Laurieston Living Archives - Page 8 of 16 - Urban Union Ltd

 

The Scottish Home Awards 2020

We are thrilled to have been named finalists in no less than three categories for this year’s Scottish Home Awards! 

Founded in 2007 the event is run for the benefit of the housebuilding community, with the objective of helping housebuilders and housing associations sell, rent or promote their properties more effectively.

Following entries from 109 housebuilders, housing associations and support businesses from across Scotland we are delighted to have reached the final in the following categories: 

  • Community Contribution award.
  • Affordable Housing Development of the Year (Private Sale) for Laurieston Living.
  • Housing Regeneration Project of the Year for Laurieston Living.

Due to the current limitation on gatherings, the 2020 Scottish Home Awards will be hosted as a virtual event on Thursday 29 October and will include dedicated networking zones, live hosts, entertainment, and video messages which can be watched from the comfort of your own home.

The national awards celebration for housing in Scotland will be hosted as a virtual event this year as plans are now being finalised for a broadcast quality, live digital experience which celebrates the best in new build housing.

Celebrating the best in new build housing, The Scottish Home Awards reported a record-high volume of entries in this year’s competition and working with sponsors, Ross & Liddell, finalists had been announced in 19 categories earlier this year.

Kirsten Speirs, Director of KDMedia, which operates the programme, commented;

“We’re excited to be adding digital events to our Scottish Home Awards programme.  Working with our suppliers and advisers, we have trialled many products over recent weeks and we are feeling very inspired that we can deliver something special for our guests who regularly attend the dinner.

“Digital events are different and will offer an entirely new experience for finalists, winners and sponsors.  The results gained from networking can be much more effective and we can enhance the profile of our sponsors in a new way which can also deliver real results for businesses.   We’re very much looking forward to getting started and continuing this new dimension to the awards in the years ahead.”

Discover more. 

Supporting our young workforce At Urban Union we understand the importance of not only providing affordable housing, but the career opportunities that are created in building homes and communities. As one example, we run apprenticeship programmes whereby we periodically read more

 

Scotland should focus on building communities, not just homes

At Urban Union we specialise in not only delivering outstanding new homes, but regenerating communities. With four developments ongoing in Scotland – Laurieston Living and Pollokshaws Living in Glasgow, Pennywell Living in Edinburgh and Muirton Living in Perth, our ambitious projects aim to deliver homes where they are most needed. Established in 2011 with the aim of working in Glasgow, similar regeneration opportunities followed, and we now deliver housing in key regeneration areas across Scotland.

Community engagement is at the heart of our developments. We aim to build a long term relationship with the  community to ensure the homes we provide are to the wider benefit of the people living where we work. As well as focusing on well-connected sites, building communities enhances our offering by promoting healthy lifestyles and community interaction through attractive streets, public spaces and gardens.

An ongoing commitment to creating high quality, crafted architecture embedded and connected to the wider community is also fundamental to our approach. Too often you will find inconsistent architectural styles, especially in areas where multiple developers have built individual housing more reflective of their brand than existing buildings. This can be prohibitive to a sense of place.

At Urban Union we provide a mix of terraces, townhouses, and apartments in a coherent style, with a variety of house types suitable to first-time buyers and families alike. In addition to one and two-bedroom apartments, our developments include two, three, four and five-bedroom terraced homes and townhouses for growing families looking to put down roots. Our desire is for everyone to be able to enjoy a modern and stylish home at an affordable price.

We have a strong track record in delivering critical regeneration projects to support the demand for high quality, affordable homes and provide an opportunity for people to join the property ladder in key locations. New sustainable mixed tenure communities are facilitated through the provision of new housing, community facilities, green space and, where appropriate, commercial units. Our developments combine superior architecture, urban design and spacious, flexible accommodation.

To date, we have successfully delivered more than a 1,000 homes across our developments and are putting that award-winning experience to good use as we support ongoing regeneration.

Embedded in our developments is the ongoing involvement of the local community. For example supporting the Citizen’s Theatre, local school children helping to plant trees at the Pennywell Nature Garden, celebrating local heroes with our Living Legends arts project at Laurieston, running apprenticeship programmes, fostering links to local schools and colleges, to name but a few.

