A very warm welcome to our 1st newsletter of 2010, the start of a new decade and a property landscape that has changed immeasurably since the financial crisis back in late 2007.

As Managing Director of Scotland's leading independent estate agents I'm frequently asked about my predictions for the next 12 months, not just from homeowners looking to move but increasingly from the media looking to make sense of a property market that is constantly changing.

It seems that there's not a week goes by without headline grabbing commentary that prices will rise, followed by the inevitable tales of woe that it could take years for the market to recover.

The fact is most predictions are based on too general an overview of the market. What happens in London and the South East of England for example, really bears no relevance to West Central Scotland.

Yes prices in certain parts of Scotland are definitely increasing whilst in other areas they remain static - it's very much down to every local area having its own very unique market. A number of lenders certainly have certainly reported increases in house prices; however this can be seen as a lack of available properties for sale with more buyers chasing fewer properties. Supply and demand invariably determines property values, and the availability of affordable finance.

At Clyde we are definitely noticing a positive change in attitude from both buyers and sellers alike.

A renewed sense of optimism. A feeling that 2010 will mark a turning point.

Unemployment is falling (Scotland has less unemployment per head than the rest of the UK) and we are officially out of recession. The actual cost of borrowing is at historically low levels.

The new build market is picking up with more recorded visits to showhomes whilst at Clyde we have been very active in pre-sale valuations across all our offices.

There is an underlying sentiment that there are opportunities out there, and that potential buyers are beginning to react to a more favorable regime of realistic pricing and much better mortgage deals.

My forecast for 2010 would be one of prices remaining fairly static. There will be areas that see prices increase, albeit for the very best homes. Selling times will be reduced whilst the crucial first time buyer market will definitely improve as Banks and Building societies relax their lending criteria.

Buyers are now looking much more at the long term, and are better educated, and less willing to compromise. This will invariably result in a more cautious approach to buying and selling, and a return to what we would all wish for. A much more stable market, a much more transparent pricing structure and where true value is quantifiable.

Whether you're looking to buy, sell or rent this year, there is, and will be, plenty to look forward to.

Think carefully, choose wisely and above everything else, use an agent you can trust.

Clyde Property. The right choice.

We look forward to being of service in 2010.

Best Regards
Gary Thomson
Managing Director

In what can be seen as a positive start to the year Clyde have recorded a huge increase in potential buyers registering on our Homes by E-Mail over the same period last year and in 2008.

This has been an encouraging start to the year, particularly in light of the Arctic weather that forced many people off the streets and into the comfort of their own home to look for their new property on the Internet.

Clyde's website attracts thousands of potential buyers and we were recently the only estate agent to have been a finalist at the highly prestigious Digital Awards for Scotland. Our site is not only a testament to the investment and forward thinking we continually implement but a benchmark in optimisation, content and usability.

Our latest statistics are immensely encouraging - over 2500 new applicants have subscribed to our Homes by E-Mail in January with a further 1800 in the first two weeks of February. The volume of new enquiries for all types of properties is also reflected in our current levels of viewing activity, up by 39% on this time last year.

The Internet has revolutionised the way property is bought and sold and web marketing is constantly evolving. We have embraced a new media age with our own website and continue to attract record numbers of visitors.

Clyde's properties for sale or to let not only stand out in an overcrowded market, but are also highly visible to a truly global audience. We are already progressing well with more innovative features and will be rolling out enhanced functionalities over the forthcoming months.

The cold snap in December and January did nothing to dampen the spirits of our extremely busy letting department.

The freezing temperatures, coupled with the snow, ice and then a big thaw meant our staff having to deal with dozens of instances of burst pipes, central heating problems and a host of challenges brought on by weather so severe Scotland looked more like a winter wonderland than the usual greyness we're accustomed to.

Fortunately we were ready to deal with every eventuality and worked with our plumbers and heating engineers throughout the Christmas and New Year period to ensure homes were properly heated, pipes were fixed and properties checked to avoid nasty surprises. It's only when things do go wrong that both landlords and tenants realise how important a letting agent can be and, crucially, the service they offer to minimise inconvenience and disruption.

Clyde now manages over 2000 residential properties across Scotland and has over 20 years experience in letting.
Whilst many letting agencies claim to offer a full management service many in our experience many fall way short of the mark.
They cut corners; they don't deliver on service and crucially, have no structure in place to deal with unforeseen problems that arise from time to time.

