Scottish Building Society
Building SocietyScottish Building Society is Scotland's only independent building society, offering residential, buy-to-let, and self-build mortgages with a focus on serving the Scottish property market and its unique legal requirements.
About Scottish Building Society
Scottish Building Society was established in 1848, making it one of the oldest building societies in the UK. Headquartered in Edinburgh, it is Scotland's only remaining independent building society, giving it a unique position in the Scottish mortgage market.
The society offers a comprehensive range of products for the Scottish market including residential, buy-to-let, and self-build mortgages. Scottish Building Society has particular expertise in Scottish property law and conveyancing processes, which differ from England and Wales. The society understands Scots law requirements including the Home Report system, missives, and the Scottish land registration process. It also offers shared equity products and has supported government-backed schemes in Scotland.
Scottish Building Society lends primarily on properties in Scotland and works with mortgage brokers across the country. The society has invested in technology and intermediary relationships to extend its reach while maintaining its personal service ethos. It is regulated by the FCA and PRA and is a member of the Building Societies Association.
Lending Focus
Scottish Building Society offers mortgage products across 4 categories including Residential, Buy-to-Let, Self Build and 1 more.
Key Features
- Scotland's only independent building society with Scottish law expertise
- Self-build mortgages with stage payment options
- Shared equity products for Scottish buyers
- Buy-to-let mortgages for Scottish landlords
- Individual underwriting with understanding of Scottish property market
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Unrivalled expertise in Scottish property law and conveyancing
- Self-build and shared equity products tailored for Scottish buyers
- Individual underwriting with flexible income assessment
- Only independent building society headquartered in Scotland
Cons
- –Lending primarily focused on Scottish properties — limited coverage elsewhere
- –Smaller product range than the UK's largest building societies
- –Branch network limited to central Scotland
Fees & Charges
- Arrangement Fee
- Varies by product; typically £299–£799
- Valuation Fee
- Home Report accepted for Scottish properties; valuation fee varies
- Early Repayment Charge
- 1–3% during the initial deal period
- Overpayment Allowance
- Up to 10% per year without charge on most products
Mortgage Rates
Rate data coming soon. View rates on Scottish Building Society
| Product | Initial Rate | Type | Initial Term | Revert Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2 Year Fixed | TBC | Fixed | 24 months | TBC |
| 5 Year Fixed | TBC | Fixed | 60 months | TBC |
| Tracker | TBC | Variable | 24 months | TBC |
Application Process
- Processing Time
- 2–4 weeks
- Online DIP
- Yes — available online
- Offer Valid For
- 6 months
Lending Criteria
- Maximum LTV
- 90%
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Scottish Building Society only lend in Scotland?
Scottish Building Society primarily lends on properties in Scotland, where it has particular expertise in Scottish property law. Contact the society for any enquiries about lending outside Scotland.
Does Scottish Building Society offer self-build mortgages?
Yes, Scottish Building Society offers self-build mortgages with stage payments released during the construction process, designed for the Scottish self-build market.
Can I apply through a mortgage broker?
Yes, Scottish Building Society works with mortgage brokers across Scotland, making its products accessible to borrowers who prefer to use an intermediary.
Does Scottish Building Society understand Scottish property law?
Yes, as Scotland's only independent building society, it has deep expertise in Scottish conveyancing, including the Home Report system, missives process, and Scottish land registration.
How to Apply
Direct & broker access. Apply directly or via a broker for whole-of-market access. Find a broker
Similar Lenders
View all lenders| Name | Niches | Type | Max LTV |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cambridge Building Society | Residential, Buy-to-Let, Self Build+1 | Building Soc. | 95% |
| Leeds Building Society | Residential, Buy-to-Let, Self Build+1 | Building Soc. | 95% |
| Newbury Building Society | Residential, Buy-to-Let, Shared Ownership | Building Soc. | 95% |
| Suffolk Building Society | Residential, Buy-to-Let, Self Build+3 | Building Soc. | 90% |
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