Edinburgh offers those looking to get on the property ladder a chastening start to their home owning lives - if it ever gets started at all.
Recent analysis by home.co.uk found all types of properties in the Capital took less than 100 days to from listing to the keys being handed over to a new owner, with some reaching sale point in as little as 54 days.
READ MORE: Beloved Edinburgh city centre Mexican restaurant returns to market after failing to sell
It means there is usually little time to stop and smell the roses when buying or selling in the city, but occasionally, even Edinburgh throws up property anomalies when, for whatever reason, some homes just can’t sell.
So where are these unloved houses, and could you give one of these homes…eh, a forever home? Sorry that’s quite a confusing metaphor.
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Anyway, thanks to property site Zoopla, we’ve compiled a list of five Capital houses that have been on the market for the longest time.
Western Harbour View, Newhaven
Price: Offers over £264,000
Located in the pristine Western Harbour View development, this three-bed flat’s biggest selling point is its stunning views out over the Firth of Forth. Large windows offer a sweeping vista of the water every morning - the perfect way to kick off the day.
Inside, the property is in walk-in condition, with an en-suite master bedroom alongside two other good-sized doubles. A large lounge/kitchen comes with a dual-aspect, with waterside views on one side and the private courtyard on the other.
Access is granted through a secure entry system at the door and a the building comes with a lift to carry you safely up to the first floor.
First listed: January 2020
Gorgie Road, Gorgie
Price: Fixed £185,000
Renovated shortly before being listed on the market almost three years ago, this two-bedroom, ground floor flat in busy Gorgie offers plenty of space for its price tag.
High ceilings and a number of windows throughout allow plenty of light to flow through the spacious interior while the kitchen comes complete with fitted units, wood-effect worktops, tiled backsplash, stainless steel sink and integrated appliances.
The modern bathroom is fitted with a stylish three-piece suite with a shower unit over the bath, tiled splash walls and both bedrooms have ample room for furnishings.
Located close to several amenities including a host of supermarkets, bars and restaurants, it also finds itself in an ideal spot for all modern conveniences - though perhaps not for those of a green and white persuasion.
First listed: Dec 2019
Downie Grove, Corstorphine
Price: Fixed £549,995
For those looking for something a little more unique - and with a close connection to nature in mind - this eye-catching home just round the corner from Edinburgh Zoo should peak the interest of prospective buyers.
The amazing four-bedroom home enjoys a striking entrance hallway with vaulted ceiling and full-length window allowing ample natural light, dining lounge with double doors to garden and three double bedrooms with en-suites alongside a family bathroom.
Perhaps it is not one for those who value their privacy however. While the garden is spacious, the view is dominated by the massive Silvan House to the rear - the home of SEPA and Forestry and Land Scotland among others.
First listed: May 2019
Saughton Road North, Saughton
Price: Offers over £248,000
Another spacious family offering, this flat in Saughton backs onto Union Park and is sandwiched between St Margaret’s Park and Carrick Knowe golf course.
Much like the previous entry on the other side of the city, the four-bedroom home needs modernising inside and would benefit from a lick of paint throughout.
But those willing to get their hands dirty may be able to pick up something of a bargain. Three of the bedrooms are double-sized, with the fourth, master version boasting its own en-suite.
It also comes with two reception rooms, reasonably-sized kitchen and, remarkably, its own private rear garden.
First listed: April 2019
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Nantwich Drive, Craigentinny
Price: Offers over £399,995
This four-bedroom bungalow in Duddingston looks like the ideal family home. With a large lounge, sizeable kitchen and huge outdoor space to the front and rear, the property is in good condition, though perhaps could do with a bit of interior TLC.
A drive to the front offers off-street parking for up to three vehicles, while a converted attic area above the spacious ground floor is a blank canvas for further expansion if necessary.
Listed for less than £400,000 - relatively reasonable given its proximity to a number of primary and secondary schools and ample green space - the property has been on the market for almost five years without finding a buyer.
First listed: September 2017
