Scotland’s proposed new Council Tax bands: what could it mean for Edinburgh’s prime property market?
The Scottish Government is currently consulting on plans to introduce two new Council Tax bands for higher-value homes, a proposal that has quickly become known as Scotland’s version of a ‘mansion tax’. The consultation runs until 24 August and, if approved by Parliament, the changes would come into force from April 2028. Under the proposals, […]
Thinking of Moving This Summer? Edinburgh’s Property Market Might Surprise You
With the school holidays in full swing and Edinburgh gearing up for another busy Festival season, you could be forgiven for thinking summer isn’t the ideal time to buy or sell a home. In reality, the opposite is often true. Early summer is typically a busy period for the property market, with strong buyer demand […]
VMH staff: Favourite Local Strolls
There are many secret gardens right on our doorstep, just off the Canongate, where you can step away from the cobbles and into hidden courtyards and manicured formal gardens. Incredibly peaceful and completely shielded from street traffic, Dunbar’s Close Garden is a flat, secluded 17th-century knot garden filled with shaded parterres, mature trees and gravel […]
The “Tourist Tax”: What You Need To Know
Today’s the day the Transient Visitor Levy – often called the Tourist Tax – takes full effect in Edinburgh. What is it, and what does it mean for the city’s housing market? Our latest Blog takes a look. Edinburgh’s built environment tells the story of our city – from the tall tenements of the Old […]
Q&A With Alex Aitken
We recently welcomed Trainee Solicitor, Alex Aitken, to the team in Sibbald Walk. A new face means a new set of Q&As posed to find out more about the latest recruit! Did you always want to become involved in the legal profession? “There was always an idea of doing Law for me, but I didn’t […]
Can we trust in the Trusts & Succession (Scotland) Act 2024?
When the Trusts & Succession (Scotland) Act 2024 was given Royal Assent – i.e. was formally approved, on 30 January 2024 – it was hailed as a revelation. A massive step towards modernising Scots Law in the fields of both inheritance and the administration of Trusts. It was seen as a way of bringing the […]
Q&A With Joan McAuley
There’s a new face ready to welcome you to the VMH offices in Sibbald Walk – meet Residential Property Valuer Joan McAuley. Did you always want to become involved in the property profession? “When I was a child I most likely wanted to be a figure skater or an artist/designer! I have had different careers […]
VMH40: Edinburgh house prices 1986 to 2026
Over the last 40 years, Edinburgh’s average house prices have surged from around £35,000 in the mid 1980s to over £300,000 today, according to Registers of Scotland and espc. When VMH started in business, in 1986, wider access to mortgages and the Right to Buy scheme led to a steady price appreciation. By 1990, the […]
VMH40: Partnering with Barr Printers
Throughout our 40 years of business, we’ve enjoyed supportive partnerships with a number of firms. One of our longest associations has been with Barr Printers – themselves in business for over 40 years – who have helped us with everything from folders to business cards to letterheads. Their expert staff have always been on hand […]
VMH 40: Edinburgh in 1986
In celebration of our 40th anniversary this year, we’re taking a look back at Edinburgh in 1986. The big news that year – apart from VMH opening their offices! – was the XIII Commonwealth Games, held in Edinburgh, where Scotland secured five golds in a 33-medal tally, including Liz McColgan winning the first-ever women’s 10,000m […]
VMH 40: Pauline Williamson
As we celebrate our 40th year in business, we’re also marking another very special ruby anniversary with Pauline Williamson, from our Legal Team, who clocks up 40 years with VMH in October – officially our longest serving member of staff! We caught up with Pauline to look back and learn more about her time with […]
What makes up a Home Report?
A Home Report is commissioned by a Seller for the benefit of the Purchaser and their lenders. It is a legal requirement in Scotland and must be obtained before you can market your property. Home Reports have been compulsory in Scotland since their introduction in 2008. There are some exceptions to this rule, for example […]
Meet Emma Howie-Smith
The VMH family has been growing, and we recently welcomed new Admin Assistant, Emma Howie-Smith, to HQ in Sibbald Walk. Time to find out a bit more about her! What was your first job when you left school? “I had a few! From a local picture framing shop when I was at school to M&S […]
VMH Area Focus: Musselburgh
A winning combination of charming coastal location and historic town atmosphere, with easy access to Edinburgh, makes the East Lothian town of Musselburgh an attractive choice for those looking to purchase all kinds of property from traditional seaside flats to larger, more modern family homes with gardens. Known as ‘The Honest Toun’ – a motto […]
VMH Area Focus: Meikleour
The tranquil Perthshire conservation village of Meikleour is set in an area of stunning natural beauty, rich in history, with many outdoor activities on its doorstep and within easy access of shops, schools and transport links. Situated a short drive from the River Tay, the location affords beautiful views, riverside walks and renowned salmon fishing. […]
2025 Property Round-Up
As the year draws to a close, we asked our Director Kevin McLuskey and Property Sales Director Katie MacDonald for their thoughts on the last twelve months of property activity in the city of Edinburgh. Katie remarked, “ESPC stats show in terms of volume the top three performing districts in Edinburgh this year, to date, […]