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Scottish Building Society

Building Society
EdinburghEst. 1848

Scottish 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.

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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

Application Process

Processing Time
2–4 weeks
Online DIP
Yes — available online
Offer Valid For
6 months

Lending Criteria

Maximum LTV
90%
Self-Employed Welcome Contractors Welcome

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

Contact

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Important: Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage. Information on this page is for general guidance only and does not constitute financial advice. Always verify lender details directly and seek independent advice before making financial decisions.

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