At our Laurieston Living development in Glasgow, we have partnered with local arts organisation WAVEparticle to create a five-year arts strategy for the area with the ambition of connecting it to the rich history of Laurieston, its people and the aspirations of the community. This idea was sparked from engagement with the local community which forms the cornerstone of our approach to development. As our projects have matured and new phases come to fruition, we have gone back to the community time and again to ensure they are fully on board with plans and help shape the regeneration.

Investing more in this coherent and sustainable approach to regeneration with local communities at the core, will not only help address Scotland’s housing shortfall and support its post-pandemic economic recovery but will have a profoundly positive impact on the mental health and wellbeing of its citizens at a time when the quality of our living spaces and the value of our communities has never been in sharper focus.

 

Understanding the importance of social housing

Scottish Housing Day is now in its fifth year and Urban Union are thrilled to celebrate housing in Scotland, particularly with this year’s focus on the value of social housing.

Access to secure, safe, warm and affordable housing is vital to the wellbeing of everyone in our society. With the current Covid19 pandemic, we have been made acutely aware of the importance of social housing.

Although unlike previous years, we are unable to get together face to face for Scottish Housing Day, we will be coming together virtually.

Not only is there an impressive online line-up of speakers including the Minister for Local Government, Housing and Planning, Kevin Stewart MSP, taking place today, here at Urban Union we will be sharing via social media our views on the importance of social housing. Posts include how we are delivering outstanding new housing, building communities and supporting everyone’s right to a safe, secure and affordable place to call home.

Understanding the value of social housing

Creating a cohesive look which does not distinguish between social and private housing – while ensuring plans include a considered use of green space – allows for areas of differing character to develop which respond to their immediate vicinity and benefit the local landscape.

Housing associations are committed to improving the lives of their residents and communities. Their activities, from building homes to providing community services, are driven by this social purpose.

Well designed and well managed green spaces are essential for the enjoyment of residents. They can be used for play, recreation, socialising and relaxing. They can also provide environments which enhance biodiversity and support climate change adaptation. Positive uses of green, open space can unite people, build communities and contribute to a healthy society.

Accessible and safe green spaces may be important to people’s sense of well being and mental health and be a positive influence on levels of physical activity. What’s more, residents perceptions of safety can be influenced by various factors, one of which is suggested to be the presence of a green neighbourhood, with high trees and grass preserving visibility across spaces. Other research has shown that people who took responsibility for the green spaces close to their home and maintained it, perceived the neighbourhood as safer than those who did not. (F. E. and Sullivan, W. C. (2001) Environmental crime in the inner city: does vegetation reduce crime?).

As we try to imagine what our post-Covid19 future could look like, research has shown there is public support for a ‘green recovery’.  A report by Climate Assembly UK found that people would be prepared to continue many of the lifestyle changes enforced by the lockdown to help tackle the climate emergency and felt governments should take the opportunity to rethink investment in infrastructure.

Working from home is now highly popular and as a result, there has been a change in how – and how often – people travel. This has led the government to rethink investment in infrastructure and support low-carbon industries.

The findings set out below come from Climate Assembly UK, a group of 108 members of the public.

Nearly 80% of the members believed that the measures taken by the government to help the economic recovery from Covid-19 need to be redesigned to help reach net zero with 90% believing government and employers should encourage lifestyle changes to cut emissions.

Affordable housing plays an important part in this. Our high-quality homes are designed to be environmentally, economically and socially sustainable, with good links to public transport and pathways suitable for pedestrians and cyclists. This enables us to deliver what people are increasingly looking for in a home while helping the UK reach net zero.

  Chris and Daniel – Our 1000th Home Mover! We have officially handed over our 1,000th home – just six years after completing our first! This is a huge milestone for us. As part of the Robertson Group, we have four developments across Scotland, including two read more

 

First Time Buyer?

Buying your first home can be a daunting and stressful experience. With the UK officially in a recession for the first time in 11 years it’s even more worrying.

