tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-42463170009000554822024-02-07T05:04:58.759+00:00Clan Gordon - The Edinburgh Letting AgencyClan Gordon is a professional family firm providing property management and tenant finding services for landlords in Edinburgh, the Lothians and Borders. We specialise in finding tenants for city centre flats, houses in Stockbridge, Morningside and the New Town. We always have professional tenants looking for quality flats or homes in all areas of Edinburgh.
This blog provides company news and useful information on the residential letting business.Grandpaghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06050980119923788315noreply@blogger.comBlogger23125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4246317000900055482.post-18183902434503931892012-01-11T17:43:00.002+00:002013-10-16T22:03:23.130+01:00Clan Gordon has movedWe have been in a new office since August 2011.<br />
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Get in touch with us for more information on our website -<br />
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<a href="http://www.clangordon.co.uk/">Clan Gordon - <span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">The</span> Edinburgh Letting Agent</a><br />
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or phone Jonathan:<span style="font-weight: bold;">-</span><br />
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Office: <strong>0131 555 4444</strong><br />
<strong><span style="font-weight: normal;">Mobile: <span style="font-weight: bold;">07766 467 711</span></span></strong><br />
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Suite 1B, 1 Carmichael Place<br />
Newhaven Road<br />
Edinburgh<br />
EH6 5PH</div>
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Our website has also been updated significantly, and has a built-in blog that will normally be used in preference to this blog.Grandpaghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06050980119923788315noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4246317000900055482.post-86158145846345715642011-01-25T15:15:00.001+00:002013-12-01T23:05:24.599+00:00Tenancy Deposit Scheme 2011<div class="WordSection1">
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I only just mentioned on the blog the other day about watching out for confirmation soon on Tenancy Deposit Schemes. It has just arrived yesterday as announced on the Scottish Government website.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Regulations governing the approval of a national Tenancy Deposit Scheme were laid in the Scottish Parliament and the regulations are expected to become law in March. You can find out more details via the link to the website below:<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="http://www.scotland.gov.uk/News/Releases/2011/01/24101106">http://www.scotland.gov.uk/News/Releases/2011/01/24101106</a><o:p></o:p></div>
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If you have any questions or queries on how this will affect you please contact Clan Gordon on 0131 555 4444.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Grandpaghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06050980119923788315noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4246317000900055482.post-79030622546145539352011-01-18T12:22:00.001+00:002011-01-18T12:22:43.678+00:00New Tenancy Deposit Scheme is Coming to Scotland<div class=WordSection1><p class=MsoNormal>This is something we should not forget if we are involved in the letting business in Scotland. A Tenancy Deposit Scheme will be introduced in Scotland and probably this year. Obviously, the elections may get in the way of this but whichever party gets in is likely to go ahead with a scheme of some sort. They say it will be better than the ones in England which are causing so many problems for landlords but it sounds very similar to us. You can have a look for yourself at the consultation responses - <a href="http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Publications/2010/11/30093612/0">http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Publications/2010/11/30093612/0</a><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p></div>Grandpaghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06050980119923788315noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4246317000900055482.post-90707583687676152302010-12-24T22:42:00.001+00:002010-12-24T22:42:43.921+00:00Merry Christmas to all our readers!<div class=WordSection1><p class=MsoNormal>Andrew, Jonathan and Sophie at Clan Gordon Letting Agents wish a Merry Christmas to all our tenants, landlords, contractors and any other readers of our blog.<o:p></o:p></p></div>Grandpaghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06050980119923788315noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4246317000900055482.post-80519863243964028472010-12-14T17:27:00.000+00:002010-12-19T17:30:32.867+00:00National Landlord Day - Part 5 of 5<div class="WordSection1"><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16pt;">Local Housing Allowance Changes</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"><o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Amendments to the Housing Benefit (HB) legislation were laid on the 30 November 2010 bringing into effect measures that will: <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-left: 54pt; text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">remove the five bedroom Local Housing Allowance (LHA) rate <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-left: 54pt; text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">introduce absolute caps so that LHA weekly rates cannot exceed £250 for a one bedroom property; £290 for a two bedroom property; £340 for a three bedroom property; £400 for a four bedroom property <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-left: 54pt; text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">remove the up to £15 weekly excess <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-left: 54pt; text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">include an additional bedroom within the size criteria used to assess HB claims in the private rented sector when a disabled person, or someone with a long term health condition, has a proven need for overnight care and this is provided by a non-resident carer <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-left: 54pt; text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">set LHA rates at the 30th percentile of rents rather than the median<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">In response to the Social Security Advisory Committee (SSAC) and key stakeholders, the DWP have adjusted the timescales for implementing these measures so that:<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-left: 53.85pt; text-indent: -17.85pt;"><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">all changes will come into effect for new claims from April 2011 (this includes setting rates at the 30th percentile) <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-left: 53.85pt; text-indent: -17.85pt;"><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">a period of up to nine months transitional protection will be available for existing customers from the date the claim is reviewed (usually the anniversary date). This means many existing customers will not be affected until 2012. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">The main thing to remember is that this is primarily aimed at LHA in the South East of England and will not affect Scotland much. It will probably affect claimants in Scotland much more than it will any landlords.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Jonathan Gordon </span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">MRICS<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Director<o:p></o:p></span></div></div>Grandpaghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06050980119923788315noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4246317000900055482.post-6236672780907551602010-12-07T12:51:00.003+00:002010-12-07T17:37:08.266+00:00National Landlord Day - Part 4<div class="WordSection1"><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Tenancy Deposit Scheme in Scotland</b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal">There has been some confusion over the Tenancy Deposit Scheme being planned for Scotland, mainly relating to whether it is part of the new Housing (Scotland) Act relating to the Private Rented Sector. Actually, Part 4 of the Housing (Scotland) Act 2006 gave Ministers powers to bring forward regulations for the approval of tenancy deposit schemes in Scotland without the need for further primary legislation.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US">Unlike the national authorities in England and Wales, Scottish Ministers have no statutory responsibility to secure a tenancy deposit scheme. However, Alex Neil, Minister for Housing and Communities, announced in 2009 that a national mandatory scheme to safeguard tenancy deposits would be introduced in Scotland.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US">Tenancy deposit regulations will provide a framework for the approval and subsequent operation of tenancy deposit schemes in Scotland to tackle what is seen as </span>the problem of unfairly withheld deposits. This is despite the fact that research on this was included in the Scottish Governments own Review of the Private Rented Sector carried out over the last few years.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">It is intended to ensure that deposits are safeguarded throughout the duration of the tenancy and that deposits are returned quickly and fairly, particularly where there is a dispute over the return of the deposit, or a proportion of it. <span lang="EN-US"><o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Draft regulations were laid before parliament and regulations are expected to come into force in March 2011. Potential schemes are invited to submit proposals.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div></div>Grandpaghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06050980119923788315noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4246317000900055482.post-54573654940097857832010-11-26T14:56:00.001+00:002010-11-27T10:12:20.498+00:00National Landlord Day 9th November 2010 - Part 3<div class="WordSection1"><div class="MsoNormal">The new Private Rented Sector Housing Bill announced by the Housing Minister Alex Neil in October was discussed at the National Landlord Day and the best explanation came from T C Young Solicitors. Here is a bullet point list of what they said:<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoListParagraph" style="text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span>The “fit and proper” test of a landlord will be amplified meaning councils have greater ability to scrutinize a potential landlord’s past including<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-left: 72pt; text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span>Previous offences under landlord registration<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-left: 72pt; text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span>Whether they have any repairing standard issues enforced against them<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-left: 72pt; text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span>Anti social behaviour orders relating to any properties they own<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-left: 72pt; text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span>Complaints about them made to an official body<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-left: 72pt; text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span>A criminal record certificate will be required where there is reasonable ground to suspect information supplied is