Shock figures a sign of the times

JUST a few short years ago rental prices in Dundee were a fraction of those in Aberdeen.

How times have changed. New research has shown the average cost of renting a home in each city is almost level (see page 8). It is a remarkable turnaround.

The most stark rise in Dundee has come in the shape of a 15.8% increase in the average cost of a two-bedroom property. Experts admit they have been left stunned by the statistics, with the managing director at Citylets Thomas Ashdown describing Aberdeen as being “in the doldrums”.

Of course that only tells part of the story, with local prices rising sharply.

It would be nice to think that is a sign of a vibrant city on the up, and increased affluence.

The alternative, and sadly perhaps more realistic, view is that as we continue to experience a devastating cost of living crisis, more people than ever are set to be priced out of the housing market.