15 Mar 2016
Sharp rise in number of new homes for first time buyers
The number of affordable homes being built in Scotland has risen, according to new figures.
Across all house types, over 16,000 new homes were completed in the year to September 2015, a 4% rise on the previous year.
The Scottish Government said that its 30,000 affordable homes target has been surpassed as a result, delivering 31,034 homes including 21,000 for social rent, of which 5,500 were council homes.
The number of private sector homes started in the year jumped to more than 13,300, a rise of 10% on the previous year.
The homes completed in Scotland in the year ending September 2015 equates to a rate of 30 homes per 10,000 people in Scotland compared to 25 in England, 21 in Wales, and 28 in Northern Ireland.
£3billion investment
Housing Minister Margaret Burgess said: “As these positive figures illustrate, our increased investment in house building has helped stimulate a welcome rise in completions across all types of homes.
“This is a team effort; we will continue to work with all sectors to promote the building of new homes and support jobs in the construction industry.
“We have a strong record on housing, having exceeded our target of delivering 30,000 affordable homes in this Parliamentary term.
“Over the next five years we have committed to delivering at least 50,000 affordable homes, which represents a 67 per cent increase on our current target, backed up with investment of more than £3 billion.”
Help for young buyers
Aberdein Considine is currently running a major nationwide campaign to help young people on to the property ladder.
Between February 1st and April 30th 2016, first time buyers are being given a 50% discount on their legal fees, saving them hundreds of pounds.
Our independent financial advisers can also offer access to thousands of mortgages.
If you would like to speak to one of our property experts, call 0333 0066 333 or click here.