inaccurate<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraph" style="text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span>Landlord registration numbers must be supplied in all types of property advertising except to let boards<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraph" style="text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span>Improves enforcement<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-left: 72pt; text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span>Maximum fine raised to £5,000<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-left: 72pt; text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span>Disqualification orders for up to five years<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraph" style="text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span>Information available to public will be improved<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-left: 72pt; text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span>Whether application made but not determined<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-left: 72pt; text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span>If a person has been refused a registration application<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-left: 72pt; text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span>If a person has been removed from the register<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-left: 72pt; text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span>Local authority must display all this for 12 months<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraph" style="text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span>The Private Rented Housing Panel powers will be improved<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-left: 72pt; text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span>PRHP will supply information to local authorities<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-left: 72pt; text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span>PRHP will have powers to assist landlords in gaining entry to effect repairs and inspections<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraph" style="text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span>Legislation on key money, premiums and holding deposits to be clarified<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraph" style="text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span>Termination notices to be rationalised and clarified<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Overall this legislation is good for tenants and landlords given where we are. Even though landlords may not like landlord registration it is important that the councils have powers to be able to enforce it and make it worthwhile now that we have it.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">The question which almost always remains is whether the councils will have the resources available to use the legislation effectively.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Jonathan Gordon </span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">MRICS<b><o:p></o:p></b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Director<o:p></o:p></span></div></div></div>Grandpaghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06050980119923788315noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4246317000900055482.post-57871120240960405662010-11-12T10:29:00.002+00:002010-11-14T22:39:51.374+00:00Inside Letting Board Meeting 11 Nov 2010<div class=WordSection1><p class=MsoNormal><a href="http://www.edinburgh.gov.uk/" target="_blank">Edinburgh Council</a> may not be able to organise trams very efficiently, or at all now, but they have been at the forefront when it comes to local authorities in Scotland helping landlords AND tenants. The team of housing officers and other staff who manage landlord registration, HMO licensing and their advice service Letwise are fantastic: approachable, helpful and unbiased whether dealing with landlords agents or tenants.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Letwise produces a regular publication called <a href="http://www.insideletting.org.uk/default.aspx?sID=9" target="_blank">Inside Letting</a>. <a href="http://www.clangordon.co.uk/brochure/index.html" target="_blank">Clan Gordon</a> has been a member of the board which produces and edits the magazine since last year. The magazine was produced and posted out but it made sense to change this in today’s digital age to an online magazine and the results are great.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>The board meet a month or so before publication and it is planned to do one quarterly. The last one was produced in September 2010 and yesterday we had a look at the content for one coming out in December. As well as lots of handy features on topical issues this issue will cover the new Housing Bill which follows on from the recent <a href="http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Built-Environment/Housing/PrivateRenting/prsreview" target="_blank">Review of the Private Rented Sector</a>, the <a href="http://www.energysavingtrust.org.uk/scotland/Scotland-Welcome-page/Business-and-Public-Sector-in-Scotland/Private-Sector-Landlords/Private-Sector-Landlords-Boiler-Scrappage-Scheme" target="_blank">Landlord Boiler Scrappage Scheme</a> announced here this week and an update on landlord registration.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>I will make sure the new issue is launched on this blog....