ESPC: Most regions enjoy increase in average selling price

The average selling price of property in Edinburgh, the Lothians, Fife and the Borders was £283,912 in January-March 2025, an annual increase of 6.1 per cent.
In the capital, there was a notable jump of 6.8 per cent, resulting in a new average selling price in Edinburgh of £304,064. Taking a more granular look at the performance of the property market in the capital, it becomes apparent that the north-west of the city had a notable increase in the average selling price.
Midlothian and the Borders experienced healthy increases in the average selling price, rising 3.2 per cent and 3.8 per cent respectively. Recording a new average selling price of £217,517, making it the most affordable region, West Fife & Kinross experienced a modest year-on-year increase of 0.8 per cent.
Elsewhere, East Fife saw a 13.8 per cent increase year-on-year and there was also significant growth in West Lothian, where average selling prices increased 9.5 per cent to £290,751. The only region bucking the positive trend was East Lothian, which saw a slight decrease of 1.9 per cent compared to the previous year, which is likely due to an increase in sales of 1- and 2-bed flats in Musselburgh.
Encompassing popular commuter towns such as South Queensferry, Kirkliston and Dalmeny, the area recorded an 18.1 per cent increase year on year, resulting in a new average house price of £309,287. In the city centre, home to desirable locations such as Stockbridge, Old Town and Tollcross, the average house price rose to £352,568, an increase of 11.7 per cent compared to last year.
Dunfermline offered more affordable options than many other areas, with an average selling price of £219,589 - a 6.9 per cent increase on the same time last year. One- and two-bedroom flats in the city were among the most budget-friendly properties available, with average selling prices of £89,813 and £154,406 respectively, making them an ideal choice for first-time buyers or those in the earlier stages of their property journey.
ESPC CEO Paul Hilton said: “The first quarter of 2025 presents a consistent picture for the property market, with the trends of the past few months continuing. We are certainly seeing a market that is strong for buyers, with plenty of options available, reduced expectations to pay high premiums, fewer closing dates and longer selling times, giving househunters ample opportunity to shop around to find their ideal home. There is plenty of interest and activity among property buyers, but with a steady flow of properties on the market, it allows for calmer seas for those in a position to purchase.
“It’s also fantastic to see a continuing rise in sales volumes, providing clear evidence that the market is thriving, giving sellers strong confidence and a positive outlook as they navigate their property sales.
“Sales volumes in the capital continue to grow at a steady rate, with ever-popular Leith appealing to young professionals and first-time buyers, while Corstorphine remains highly desirable for families. Demand is also particularly high in Midlothian and West Fife and Kinross as buyers continue the trend of seeking larger more affordable homes with an easy commute to the Capital.”