Area Guide: Edinburgh

Edinburgh is the capital city of Scotland.

Along with finance and education, tourism is a huge element to the city’s economy. As a World Heritage Site, tourists from all over the world visit Edinburgh Castle. There are many planned events throughout the year including Edinburgh Festivals, attracting over 4 million visitors and generates over £100M for the local economy!

The city is well connected via public transport. Edinburgh airport is the busiest airport in Scotland, connecting millions of people to international destinations every year. For those looking to stay local, there is a comprehensive bus network linking areas of the city and suburbs. Or city goers can jump on a tram to avoid traffic congestion.

Why buy in Edinburgh?

With picturesque coastlines and rolling hills, Edinburgh continues to be a popular location for home buyers.

The quieter suburbs are a fantastic location for growing families, with a vast choice of well respected schools. It also has a bustling city centre, full of job opportunities for young professionals.

The city offers a wide range of job opportunities. Including finance, technology and the creative sector. Edinburgh is home to major companies headquarters like Natwest Group and Tesco Bank. The city is also a base for other well-known companies like Microsoft, Amazon, Adobe and IBM. The city thrives on independent shops including cafes and boutiques too.

Edinburgh has 135 schools, from nursery to secondary. Many students travel from across the world to attend University of Edinburgh, specialising in History, Economics and Biology.

There are many perks to buying a new build home, especially in Edinburgh. With sustainable building materials and renewable energy sources heating the houses, homeowners can expect lower utility bills, compared to older properties.

New build properties in and around Edinburgh have proven popular on the resale market. Properties are shifting steadily within the city and whilst many factors can influence this, pricing is generally strong.

View all new homes in Edinburgh.

Top new build areas around Edinburgh

Gilmerton

Located in the southeast of the city centre, Gilmerton was a thriving mining community. Known for coal and lime working. In more recent years, the town has become best known for ‘Gilmerton Cove’. A location that puzzles historians, as its purpose is still unknown. Gilmerton is a popular location for home buyers due to its close proximity to Edinburgh, whilst being able to enjoy the quieter suburbs.

Musselburgh

On the coast of the Firth of Forth, Musselburgh is located east of Edinburgh city centre. The town is served by two railway stations. Allowing quick access into Edinburgh and surrounding towns. It is a wonderful family location. There are numerous schools for all ages, including private boarding schools and private nurseries for pre-school aged children.

Bonnyrigg

Bonnyrigg is south of Edinburgh city centre. Attracting visitors from far and wide is Dalhousie Castle and Spa. A 13th century castle, offering luxury spa treatments, historic tours and afternoon tea. Bonnyrigg is a popular location for commuters. With regular bus routes and a nearby train station taking you straight into the centre of Edinburgh. With Edinburgh airport only being 30 minutes away, it’s the perfect location for jet setters too!

Auchendinny

Directly south of Edinburgh is Auchendinny. A stunning rural location surrounded by green public spaces and rolling hills. Before shutting its doors for a final time in 2005, Auchendinny was best known as a paper-mill village. Whilst it is a small village, it is full of family friendly attractions. Including a zoo, theme parks and snow sports centre.

Incentives

There are many Government Support and incentives available throughout Scotland but they can differ between developers. In Scotland, first-time buyers will not pay Land and Buildings Transaction Tax (LBTT) on the first £175k of a home’s value.

LIFT Scheme (Low-cost initiative for first-time buyers). The LIFT Scheme proves popular with first-time buyers. For those who qualify, this incentive will contribute between 10% & 40% of the purchase price whilst the buyer will find the rest via a deposit and mortgage.

NSSE (New Supply Shared Equity). This scheme is aimed at first-time buyers and priority access groups including those aged 60+, members of the armed forces and social renters. Whilst the buyer will purchase the majority of the house, usually between 60% - 80%, the Scottish government will help fund the remainder of the property. This scheme is aimed at households with a low to medium income. The local council or social landlord will access your application.

Whilst developer incentives can differ between each development, incentives may include: Deposit Paid/Contribution, Stamp Duty Contribution, Legal Fee Contributions and Part-Exchange. We recommend enquiring with the development you are interested in to see what they can offer.

Development Spotlight

Bellway at Shawfair, Edinburgh, EH16 4SJ. A development of 3, 4 & 5 bedroom houses. An ideal location for families, the development is close to a number of well-regarded local schools for all ages. Transport connections in the area are excellent, with easy access to a well-connected motorway network and good public transport services. Bellway is committed to a greener, more environmentally friendly way of buildings. Buyers can save up to 50% on their utility bills.

Tram Sheds at The Engine Yard by Places For People, Edinburgh, EH7 4RB. A development of 1, 2 & 3 bedroom properties. The Tram Sheds is the final phase of industrial-style apartments nestled within the thoughtfully restored, iconic historic tram depot in vibrant Leith. Recently recognised as Scotland’s Award-Winning Renovation of the Year 2024, it blends modern living with rich heritage. Just a two minute walk to the tram link for travel into the city centre.

West Craigs by Cala Homes, Edinburgh, EH12 0AX. A development of 3 bedroom apartments and 3, 4 & 5 bedroom houses. Positioned by attractive park areas and open spaces, within easy reach of a future primary school. Perfect for families. There is an excellent specification as standard, so no need to budget for any extras! The sales office is open daily from 10:00 for show home viewings. The development is well connected via public transport. Tram, rail, bus and road links are all easily accessible - easy access into Edinburgh City Centre.

Cammo Meadows Apartments by David Wilson Homes, Edinburgh, EH4 8FD. A development of 2 & 3 bedroom apartments. These high-spec open plan apartments are perfect for first-time buyers. Ground floor apartments have outdoor patios whilst selected plots feature a private balcony. All blocks have lifts and secure entry phone systems. There is a nearby supermarket and shopping centre. Sales office is open Thursday - Monday from 10:00