Why Build to Rent in Glasgow is booming
- 27th Apr 22
Glasgow is a bustling metropolis and Scotland’s most populous city. The Build to Rent pipeline in Scotland continues to increase with Glasgow making up half of the supply, followed by Edinburgh and Aberdeen. We look at factors behind the boom.
Investment in Glasgow
Glasgow has attracted the interest of some of the biggest financial institutions in the world. Major UK, American and Middle East investment corporations have their sights set onto the property rental market, primarily the Build to Rent sector. In fact, analysis published by the British Property Federation has shown that the number of Build to Rent homes completed, under constructions or in planning across Scotland, rose by 19% in 2021 to 12,793.
Why Glasgow
The population of Glasgow city is 626,400 although the wider Greater Glasgow area has a population of around 1.8 million. The city also has the largest economy in Scotland and the fourth largest economy in the whole of the UK. Currently, there is a housing crisis in Scotland and Build to Rent is going to play a critical role in enhancing quality and choice in the rental sector.
What’s available
Some of the biggest names in the Build to Rent sector have moved into Glasgow to offer modern city living complete with a range of amenities. You can find apartments from Moda, Get Living, Buchanan Wharf and Platform. It is hoped that this will help to plug the gap between the number of Build to Rent homes completed in Scotland compared to the rest of the UK.
How Build to Rent made its mark
With more than 350,000 private rented households in Scotland, the sector plays a crucial role in the housing system. During the lockdowns, the reputation of the landlord came under scrutiny and against this backdrop, Build to Rent emerged as offering many advantages. These included:
- High speed broadband service to cope with homeworking and schooling.
- A centralised management to offer high quality customer service.
- Delivery lockers and cool rooms to allow for contactless delivery.
- Excellent maintenance for easy repairs and replacements.
- Existing communication channels with residents was built upon further to offer community online meet ups and a chance to remain socially connected.
Where to live in Glasgow
Fantastic shopping, a range of cultural activities and a cosmopolitan dining culture are just a few of the reasons why Glasgow is a popular place to call home. Compared to other major cities such as London, the commutes to work are short and the standard of living is high.
Bearsden – popular with families, expect to find quality schools and desirable properties. The area is in the northwest of Glasgow.
West End – a firm favourite with Glaswegians, you can enjoy the best that Glasgow has to offer.
East End – full of character, you will find reasonably priced homes that are well located to reach other parts of the city by train or bus.
Southside – check out the sandstone architecture that features throughout this neighbourhood. Fantastic area to enjoy Glasgow’s thriving food scene along with plenty of shopping and wonderful schools.
Hillhead – young professionals and families are drawn to this area. A hotspot in terms of the stylish amenities it offers, Hillhead is a great alternative to the West End.
Shawlands – a rejuvenated part of the city with an urban vibe. With many more jobs and commerce coming to the area, this is a good time to get in on the action.
Places to visit in Glasgow
City Centre Mural Trail – admire urban artwork by acclaimed street artists.
Hunterian Museum and Art Gallery – Scotland’s oldest public museum packed with wonders from art, science and history.
House for an Art Lover – a legacy created by the seminal Scottish architect, designer, and artist Charles Rennie Mackintosh.
Glasgow Botanic Gardens – 50 acres of leafy parkland in the heart of the West End.
Glasgow City Music Tours – walking tours of Glasgow’s musical heritage.