The wish to have a modern, high specification property designed to meet the needs of downsizer buyers often makes new build homes an attractive option. Finally, aspiration to be mortgage free, fund a comfortable lifestyle and assist family members get onto the property ladder will motivate many to make the move to a smaller home and allow equity to be released from the sale of the family home. The key will be the ability to provide homes in aspirational developments and desirable locations, acting as the catalyst for the downsizer to make this lifestyle move.

There are two key markets operating which are likely to be most influential due to the value challenge in Scotland.

The core market is likely to cover those downsizing from properties worth between £175,000 and £325,000. They are looking primarily for location and high quality, but also modest design specification to allow them equity release and investment in other aspects of their lives.

The prime market covers those downsizing from properties worth £350,000 and above and is therefore likely to be relatively small. Here, purchasers require prime locations, high quality design specification and potentially the provision of additional services such as concierges and considerable amenity space in gardens, roof terraces and guest suites.