<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><div><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-family:"Arial","sans-serif"'>Jonathan Gordon </span></b><span style='font-family:"Arial","sans-serif"'>MRICS<b><o:p></o:p></b></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-family:"Arial","sans-serif"'>Director<o:p></o:p></span></p></div></div>Grandpaghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06050980119923788315noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4246317000900055482.post-17461617795494179592010-11-12T10:02:00.013+00:002010-11-27T10:21:00.724+00:00National Landlord Day 9th November 2010 - Part 2<div class="WordSection1"><div class="MsoNormal">Following on from the last report on <a href="http://www.scottishlandlords.com/ContentDetails.aspx?Id=127&ContentTypeId=9&CategoryId=11" target="_blank">National Landlord Day</a> organised by SAL or the <a href="http://www.scottishlandlords.com/" target="_blank">Scottish Association of Landlords</a> I thought I would summarise the market outlook report. <o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal">The presentation made on the day by Dan Cookson. The presentation he made was enlightening as reports by Citylets always are. Personally I am not sure if his style of presentation slides were a little futuristic?? You can have a look at the actual presentation <a href="http://prezi.com/rsurjb5fmy6o/citylets-analysis-of-private-rented-sector/" target="_blank">here</a>. The new specific area research is fantastic though and a great improvement to their market reports.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal">As you can see everything Dan had to say I will make this blog a little shorter than the last one...<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><a href="http://www.clangordon.co.uk/" target="_blank">Clan Gordon’s</a> take on the market outlook matches up in some ways with Citylets but we see it as perhaps even stronger. We have seen properties being rented out extremely quickly. It remains the case that if a landlord is prepared to keep their flat in good condition and market at the right rental there should be no need at all to have any voids. The Edinburgh rental market continues to be strong and there remains a dire need fro quality flats anywhere within about 15 minutes of the City Centre. There are other strong rental areas such as Crammond and Corstorphine where historically there is a big lack of supply alongside good demand from all the people working in the Gyle area. In contract to this we are finding rents falling off a bit in some areas of Granton. This appears to be down to over supply of new build flats rather than lack of demand.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Jonathan Gordon </span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">MRICS<b><o:p></o:p></b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Director<o:p></o:p></span></div><b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><o:p></o:p></span></b><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">The </span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Edinburgh Letting Agent<b><o:p></o:p></b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><i><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; position: relative; top: -6pt;">100% of our landlords would recommend us. Ask about our 2010 Client Survey.</span></i></b><b><i><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div></div><div class="MsoNormal"></div></div>Grandpaghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06050980119923788315noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4246317000900055482.post-79286409200045144612010-11-10T16:13:00.005+00:002010-11-14T23:05:37.642+00:00National Landlord Day 9th November 2010 - Part 1<div class="WordSection1"><div class="MsoNormal">The National Landlord Day run by the Scottish Association of Landlords (SAL) was held in Dynamic Earth, Edinburgh yesterday and nearly 400 landlords and letting agents from Edinburgh and around Scotland attended what was a very enjoyable day. If you have an interest in the letting market in Edinburgh or other main cities in particular then the topics covered by well chosen speakers was pretty interesting. The most interesting topics covered were:<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin-left: 18pt; text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">1.<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">Private Sector Landlords Boiler Scrappage Scheme<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 18pt; text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">2.<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">The Property Letting Market Outlook in Scotland<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 18pt; text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">3.<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">The New Housing Bill<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 18pt; text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">4.<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">The Pending Tenancy Deposit Scheme in Scotland<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-left: 18pt; text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">5.<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">Changes to the Local Housing Allowance<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal">I am planning to post my comments on what I learnt about each topic over the next couple of weeks. As it is brand new and a limited fund which will run out I thought it sensible to start with the Landlords Boiler Scrappage Scheme.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b>Harry Mayers of the Energy Saving Trust </b>gave a good summary of a brand new scheme for landlords to allow them to scrap their old and in-efficient boilers paying £400 towards the cost of a new one. The scheme is open to any landlord to apply and they are able to apply for more than one property. <o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b>Private Sector Landlords Boiler Scrappage Scheme<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal">Scotland has one of the most ambitious CO<sub>2</sub> emission reduction targets in the world. The installation of an efficient heating system is one effective way of reducing your tenant’s household energy bills and CO<sub>2</sub> emissions. There are currently an estimated 250,000 homes in Scotland that have boilers of the least efficient type (efficiency of 70% or less). To help address this, the Scottish Government has announced funding for a boiler scrappage scheme for private sector landlords in Scotland. <o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal">Scrappage schemes work by helping to meet the cost of replacing inefficient equipment with new more efficient alternatives – in this case boilers. The Energy Saving Scotland Private Sector Landlords Boiler Scrappage Scheme will offer landlords £400 towards the cost of upgrading inefficient boilers to an Energy Saving Trust Recommended boiler in each of their rented properties. <o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><a href="" name="eztoc5552289_1"></a><b>What are the benefits?