The most popular areas of Edinburgh for buyers in 2021
Over the past 18 months, much of the discussion when it comes to property has been about buyers selling up in the cities to settle down somewhere rural.
But for many, the Capital remains the place to be.
Over the last year, Edinburgh’s neighbourhoods have been in high demand with buyers with a range of new priorities – from additional living space or amenities on the doorstep, to that most coveted of prizes: a private garden.
The trends may have shifted slightly, but one thing remains: for many, Edinburgh offers balance at its best. We look at the neighbourhoods where buyers have been setting up home and settling down.
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Homes in Edinburgh by the water
Post-pandemic, the capital’s coastline has thrived in popularity. Portobello and Joppa have long held strong appeal, but during 2021, demand has soared with buyers who long to live by the sea. The trend for homes here has seen sales volumes increase 60% during 2021 to date, with the average selling price rising 9% to £327,105.
Another popular waterside location is picturesque South Queensferry, which boasts excellent commuter links balanced with a quaint village feel. Buyers keen to settle in this prestigious postcode are in no short supply – sales volumes have increased by 96% in 2021, while selling prices have risen 5%, to £231,193.
Amy Howard, Head of Estate Agency at Deans Properties, agrees: “We’ve seen the impact of the ‘race for space’ across the city, especially in suburban areas. Areas like South Queensferry, which buyers had perhaps previously perceived to be too far from city centre offices, are really desirable locations now that buyers can work from home, with lots of commuters only having to travel a couple of days a week. Proximity to work has become less of a priority with access to green space, good schools and local amenities now at the fore.”
Homes in Edinburgh's suburbs
Pre-2020, Edinburgh’s hottest properties were centrally located, with buyers hungry to be close to the heart of the action. However, this year there’s been a rise in demand for larger homes in quieter locales.
The southwestern suburbs of Currie, Balerno and Juniper Green have been popular with those hunting for extra space. All under 35 minutes from the city centre, these neighbourhoods offer work/life balance, along with green spaces and highly regarded schools. The appetite here has seen property prices rise 10% year-on-year, with the volume of property sales up 31% and homes selling 14 days quicker than in 2020.
Robert Carroll, Managing Director at MOV8, comments, “Edinburgh has continued to be popular and buoyant over the past months. With more people looking for larger homes, we’ve seen strong interest in homes for sale in Currie, with many properties selling quickly and for substantially over the Home Report valuation. Currie offers a great balance of access to green space and countryside, whilst also being within easy commuting distance to the city centre, something that our customers really like.”
Also prevalent are north-western suburbs, such as Cramond, Barnton and Cammo. All around 25 minutes outside of the city centre and nestled among green spaces, local amenities and excellent transport links, it’s little wonder buyers have been keen to set up home here. Sales volumes have increased 78%, and average property prices are now £409,537, up 7% on 2020.
Homes in Edinburgh city centre
It’s not all about buyers swapping the city for suburban living. For many, the pandemic has enhanced the desire to have buzz, bright lights and bars, shops and restaurants within arm’s reach. From January-October 2021, the level of properties sold in Edinburgh’s central districts rose by 89%, as buyers sought to claim a piece of the Capital for themselves.
During August-October, two-bedroom flats in the New Town and West End neighbourhoods saw their prices rise 15% year-on-year, while one-beds in Polwarth, Shandon and Tollcross increased by 9.4%.
Throughout 2021, Leith has consistently seen the highest levels of property sales, up 98% on 2020. With its trendy vibe, Leith has stormed the market as a frontrunner for first-time buyers and those looking for a more affordable home close to the city centre.
Paul Clancy, Property Director at Clancys Solicitors, agrees: “Clancys has noticed a continued surge in demand for flats in the Leith area. Dubbed one of the coolest neighbourhoods to live in, this vibrant district has a diverse range of property styles and types appealing to a wide audience. With a plethora of independent eateries, green spaces and strong transport links, we have found Leith to be one of the most popular areas for first time buyers and working professionals securing their next home.”
