In this episode of the Scottish Property Podcast, Nick and Steven sit down with Neil Dymock to break down the latest developments in the Scottish and wider UK property markets. From falling rents in Dundee to the impact of government taxes, Neil provides valuable insights for landlords, investors, and anyone keeping an eye on where the market is heading.
🎙️ Episode Highlights:
🏘️ Dundee Rental Market
Dundee rents are down 9.9% – the only Scottish city to see a drop
Why Neil sees this as a market correction after rents became unaffordable
Despite falling rents, yields for investors remain strong
🎓 Impact of Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA)
Growth of PBSA is reshaping Dundee’s HMO market
Surplus of student accommodation, with more still being proposed
Why foreign students prefer PBSA for flexibility and bundled costs
🏡 UK & Scottish Property Sales
UK house prices: down 1.3% monthly, up 0.3% year-on-year
Scotland outperforming the rest of the UK with 2.6% growth over 12 months
Surge in Dundee first-time buyers boosting local demand
💰 Government Taxes & Policy
LBTT (Land and Building Transaction Tax) as a major barrier to downsizing
ADS (Additional Dwelling Supplement) at 8% deterring many small investors
Record £714m in Scottish property tax revenue, with ADS contributing 31%
📊 Landlord Trends & Market Shifts
One in three landlords considering exiting the market
Private rental sector still growing, driven by professional portfolio landlords
Self-managed landlords struggling with legislation, benefiting letting agents
⚖️ Potential New Tax – NI Contributions on Rental Income
Government considering an 8% National Insurance levy on rental income
Would apply to personally held properties, raising £2.18bn
What this could mean for landlords and the wider market
The discussion covers everything from the growth of purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) and its effect on HMOs, to landlord trends, tax policy changes, and the possibility of a new National Insurance levy on rental income. This is a must-listen for anyone wanting to stay ahead in a rapidly changing property landscape.