<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin-left: 18pt; text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">Upgrading your boiler can result in: Higher EPC ( <a href="http://www.wedoepc.co.uk/" target="_blank" title="Energy Performance Certificates">Energy Performance Certificate</a>) ratings, which could make properties easier to let<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 18pt; text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">Lower energy bills for tenants leading to reduced rent arrears and defaults<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 18pt; text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">Reduced CO<sub>2</sub> emissions from properties <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-left: 18pt; text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">Reduced levels of fuel poverty experienced by tenants.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><a href="" name="eztoc5552289_2"></a><b>What are the eligibility criteria?<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin-left: 18pt; text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">You must be replacing a <b><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">working </span></b>boiler. The boiler being replaced must have a SAP2005 rating of 70% or worse as detailed on <a href="http://www.sedbuk.com/" target="_blank" title="Sedbuk website - opens in a new window">www.sedbuk.com</a>. If you wish to clarify if a system is eligible, please contact the Energy Saving Trust Services Delivery Team on 0131 555 8659.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 18pt; text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">You must replace this with an Energy Saving Trust Recommended boiler or a Microgeneration Certification Scheme accredited microgeneration technology. You can find a list of <a href="http://www.energysavingtrust.org.uk/Energy-Saving-Trust-Recommended-products/Heating" target="_blank">Energy Saving Trust Recommended boilers </a>on our website or should you require further assistance contact the Energy Saving Trust Services Delivery Team on 0131 555 8659. Please note, an A-rated boiler does not automatically qualify as ESTR.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 18pt; text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">You must be a registered private sector landlord and be fully responsible for the maintenance and upkeep of the boiler. (This scheme<b><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";"> does not cover</span></b> individual owners/occupiers, council tenants or social landlords).<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 18pt; text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">The property where the boiler is to be installed must be a domestic address in Scotland.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 18pt; text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">You must have received a quote for your boiler replacement before making an application.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 18pt; text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">The applicant must make an application and receive their voucher <b><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">before</span></b> having their boiler replaced. Work on the installation must not have commenced before the date on which the rebate voucher is issued. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-left: 18pt; text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">The installer must be Gas Safe registered (for gas installation) and should be a member of a recognised industry body such as CLE, SNIPEF or OFTEC. Installation of a microgeneration technology must be carried out by a person qualified under the Microgeneration Certification Scheme.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><a href="" name="eztoc5552289_3"></a><b> <a href="" name="eztoc5552289_4"></a>How to apply for the boiler scrappage scheme? <o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">Once </span></b>you have checked you are eligible you should:<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: 18pt; text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">Obtain a quote for your boiler replacement<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: 18pt; text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">Apply for a <a href="http://www.energysavingtrust.org.uk/scotland/Scotland-Welcome-page/Business-and-Public-Sector-in-Scotland/Private-Sector-Landlords/Private-Sector-Landlords-Boiler-Scrappage-Scheme/Private-Sector-Landlord-Boiler-Scrappage-Scheme" target="_blank" title="Apply online">voucher online</a> or via the phone on <b><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">0800 512 012</span></b><o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: 18pt; text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">Arrange the installation of your new boiler within 12 weeks of requesting the voucher<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: 18pt; text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">Pay for the boiler and installation work up-front<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: 18pt; text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">Claim back the £400 by sending the completed voucher and invoice back to us<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">On the application form you will be asked for all of the following</span></b>:<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: 18pt; text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">Your landlord registration number - to find this out check the following link or contact the Energy Saving Trust services delivery team on <b><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">0131 555 8659</span></b> and they will put you in touch with <a href="https://www.landlordregistrationscotland.gov.uk/Pages/Process.aspx?Command=ShowHelpLocalAuthorities" target="_blank" title="Find your local authority on the Landlord Registration Scotland website - opens in a new window">your local authority</a>.