Excellent transport links and amenities, access to green space and a community culture are all features of locations most desired by Glasgow’s young professionals.

As with any city, affordability is key, and as many areas become increasingly established, young professionals (see table, below) are looking beyond the traditional locations to find the next up-and-coming location.

The hotspots

Merchant City

Its central location, just to the east of Glasgow’s city centre, and strong leisure offering around Merchant Square make Merchant City a popular choice with young professionals and investors alike.

At £157,636, the average transaction value in 2015 put Merchant City at the upper end of affordability for first-time buyers, yet the area is also popular with buy-to-let investors resulting in a large rental sector here.

West End

Despite relatively similar levels of renting and owner occupation among young professionals, two different markets have emerged in Glasgow’s West End.

Within the desirable G12 areas of Dowanhill, Hillhead and Hyndland, average transaction values are £271,404, the highest of all areas. This reflects its prime location and varied property types, with townhouses and large conversions being more prevalent.

In G11 postcodes, covering Partick, Partickhill and Thornwood, the average residential transaction values are slightly more affordable than in G12 at £164,260. Yet this has not resulted in higher levels of owner occupation, and the market has not yet realised the full potential of these areas.

Shawlands

Shawlands, in the Southside, fulfils young professionals’ requirements, providing appropriate accommodation, strong transport links, access to green space and a lively bar and restaurant scene. This has resulted in an equal share of private rental and home ownership among 25 to 29-year-olds here.

While it is a popular rental spot, there is also considerable first-time buyer demand, with an attainable average transaction value of £134,620 in 2015.

Finnieston

Due to its location half way between the city centre and the West End, Finnieston has historically been a popular rental area. It previously gained a reputation over the years for dilapidated properties and run-down commercial units, however recently it has witnessed a resurgence, with the opening of a number of boutiques, bars and restaurants along Argyle Street. This combined with a new major music venue, the Glasgow Hydro, has regenerated the area into one of the most desirable parts of the city.

Values have increased 10 per cent year on year, and an average value of £159,095 in 2015 places Finnieston on par with its more established neighbour G11, where year-on-year growth was static. Properties in this area are therefore in high demand, though affordability is starting to become stretched.

Up and coming

Dennistoun

Dennistoun is located to the east of the city centre, just beyond the Merchant City, and has a reputation for affordable rents within walking distance of the city centre.

The opening of the Drygate Brewery and renovation of the Tenants brewery, along with an increasing number of independent restaurants, have drawn people into Dennistoun and brought their attention to the area’s excellent combination of accessibility, parks and culture.

These benefits continue to attract those seeking value for money and with an average transaction value of £98,271 in 2015, it is very much within first-time buyer’s budgets. The annual average transaction value has consequently increased by more than 11 per cent, or almost £10,000, as the market recognises Dennistoun’s potential.

Further information

Contact Savills Glasgow or view available properties for sale in Glasgow