.

West Fife's hidden gems

Besides Dunfermline, areas like Aberdour, Burntisland, and the former mining villages of Kelty and Lochgelly also offer affordable housing options with good rail connections and a mix of property types. Coastal villages and countryside spots are also popular, attracting residents seeking proximity to Edinburgh and scenic surroundings.

Property market trends

Despite recent interest rate hikes, West Fife’s property market has remained active, with increased listings in 2024 and steady demand. Buyers are more accustomed to higher interest rates, creating a stable environment for continued property transactions.

Balanced demand and supply

There is significant demand for family homes, particularly three- and four-bedroom houses. However, the supply of five-bedroom homes and larger properties is less in demand due to cost considerations, though well-located three-bedroom homes and period flats remain highly sought after.

Growth in new builds and expanding villages

New housing developments in Dunfermline and surrounding West Fife villages, like Crossford and Cairneyhill, are fueling population growth and supporting the housing market’s stability. These new builds offer alternatives but can also impact prices for similar, pre-owned properties.

Investing in Fife

The area is attractive for buy-to-let investors due to rising rental rates, with typical yields around 7%. Rents for two-bedroom flats, for example, have increased significantly, highlighting the strong demand for rental properties in the region.

Quality of life and local amenities

Dunfermline and its surroundings offer a high quality of life, with attractions like Pittencrieff Park, Lochore Meadows, the Alhambra Theatre, coastal paths, and proximity to both rural and urban areas. This lifestyle, along with scenic countryside and recreational options, makes Fife a desirable place for new residents.

Market outlook for 2025

West Fife’s property market is expected to remain resilient, with modest house price increases anticipated, just above inflation rates. Experts foresee stability without drastic changes, provided no significant economic disruptions occur.

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