On the move

Sponsored

Looking for a new home can be a pleasure, but it can also be time-consuming and stressful, especially if you’re moving to an area – or even a country – that you don’t know well. 

It’s a project with lots of moving parts, which many people just don’t have the time or inclination to manage.  That’s why those in the know seek out an expert property-sourcing consultant, to ensure it all goes to plan. 

Leah Bryce, of Leah Bryce Property Consulting set up her Edinburgh-based business just over two years ago. Since then, she has worked with many several high-net-worth property seekers, as well as internationally mobile families and professionals, to help them find and settle into the home of their dreams:   

“We are continuing to see a significant rise in international enquiries, particularly from clients relocating to Edinburgh,” she reveals:

“The city’s exceptional quality of life, world-class educational facilities and rich cultural heritage make it a prime destination for buyers, including young professionals, established executives, families and retirees.

“We are also experiencing demand from clients moving from England to Scotland. Seven of our ten most recent clients were based overseas or south of the border.”

Client preferences

Clients tend to know what they’re looking for – and it doesn’t involve the sound of hammering, the sight of scaffolding or other renovation disruption:

“A key trend at the moment is the preference for turnkey properties,” says Leah: “Our clients are increasingly prioritising homes that offer immediate comfort and sophistication over full renovation projects.

“At most, they may consider interior upgrades, such as new kitchens or bathrooms, and we often engage trusted interior designers to help guide them through this process. Well-designed properties with manageable gardens are also highly sought after.”

Clients also know where they want to be based, as Leah notes: “The majority of our clients seek properties within the Edinburgh city bypass area, drawn by the combination of convenience and good transport links; access to local amenities and schools; and proximity to parks and green spaces. “Popular hotspots include prestigious areas such as Bruntsfield, The Grange, Morningside, Stockbridge, the New Town and Murrayfield.

"There is also sustained interest in East Lothian, which appeals to clients looking for more space and close-knit communities, while still being within easy reach of the capital. These areas often provide larger homes or more generous interior space, without compromising on quality or lifestyle.”

While Edinburgh and the Lothians remain her primary focus, Leah operates across other parts of Scotland too, including the Borders, the Central Belt and sought-after coastal towns. In-demand locations also include Bridge of Allan, Dunblane, Dollar, Stirling’s Kings Park and St Andrews, as well as Aviemore, Kingussie and the Cairngorms – a popular area for main residences and second homes

When it comes to the type of homes that clients are seeking, certain categories crop up more often than others: “Period properties remain the most sought-after, with Georgian and Victorian homes consistently topping client wish lists. Our buyers are drawn to their distinctive character, generous proportions, history and architecture,” Leah confirms:

“We often hear clients describe their ideal properties as having a touch of quirky charm, reflecting their desire for individuality and personality in a home. While period properties dominate preferences, more recently we have been seeing a growing interest in new developments that are ready to move into yet set within historic properties. Clients like the combination of modern convenience and traditional elegance.

“They also typically prioritise homes that offer abundant natural light, generous proportions and a layout suited to modern living. Key features often include a second living area, a dedicated home office, a separate utility room and a manageable outdoor space that provides flexibility without excessive upkeep. Safety, convenience and a strong sense of community are also highly valued.

“Conversely, clients tend to avoid properties requiring significant structural work, those which can be challenging to access, or which feature layouts that feel dark or awkward. Locations prone to heavy traffic or road noise are generally avoided, and there is an increasing preference for smaller, easily maintained gardens.”

Building the business

Leah believes that there are a number of reasons why her services are in demand: “Clients value the peace of mind and clarity we provide throughout the home-purchasing process, from initial search through to completion.

“They appreciate the time and energy saved through our meticulous due diligence, discreet negotiation and structured, expert guidance, which transforms what can often be a complex process into a seamless, enjoyable experience.

“Our clients also benefit from access to a carefully curated network of trusted professionals and firms, including solicitors, private banks, tax advisers, immigration specialists, architects and interior designers, ensuring every detail of their purchase is handled with precision and discretion. We leave no stone unturned, to create a truly bespoke service. 

“Clients also tell us that they value our honesty, transparency and personalised approach, and knowing that we act as a dedicated partner, advocate and confidante throughout the journey into their new home.

“For international clients in particular, it’s about having someone ‘on the ground’ – an experienced, trusted partner, who understands the local landscape, culture and market dynamics.”

How it works

There is a significant amount of work involved on Leah’s part, starting with a comprehensive discovery meeting, to create the foundations for the search. During this stage, Leah explores the client’s needs, preferences, lifestyle, budget and long-term aspirations, to gain a clear understanding of what they’re looking for: “This step is essential to ensure the process is tailored from the outset,” she emphasises.

Each client ‘journey’ includes a written briefing document capturing priorities and objectives and a review of preferred areas, local amenities and schools if relevant. A bespoke property search, covering on-market, pre-market and off-market opportunities then takes place, followed by detailed reports to the clients. Leah then shortlists and arranges viewings and helps with negotiation strategy.

Her service involves managing every aspect of the property journey, from the initial conversation to the moment clients receive their keys. It also includes post-purchase check-ins and guidance where required, ensuring clients feel supported beyond completion:

“Our goal is to provide clients with a trusted adviser who listens attentively, filters options and protects their time and energy, while providing guidance, insight and support at every stage, explains Leah.

Reflecting on the progress of her business to date, she says: “Founding Leah Bryce Property Sourcing and creating a service that clients consider indispensable has been a defining achievement.

“Watching the business flourish while guiding clients seamlessly through often complex, high-stakes property journeys, often at pivotal moments in their lives, has been immensely rewarding.” 

Her accomplishments have not gone unnoticed. In 2025, Leah was named the winner of the Women in Legal and Property Award at the Business Women Connections (BWC) Edinburgh Athena Awards, which celebrate the achievements of women in business, across Edinburgh, Fife and East Lothian. The Women in Legal and Property Award recognises achievement, excellence and support for other women in the legal and property professions. 

Reporting on her plans for the future, Leah added: “My objective is to be the number-one, trusted source for discerning buyers seeking the very best of Scottish property.” 

www.leahbrycepropertysourcing.com

https://youtu.be/o9-XFaDauCY?si=YOWecUWW80-lMXzn