Edinburgh revealed as most popular location for buying property in Scotland

New research from the Mortgage Advice Bureau (MAB)’s MyMAB and Home Buying apps has revealed the most popular UK locations for prospective homebuyers between January 2021 and May 2025, with Edinburgh securing the top spot in Scotland.

For those looking further afield, the data showed that Croydon was the most sought-after location in England, with an average property price of £409,800 (London overall average: £421,000).  Edinburgh’s average price was recorded at £397,800, during this timeframe.

The majority of the UK’s prospective buyers are on the hunt for properties with either two or three bedrooms, whereas in Edinburgh and London, the preference is closer to two. This is seen as a direct response to high property prices, where smaller homes offer a more accessible entry point into the market. 

Scotland experienced a notable increase in average house prices between 2023 and

2024, likely driven by easing mortgage rates, coupled with an improved lending landscape. This led to enhanced affordability and a release of pent-up buyer demand following a prolonged period of higher interest rates. This trend aligns with the overall decrease in average property prices over the last 12 months, suggesting a stabilisation after the turbulent economic climate, MAB reported. 

Commenting on the UK-wide study, Rachel Geddes, MAB’s strategic lender relationship director said: “Our data paints a clear picture: buyer confidence and demand are soaring. With mortgage lenders constantly fine-tuning affordability stress testing and introducing new, innovative products, prospective buyers can borrow more than they could even compared to a few months ago.

“With the support and expertise of a mortgage broker, prospective buyers can discover what’s possible, placing themselves in the strongest possible position to have a place they can truly call their own.”

www.mortgageadvicebureau.com