How to Buy a House in Scotland as an American

A Guide on How to Buy a House in Scotland as an American

With interest from U.S. buyers at its highest in eight years, Scotland, and particularly Edinburgh, is fast becoming a prime destination for Americans seeking second homes, relocations, or long-term investments abroad. And with different property buying systems, many U.S buyers are looking for expert advice on how to buy a house in Scotland as an American.

According to This is Money, transatlantic demand is growing thanks to favourable exchange rates, better value than other major global cities, and a strong emotional connection with Scotland’s heritage. At Coulters, we work closely with U.S. based clients to help them navigate Scotland’s unique property system, identify the right area, and make confident, informed decisions.

Why More Americans Are Buying Homes in Edinburgh

Edinburgh appeals to American buyers on multiple fronts, from lifestyle to legacy, and from architecture to access.

Architecture, History and Quality of Life

Edinburgh’s UNESCO-listed Old and New Towns are renowned for their Georgian, Victorian and medieval buildings. The city combines rich heritage with a clean, safe, and walkable layout, ranked among the most liveable cities in Europe.

A Temperate Climate and Gateway to Europe

With milder summers than much of the U.S., Edinburgh offers a climate refuge from extreme heat. Its international airport provides quick access to both North America and mainland Europe, making it ideal for frequent travellers.

Value Compared to London and Other European Cities

Properties in Edinburgh are generally around 30-40% less expensive than in London, while offering many of the same cultural and economic advantages. Despite being the most expensive property market in Scotland, when compared to Paris, Dublin or Amsterdam, it remains an underpriced capital city with strong growth potential.

Ancestral Links and English-Speaking Advantage

Many American buyers have Scottish heritage and feel a personal connection to the country. The English-speaking environment and cultural familiarity also reduce barriers to entry and relocation.

How to Buy a House in Scotland vs America

In Scotland, most properties are marketed using an “offers over” pricing strategy, where the listed price is intentionally set below the expected final sale value to stimulate competitive bidding. This approach often results in more dynamic and open negotiations. Additionally, every property must come with a Home Report, an upfront document provided by the seller that includes a professional survey, a property valuation, and an energy efficiency assessment. This requirement increases transparency and reduces the risk of surprises for buyers later in the process.

For more information on Home Reports and how to navigate them, click here.

Another major advantage is the speed and certainty of the transaction. Once the legal contracts, known as “missives,” are agreed upon by both parties, the sale becomes legally binding, typically within six to eight weeks. This eliminates much of the uncertainty that can arise during property transactions in other countries. Furthermore, only licensed Scottish solicitors are permitted to make formal offers and manage the conveyancing process, ensuring professional oversight at every stage. Together, these features create a property market that many American buyers find refreshingly efficient, secure, and straightforward.

Best Places to Buy Property in Edinburgh for International Buyers

Different neighbourhoods appeal to different buyer profiles. Here are some of the most popular areas for overseas clients:

New Town – Classic Georgian townhouses and flats, ideal for investors and second-home owners.
West End – Elegant and quiet, with proximity to Haymarket Station and city amenities.
Stockbridge – A lively area with a village feel. Benefiting from an array of local cafés, restaurants and boutiques.
Morningside & Bruntsfield – Family-friendly suburbs with parks, schools, and a relaxed lifestyle.
Marchmont & The Grange – Tree-lined streets, excellent schools, and large period homes.
The Shore (Leith) – Edinburgh’s emerging creative and culinary district with attractive waterfront flats.

Choosing the right area depends on your goals—whether that’s rental yield, family life, lifestyle base, or long-term capital growth.

Property Finding Services in Scotland for Americans

The Scottish market moves quickly, and many properties sell before reaching major portals. For overseas buyers, this presents a challenge.

At Coulters, our property finding service is designed to help international buyers navigate the process of how to buy a house in Scotland as an American. Our property finding service offers:

Local representation for sourcing and viewing
Access to off-market opportunities
Guidance on pricing, legal steps, and tax
Recommendations for legal, financial, and FX services
A fully coordinated purchase experience from start to finish

Our Property Finding Agent, Peter Strang Steel, regularly assists U.S. clients and understands the unique nuances of transatlantic buying.

Find out more

Prime Homes for Sale in Scotland

9 Oxford Terrace, West End, Edinburgh

Offers Over £1,600,000

A rare opportunity to purchase a rarely available Victorian townhouse in one of Edinburgh’s most prestigious addresses. This five-bedroom home offers a harmonious blend of traditional elegance and modern luxury, with standout features.

View full listing | Enquire now

Aikwood Tower, Selkirk

Offers Over £1,350,000

Aikwood Tower is an exceptional 16th-century tower house, rising over four storeys with an attic floor. Granted to Robert Scott by King James V in 1517, the tower was likely constructed shortly after, potentially as early as 1535, though the exact completion date is unknown. It has remained within branches of the Scott Clan ever since. The sale includes this established and fully compliant short-term letting business, offering a turn-key opportunity for buyers interested in continuing commercial use.

View full listing | Enquire now

9 Polwarth Grove, Merchiston, Edinburgh

Offers Over £1,050,000

Tucked away on a quiet, leafy cul-de-sac sits 9 Polwarth Grove, an impressive, well-presented and spacious stone built Victorian five bedroom terraced house, spanning four wonderful floors (including a large basement). Located in the sought after area of Merchiston, this much loved home for over 40 years, well cared for by the current owners, elegantly embracing plentiful period features with style to create delightful, warm and welcoming spaces for all generations of the family.

View full listing | Enquire now

Inchdura House 13A Hamilton Road, North Berwick

Offers Over £1,100,000

Blink and you may miss the entrance to this wonderful, secluded Arts and Crafts six-bedroom main door double upper villa (built c.1896), spanning three elegant levels and offering over 3,500sqft of impressive, expansive accommodation. Situated just a stone’s throw from the beach on Hamilton Road, one of North Berwick’s most prestigious streets, the property has been a much-loved family home for over 14 years.

View full listing | Enquire now

About Peter Strang Steel

Peter brings over 20 years experience in prime residential property, having worked for some of the most high profile companies in the industry. During this time Peter has established himself as a well-respected figure in the Scottish property market.

In his role as Prime Property Consultant, Peter is passionate about providing a highly professional, personable and proactive service to his clients whether it be selling or sourcing prime properties on their behalf in Edinburgh, the Lothians or the Scottish Borders.

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How to Buy a House in Scotland: A Complete Guide

How to Buy a House in Scotland as an English Buyer

A Guide on How to Buy a House in Scotland as an American

Find A Home In Scotland

Why More Americans Are Buying Homes in Edinburgh

How to Buy a House in Scotland vs America

Best Places to Buy Property in Edinburgh for International Buyers

Property Finding Services in Scotland for Americans