If you’re looking for your first home during the recession there are some things you need to weigh up before making your decision.

Old or new?

You need to decide not only where you’re going to buy your first home, but whether to purchase an existing property or whether to buy a newly built home. There are many advantages of buying new over old (link) with the main benefit being that you can take advantage of the Help to Buy (Scotland) scheme enabling you to purchase your first home with just a 5% deposit. In addition, the price you pay will be within your budget as you won’t be in an offers over situation whereby several buyers are bidding for the same property, potentially pushing up the price.

Deposit

The more money you can save, the better. Establish how much money you can put towards your new home because the larger your deposit, the better the mortgage deal you will secure and the lower your payments will be each month. As a rule of thumb, try and save 10% of the cost of a property to obtain a mortgage with 25% being the optimum if you aren’t using Help to Buy.

Affordability

If you are going to buy a property in the next six months, try and pay off any outstanding debt including credit cards, loans and store cards. Also ensure all payments are up to date. As part of the affordability checks, any monthly dept payments will be taken into account and could affect the amount you can borrow.

Get advice

Talk to an independent mortgage broker or property development company to find out about your options. They will use their expertise to find the best mortgage for your circumstances and can make sure you get the best possible rate. They will also explain the process and give you a better understanding of what to expect during the home buying process.

Decide what is essential

When looking for a new property make sure you are realistic about whether it’s right for you rather than being swept up by the emotion of buying a home. Check the build quality, incentives offered, compare the price to similar properties, talk to people who have already bought a similar home within the development and make sure you have everything you need close by including transport links, green spaces and amenities. Also try and choose a property with lower running costs to keep your outgoings down.

Take your time

Don’t rush into anything and make sure you carefully consider all the factors involved. Talk to us at Urban Union if you would like further advice on buying your first home.

We often say that our properties at Urban Union give people an opportunity to create a home that is both stylish and highly liveable. Our properties appeal to a wide range of buyers – from those starting out on their property journey, families wanting to be a part of a community and professionals working close to the city centre, to people looking to downsize in later life. Here are just some of our happy buyers who did just that:

“Genuinely Delighted”

“From our initial plot selection to receiving the keys we have been supported throughout our first home purchase.

“Lynn, the sales representative, confidently and expertly guided us through the development plans. Assisted with the selections of kitchens and bathrooms and advised what options and upgrades were available. All in a knowledgeable way that reassured us of our choices.

“During COVID-19, Kirsty and the team continued to keep us updated, informed and reassured that our home was being completed in a guideline compliant way.

“We have genuinely been delighted with the service at Urban Union and would recommended them as a home builder of choice.”

“A blank canvas”

“Urban Union has given us a blank canvas to create a home, with Laurieston Living being in the perfect location for City Centre living.”

“As we are In our 80s I was reluctant to make the move but I am glad we did as we have a lovely house a porch and a small garden and it has improved the quality of life of my wife and I, we are also delighted with the service and help we have received from Urban Union.” M. Laurieston

“Couldn’t be happier!”

“I have been in my new Urban Union home now for 2 years and couldn’t be happier. My flat is lovely, bright, spacious and all fixtures and fittings were built to a high standard. Everything still looks new and works perfectly. I am on top floor and don’t hear a sound from neighbours. I love my ensuite bathroom with shower. The flat was affordable and fantastic value for money. Would recommend Urban Union to anyone looking for a modern, cost efficient home (my utility bills a low).” J. Rowan

“I love my new home”

“I love my new home. It’s really well designed with a great layout and really nice finishes. Lyn was a great help throughout the buying process, keeping me informed at all stages and always ready to answer any questions. I’ve never bought a new build home before so this was really helpful. The team were also great in following up after I moved in to check everything was okay.”

“Nothing but praise”

“I have nothing but praise for Urban Union when it comes to building wonderful and affordable homes. Had been lucky and fast enough to reserve the last flat available in Phase 2 of the Pennywell living development the entire process has been smooth and since moving to my home 1.5 year ago I had no problems. Wonderful neighbours and a few minutes walking to Cramond Promenade.

