Signs of stability at the prime end of the Scottish commercial property market – Scottish Business News

THERE are signs that we are finding some stability at the prime end of the commercial property market in Scotland, according to the latest figures published by leading independent property advisory firm, Lismore Real Estate Advisors.

It was a positive quarter with transaction volumes totalling £426 million, up 7% from Q3 2023 and 16% above the five-year average, resulting in the highest Q3 total over the last five years.

There have been significant deals in the office and logistics sectors, giving investors’ confidence that, for the right product, pricing in the prime sector is finding its level.

Key transactions included Pontegadea’s £42.5 million acquisition of The Mint Building, a prime office in Edinburgh, from Hines HECF Sarl. In Glasgow, Aviva acquired a direct-let PBSA at Gilbert Street from PVP Developments for £23 million and the largest deal of the quarter was Iroko Zen’s £50.4 million acquisition of 122 Waterloo Street from KFIM. The building is let to Morgan Stanley. 

The sale of award-winning Belgrave Logistics Park in Bellshill was also concluded during September. The park was speculatively developed by Knight Property Group, with tenants Wincanton, Likewise Group, RES & Bunzl.

Lismore Associate Chris Thornton said:

“Change is in the air and we have not seen this sort of pricing in the market for several years and while it is very much focused at the prime end of the market, off reversionary rents with strong ESG credentials, it does feel like a watershed moment.

“We are seeing more solidity in pricing and even some hardening but very specifically focused at the very prime end of sectors. “Recent high-profile sales have established stronger pricing for Edinburgh offices, central belt logistics, and long-leased PBSA has found a new stronger level. 

“We are also witnessing corporate M&A activity increasing, which is motivating sellers as portfolios are reshaped, to align with their sector-specific and wider strategic goals.

“In addition, improved lending conditions, with five-year swap rates around 3.5%, and lower margins, is making debt more attractive for high-quality assets. For the first time in several years, UK Funds are re-entering the market, acquiring prime properties across a range of sectors including supermarkets, logistics and PBSA. 

“The Housing (Scotland) Bill may reinvigorate BTR investment, while on-going struggles with contractors could stall new developments, enhancing demand for value-add assets. Finally a shift in the political landscape is also helping to put Scotland back on the map.”