"Rising rents are encouraging more households to consider buying, and the Scottish Parliament’s recent vote to allow councils to introduce rent controls, with some exemptions, may further influence market dynamics"
- Scott Jack - Walker Fraser Steele
The Scottish housing market recorded modest gains in August, with average prices rising £1,900 compared with July, according to the latest Walker Fraser Steele Acadata House Price Index. The increase brings the average price to £231,600, just below the record high of £231,641 set in April.
Annual growth across Scotland remains strong, outpacing the rest of the UK. Prices are 2.3% higher than a year ago, continuing a positive trend seen throughout 2025. In August, 19 of Scotland’s 32 local authority areas reported price increases, and four set new record highs. Glasgow and East Ayrshire have experienced price growth every month so far this year.
“While prices are holding firm, the rental market is adding pressure,” said Scott Jack, regional development director at Walker Fraser Steele. “Rising rents are encouraging more households to consider buying, and the Scottish Parliament’s recent vote to allow councils to introduce rent controls, with some exemptions, may further influence market dynamics. Sales volumes remain mixed, and with affordability still stretched, the outlook for activity remains uncertain.”
Despite being more resilient than housing markets south of the border, Scotland faces similar challenges. Uncertainty around the potential impacts of the UK budget due in late November, limited borrower confidence, and the ongoing cost-of-living squeeze are all affecting the market. Although mortgage interest rates have eased, they remain high by recent standards.
