2016 Property Highlights

The Scottish property market experienced a buoyant 2016, with increasing levels of buyer demand and sales values, most notably in the central belt. The lettings market in Glasgow has also been positive and is proving particularly rewarding for landlords in the West End. At Vanilla Square, we’ve had a number of impressive sales and lets over the past 12 months, some of which we share with you below.

Property Sales

Millbank, Florence Drive, Kilmacolm

A beautiful extended family home in established grounds in Kilmacolm, this property had been on the market with another agent for almost a year before the client approached us for help. We remarketed the property with an extensive and targeted campaign, which generated good interest and secured and offer and entry day that suited both the client and buyer. A prime example that agent experience and a carefully considered marketing approach are more important than a local branch.

Haggs Road, Pollock Country Park, South Side

Due to our expert knowledge and friendly, proactive approach, the owner of this unique, semi-detached villa in the South Side of Glasgow chose Vanilla Square to achieve a successful sale in line with their expectations. The original Home Report was disappointing, so the client sought a further report which supported our own valuation. We marketed the property aggressively and secured a closing date with 7 offers. With a final sale price exceeding the client’s highest expectations, the entire transaction was seamless. As a result of this experience, the client proceeded to market and sell a second property in the West End through Vanilla Square.

Lancaster Crescent, Kelvinside, West End

This stunning lower conversion in a prime West End location had been marketed for sale a few years ago by another agent. Unfortunately, they failed to secure significant interest. Subsequently, Vanilla Square found a great tenant who remained in the property for a considerable period or time, and last year were were appointed to sell the flat. With a unique, handcrafted Paul Hodgkiss kitchen, beautiful period features and access to secluded rear gardens, the property was sold within a few weeks for above the Home Report valuation. 

Sunbury Place, Dean Village, Edinburgh 

Further proof that our office location does not affect our ability to sell outside of Glasgow, we were asked by an existing client to sell this Edinburgh property. Having been impressed by our services and success selling their Glasgow property, the client struggled to find the same high-value service from a local agent and was keen to work with us again. Due to our focussed marketing techniques, the property was sold within just two weeks for the full Home Report value. 

Byres Road, Hillhead, West End 

One of our more unusual sales – a leasehold property on Byres Road with approximately 80 years left on the lease. A superb investment with the potential to generate almost £10,000 per year, this two bedroom duplex apartment with private parking enjoys elevated views across Hillhead and along Byres Road. With a closing date set three days before Christmas. we secured over 40 viewers during December and sold the property for almost 40% above the Home Report value!

Crown Road North, Dowanhill, West End

An incredible upper duplex conversion set within a converted townhouse in the highly desirable West End neighbourhood of Dowanhill. Featuring a stunning and unusual barrel-vaulted ceiling, this beautiful two bedroom property is full of character. Vanilla Square was appointed over several larger national agents due to our personal approach and acute attention to detail. Viewings were conducted by one of our directors, and the property was sold at closing date for 10% over the Home Report value to a buyer sourced from London. 

Property Rentals

Boghall House, Craigmaddie Road, Milngavie

Situated in the hamlet of Baldernock on the outskirts of Glasgow, this stunning, three-storey Edwardian country house sits in two acres of beautifully maintained formal gardens, in addition to 67 acres of agricultural land. Full of original character and charm, we managed to secure a tenant who immediately fell in love with the property, so much so that  they are keen to upgrade and improve the accommodation during their stay. A simple, stress-free rental for the landlord and some very happy tenants.

62 Saltoun Street, Dowanhill 

This beautiful, stylish penthouse apartment within the popular Millennium Point development is located just off Byres Road – a peaceful location enjoying a leafy backdrop, yet conveniently situated for a wealth of local amenities in the bustling West End, including shops, restaurants, bars, cafes, schools and public transport. This property came to us as a result of our successful track record with sales and lets in the development, having previously sold three apartments and rented out two. Well maintained and presented to the market at an exceptionally high standard, we received significant interest in this flat and agreed a valuable rental agreement within a very short period of time.

Athole Gardens, Dowanhill 

After inviting 5 separate letting agents to view this sunny, three bedroom, top-floor property in Dowanhill, the landlord chose Vanilla Square due to our impressive track record and successful experience with similar high-value rentals in the area. Our valuation was also the highest – and we acquired the perfect tenant, within a short period of time, who was more than happy to pay our accurate and valuable rental price. Whilst it’s not advisable to simply go with the agent who proposes the highest valuation, our expertise and in-depth knowledge of the West End property market enables us to make reliable valuations, maximise our clients return on investment and secure the very best tenants.

Lorraine Gardens, Dowanhill 

This stunning three bedroom property in the heart of the West End was let in under a week. Situated on a charming tree-lined street in Dowanhill, the apartment is full of character and attracted a number of applications in a short period of time. Needless to say, the client was delighted to find the perfect tenant and have a let agreed in just a few days. .

Vanilla Square – highly personal sales and lettings!

Whether selling or letting property, you will always be liaising with one of our business partners, which makes our service that much more responsible and approachable. When you instruct us, your property will reach a wider audience as we are one of the few agents who are present on all the major property portals to offer sellers and landlords maximum exposure. If you’re looking to buy, sell, rent or lease your property, or you’re simply considering the idea, contact us by calling 0141 229 0210 or pop into our new office at 711 Great Western Road. One of our partners will be delighted to help and provide you with impartial, expert advice.