Renting out a property is a long-term investment - provided it's looked after and maintained. Ensuring your tenants are content is equally as important, and with many people looking to rent over longer periods, customer service built on a strong foundation and solid footing is vital to ensure continuity.

At Clyde we have an ever-increasing database of new applicants looking for quality properties to rent both in the long and short term. We also have a number of high profile corporate clients looking for quality furnished accommodation for employees relocating.

In demand are traditional 1 & 2 bedroom flats in the West End of Glasgow, the City Centre and the Southside.

Our offices in Lanarkshire and Ayrshire have also seen a real pick-up in activity for rental property - an increase of over 34% on this time last year.

At the premier end of the market larger family homes are attracting considerable interest and we urgently require 3 & 4 bedroom properties across all areas.

If you would like a rental valuation of a property or are unhappy with your existing letting agency please click here for more info

When is the best time to sell a home?

When demand outstrips supply.

Right now there's a lack of homes for sale and plenty of buyers out there.

At Clyde we understand moving house is a huge decision and deciding when to sell your property and how to achieve the best possible is one we are frequently asked.

Our free valuation service is a great way of finding out at first hand exactly what your property is worth - and crucially how long it's likely to take to sell.

In a market that can often be confusing or to accurately predict, knowing the facts before you make a life-changing decision is vital in ensuring you make the right choice.

And where professional advice does really makes all the difference.

Clyde's experienced valuers know exactly what's happening in your area. We know the market inside out.

A free valuation is more than finding out your property's true value. You can also be advised on;

• How to present your home effectively.
• Top tips in making your property stand out.
• How to avoid paying expensive legal fees.
• How to get a better price by timing your move when demand outstrips supply.
• The different services that are available - and the costs involved.
• Local market intelligence - what's selling and for how much.
• Insight into what's coming onto the market and comparative analysis.
• Actual numbers of registered buyers looking for your type of home.

Clyde has over 20 years experience in selling property and every month carry out hundreds of property valuations across West Central Scotland.

Our free valuation service is an invaluable resource for potential sellers and an ideal way to make an informed decision as to the best way of buying or selling, to fully understand the entire process and ensure a seamless transaction from start to finish.

2010 is already showing encouraging signs of a sustained recovery.

To arrange a free valuation of your home please contact any of our offices or click here for a full details of our free valuation service

After a long period of limited availability and well priced mortgage deals, many lenders have now relaxed their lending criteria and are beginning to offer much better rates, particularly to the first time buyer market.

For existing borrowers - and those with sizeable deposits, interest rates are virtually at near-historic low levels making the cost of borrowing in relation to salaries never more affordable.

Getting the right mortgage advice is a priority, whether you're buying your first home, moving house or perhaps looking to re-mortgage. At Clyde we understand that expert advice is vital and recommend Your Moneymanager to help provide in-depth knowledge and assistance in ensuring you have access to the whole of the market.

Your Moneymanager is one of Scotland's most innovative brokers with a wealth of experience in sourcing the very best deals, whatever your circumstances.

If you are looking for free initial advice or wish to discuss your mortgage options please call 0845 519 2177. Alternatively for a free on-line quote click here

For many of us, the prospect of buying a brand new home is immensely appealing and at Clyde we are always keen to showcase select developments that offer real value for money, a build quality that typifies attention to detail and an emphasis on real craftsmanship.

This month we are delighted to introduce 3 exciting developments that we have carefully selected - and all available to view right now.

With added incentives exclusively available only through Clyde Property, and a range of options and packages to suit everyone, these properties won't be around for long.

Strathclyde Homes are one of Scotland's leading developers and have an enviable reputation of building quality homes that are both spacious and finished to a very high specification.

The Link in Clydebank is one their latest premier residential developments that has all the hallmarks of being one of their most successful yet.

Comprising a selection of luxurious 2 bedroom apartments, 3 bedroom semi-detached villas and a small selection of 4 bedroom townhouses, each property features gas central heating, double-glazing, private parking and interiors that have been carefully designed to maximise living space and the very best in creative design.

The development is located in an area that is extremely popular - close to the banks of the river Clyde; minutes walk to Clydebank Shopping Centre and less than 20 minutes by train into the City Centre.

