Found along the coastlines of North-East Scotland, Aberdeenshire has a whole lot going for it. Not only does it offer some fantastic property opportunities, but it’s also home to a booming energy industry as well a haven for fans of outdoor pursuits.

Voted the happiest place in Scotland in 2012, Aberdeenshire is well known for its low crime rates, low unemployment and good standards of living, but also has a rich history which is reflected by its plethora of charming towns.

Property and Energy

Property prices in the area have followed a typical pattern of growth over the last ten years and have actually doubled since 2001, with the exception of the credit crunch in 2008 which affected property markets nationwide. This can be credited to the large amount of premium farmhouse and rural properties that attract affluent buyers worldwide, with many people opting to buy rather than rent.

The area has long attracted the attention of international buyers because of the large and prosperous oil industry that can be attributed to the Central North Sea just off the coast. Although there have been some recent doubts about the future of industry in the face of reduced prices and demand, a new oil field in the region has recently been discovered which will breathe new life and help maintain the jobs of the 30,000 people who work offshore.

Then there is the renewable energy industry which is coming further and further into focus as the government bows to pressure from environmental organisations.

The Granite City and Life in the Shire

Aberdeen itself is central to the success of the wider shire and has had one of the largest property price growths in the UK, over the last ten years. Property prices fell in the area by 17% in 2008, but Aberdeen itself stayed strong, with property prices within 20 miles of the city remaining stable.

Life in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire is generally described as being comfortable and pleasant, due largely to the amount of green space that the shire boasts, as well as the rich history that weaves through its towns and streets. Education and transport links to the shireare also in good standing, with direct trains to London and other Scottish cities regularly running, as well as an international airport that connects to over 30 European destinations.

Looking ahead

So what does the future hold for Aberdeenshire property? There are a lot of factors at play, which will undoubtedly have a range of impacts. Next year the SNP will enforce a new tax on property purchases that will see the middle and upper market paying more tax on their property purchases. Whilst this may cast doubt, the discovery of the new oil field and the continued expansion of the renewable energy market will help to sustain the levels of skilled workers in the area, and will contribute to the overall development of the shire as more investors get involved.

If you want to know more about Aberdeenshire, including property prices, transport links, education and regional highlights, please read our Aberdeenshire area guide. For other enquiries, why not look at our available properties or get in touch with our Banchory office who will be happy to answer any other questions.