How do I find accommodation?

Renting

Estate agents and letting agents can help you when looking for rented property. They will show you any suitable properties they have and guide you through the whole process. 

If you are planning to rent a property when you move to Scotland it is a good idea to be aware of your rights and seek advice. For more information visit Better Renting Scotland.

When looking at a property use this handy checklist from S1homes.com to decide if it's value for money.

For more information on finding a place to live visit Shelter Scotland.

Buying

Details of properties for sale can be found from a number of sources.

  • Most properties in Scotland are sold through solicitors (lawyers) or estate agents
  • Websites advertise properties for sale countrywide, either privately or through estate agents
  • The average price for a residential property in Scotland can be found at Registers of Scotland

The Scottish Solicitors' Property Centres site gives a list of properties for sale

View the Scottish Government's guide to purchasing a house in Scotland (PDF)  

Local authority housing

In Scotland, each Local Authority (Council) either has its own housing or has access to rented housing owned by housing associations. This is commonly known as council or local authority housing.

Most people moving to Scotland from overseas, particularly from non EEA countries, are unlikely to be entitled to this type of housing.

Once you know where you are going to be living in Scotland, you should contact your local authority to find out whether or not you are entitled to council housing.

Find your local authority at the Convention of Scottish Local Authorities

Housing associations

Registered housing associations are non-profit making friendly societies.

Some housing associations specialise in providing homes for particular groups such as single or elderly people. Others provide more general accommodation.

You can find the names and addresses of housing associations and the client groups they cater for are available from:

Scottish Housing Regulator 

Scottish Federation of Housing Associations