“As a marathon runner the area is fantastic for long runs and long walks. In fact I’ve been so happy with my flat that I decided to reserve a bigger one within Phase 3 and am looking forward to moving in when it’s complete. Recently I’ve convinced two of my friends to buy flats within Phase 3 which only tells how much I trust Urban Union with the fantastic work they are carrying out to regenerate the area.

“My flat is lovely, bright and spacious”

“I have been in my new Urban Union home now for 2 years and couldn’t be happier. My flat is lovely, bright, spacious and all fixtures and fittings were built to a high standard. Everything still looks new and works perfectly. I am on top floor and don’t hear a sound from neighbours. I love my ensuite bathroom with shower. The flat was affordable and fantastic value for money. Would recommend Urban Union to anyone looking for a modern, cost efficient home (my utility bills are low).”

Take a look at our latest properties for sale.

 

Stamp Duty (LBTT) Threshold Raised

The threshold at which Land and Buildings Transaction Tax (LBTT) is paid was increased from £145,000 to £250,000 on Wednesday 15th July as the Government stepped up efforts to support homebuyers and help the economy recover from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The announcement was made by finance secretary Kate Forbes. It means that 80% of buyers in Scotland will be exempt from the charge, excluding the Additional Dwelling Supplement.

The announcement followed Chancellor Rishi Sunak’s Summer Statement in which he announced that in England and Northern Ireland, Stamp Duty would not be payable for properties with a purchase price of £500,000 or less.

For those moving into a home costing more than £250,000, they will save £2,1000.

Finance Secretary Kate Forbes said: “I am delighted that we are able to implement this measure quickly and remove uncertainty from the market.

“The UK Government had weeks to prepare for its decision this week to raise the threshold at which Stamp Duty Land Tax is paid on house purchases in England and Northern Ireland, yet we were given no advance notice.

“We responded yesterday to clarify our policy intentions and by introducing the change so rapidly, we are providing certainty to people in the process of purchasing a home. Overall, increasing the LBTT threshold will help increase housing market activity, boost the construction sector and stimulate our economy.

“Alongside this distinctive Scottish approach to raising the starting threshold for LBTT, I am also targeting further support in other areas. For example, we are injecting £50m into our First Home Fund, which provides first time buyers with up to £25,000 to buy a property. This will help an estimated 2,000 first time purchases.

“To mitigate the immediate adverse impact on the housing market in Scotland as a result of the Chancellor’s announcement, we are now working at pace on the necessary legislation and to ensure Revenue Scotland is ready to collect and manage the tax.”

If you would like to take advantage of this threshold rise, talk to us at Urban Union. We have several properties for sale at present that are available to reserve – take a look at our current property availability in Perth, Glasgow and Edinburgh. 

 

First Home Fund

Finance secretary Kate Forbes has announced that an extra £50 million will be added to the First Home Fund, a shared equity scheme providing first time buyers with up to £25,000 to purchase a property. The Government says that this move will support an estimated 2,000 first time buyers and increase the total funding to £200 million.

The Government will also be investing £100 million in targeted employment support and training – with further details to be announced.

The First Home Fund is a Government initiative to help first-time home buyers purchase a property. Up to £25,000 is available to all first-time buyers towards the purchase of both new build and existing properties.

In order to qualify for the scheme, you will be required to provide a minimum deposit of 5% of the purchase price (subject to individual lender requirements) and your mortgage must be at least 25% of the purchase price. Although the Government will have an equity share in the property, you will own the property outright. There are no monthly payments to be made towards the Scottish Government and no interest will be charged.

You will normally repay the Scottish Government’s percentage equity share when you sell your home.

The scheme is open to first-time buyers who are taking out a mortgage. You cannot apply if you are a cash buyer or if you have previously owned a property in the UK or abroad at any time (as either a sole or a joint owner).

The maximum contribution from the Government is £25,000 or 49% of the property valuation figure or the purchase price (whichever is lower). If you purchase a property for less than the valuation figure, the maximum Scottish Government contribution is £25,000 or 49% of the purchase price.

Read more.