The Link is contemporary living personified.

All local amenities are within walking distance, primary and secondary schools are closeby whilst the scenic beauty of Loch Lomond can be reached in less than half an hour.

Strathclyde Homes are creating a new community at The Link, and have just reduced their prices substantially for buyers wishing to move in before the 1st of April 2010.

These incredible savings are offered on a selection of homes exclusively marketed by Clyde Property and will be sold on a first come, first served basis. What's more, as an additional incentive, Strathclyde Homes are offering a choice of free carpets and appliances on reservations made in February.

These homes are selling fast, they're great value and with savings over £10,000, there's never been a better time to buy.

The marketing suite is open Thursday to Monday, 11.00am to 5.30pm, you call on 0141 952 0399 or to visit the website click here

The final phase of one of Adam's most successful West End developments to date at Queensborough Gardens, Hyndland has just been released for sale.

With both phases 1 and 2 at 'Queensborough' being sold out and occupied this is the last opportunity to reserve one of these sought after properties within this development.

It's also an opportunity to secure a superb deal as the properties in phase 3 won't be completed until spring 2011, which for buyers with patience, represents a unique opportunity to benefit from current competitive pricing at a fixed price whilst being able to take advantage of an entry date in 2011, when according to most expert opinion, the market will be rising once again. (a recent survey by Nationwide saw UK house prices already rise by over 1.5% in December )

It is a tempting offer, particularly as Queensborough enjoys a thoughtful take on contemporary living yet holds true to all the values that make Hyndland such a sought after area in which to live. However, with over a third of the final phase of this development already having been reserved it looks like being an offer that may not be around for long.

This luxury development represents a new benchmark in understated elegance, convenience and architectural splendor - and with prices starting around £248,000 offers incredible value in an area that is arguably one of the most highly regarded in West Central Scotland.

With every conceivable amenity on your doorstep, Byres Road a 10 minute walk, the City Centre less than 15 minutes by train, the location is perfect.

An investment that is tangible.

Each of the remaining 2 & 3 bedroom homes will be finished to the highest possible specification that includes gas central heating, double glazing, private lift, secure parking and an attention to detail that is synonymous with the Adam brand.

The interiors have been designed to maximise space, let in plenty of light and feature the latest in technological smart thinking.

All properties all have en - suites, fully integrated kitchens with AEG appliances as standard, luxurious bathrooms and fitted wardrobes in all bedrooms.

If you're in the market for a distinctive property - and willing to wait until spring next year, then this is an opportunity that can't be missed!

To arrange an appointment to view the remaining homes please call 0141 339 7780 or click here to visit the website

Accessible but Rural... the Very Best of Both Worlds in Balfron.

Donaldson Wynd really is the perfect place to lay down roots for the long term.

Situated within the quaint Conservation village of Balfron, the development is equidistant to Glasgow and Stirling and is perfectly located to offer an array of lifestyle choices.

The village has evolved over a 700 year period and so there is no shortage of history and quaintness. Add in a top tier non-fee paying high school, primary school and nursery and a real sense of community, and you can better appreciate why so many families fall in love with the semi-rural option. Golf, bowling, and many of Scotland's renowned mountains and hills are all within a short drive and the village itself has a whole raft of amenities making it the ideal place to escape from the hustle and bustle without compromising on lifestyle and convenience.

The limited edition family homes sit proudly on larger than average house plots and feature ultra-traditional external facades. Given the exceptional space standards, every home has been named after one of Scotland's Munros to properly convey the sheer scale of each one.

The specification really is exceptional too with highlights including the full range of integrated appliances, sanitaryware by Villeroy & Boch, larger than average walk in showers, Porcelanosa tiling, and oak veneered doors to ground level with matching feature oak staircase to name but a few stand-out items that come at no extra cost.

Westpoint have studied competitor product very carefully across the Central Belt and listened intently to how tomorrow's clients wish to live in their homes; Donaldson Wynd is the result; family homes of distinction specifically designed around the modern family.

In association with Clyde Property, Westpoint Homes are delighted to consider part exchanging your existing home or an assisted move.

Viewing is a must, simply call 01360 449552 to arrange an appointment, alternatively the Marketing Suite is open Thursday to Monday, 11.00am - 5.30pm.

For more info click here