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: 18pt; text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">Your correspondence and installation property addresses<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: 18pt; text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">Some details of your rental properties’ existing heating system<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: 18pt; text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">The date you received your quote for the new boiler installation<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: 18pt; text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">The installer company name<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: 18pt; text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">Installer accreditation number (e.g. gas safe number)<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: 18pt; text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">Manufacturer and make of replacement boiler<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: 18pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">Please note, if you proceed with your installation before you receive your voucher, you will invalidate your claim and you will no longer be eligible for the £400 rebate.</span></b><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">I will post Part 2 next week – regards – Jonathan<o:p></o:p></div></div>Grandpaghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06050980119923788315noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4246317000900055482.post-10643185819998846922010-04-01T20:11:00.005+01:002010-04-01T20:17:45.925+01:00New Landlord Information Page Launched<div class="Section1"><div class="MsoNormal">Our new landlord information page at <a href="http://www.clangordon.co.uk/landlords_in_edinburgh.html">www.clangordon.co.uk/landlords_in_edinburgh.html</a> </div><div class="MsoNormal">was launched yesterday.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal">The aim is to provide a clearer message to potential new clients. It also provides testimonials from our existing landlords to back up our 3 key operating principles –<o:p></o:p></div><ul><li><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="color: #0070c0;">Personal service with professional standards</span></b></span><span style="font-size: small;"> <o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="color: #7030a0;">Finding professional tenants and looking after them</span></b></span><span style="font-size: small;"> <o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="color: #00b050;">Managing contractors closely to minimise landlord costs</span></b></span><o:p></o:p></li>
</ul><div class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p>Thanks to our website designer <a href="http://www.jaijo.com/">www.jaijo.com</a> for undertaking this at short notice and doing an excellent, very fast job.<o:p></o:p></div></div>Grandpaghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06050980119923788315noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4246317000900055482.post-24928544874867508872010-03-31T22:45:00.000+01:002010-11-10T16:04:11.956+00:00Response to the Clan Gordon Survey 2010100% of landlords said they would recommend Clan Gordon. Despite having to take a tough line with a few tenants over deposit deductions, it was great that over 95% of tenants would also recommend us.<br />
<br />
We also asked our clients to tell us why they would recommend us- here are a couple of samples:<br />
<br />
“I have been very impressed with the professional approach to letting the property I reside in. I have found all the Clan Gordon representatives approachable and personable, especially when we have had maintenance issues.” - from one of our Tenants in a West End flat<br />
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“Very helpful polite and knowledgeable. Personal service and nothing is too much trouble. Better than a larger agency where you are just a number. I came to Clan Gordon through a recommendation and would have no hesitation in recommending them.” - from the Landlord of a Corstorphine flatGrandpaghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06050980119923788315noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4246317000900055482.post-17640713472204929832010-03-31T11:38:00.001+01:002010-03-31T15:17:47.987+01:007 TeV reached at Large Hadron Collider<div class="Section1"><div class="MsoNormal">Watched the live webcast yesterday from CERN for several hours!<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p>This is only half the design energy of the LHC, but even that seems likely to produce new physics.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p>Reminded me that I used to be a physicist and stopped me working on SEO for most of the afternoon – apologies Jonathan!<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p>You can see the highlights and lots of other interesting videos at <a href="http://bit.ly/dCbxuN">http://bit.ly/dCbxuN</a>.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal">George</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_qCzgB5ObnA3GlWFX6kRx4l_62SgxhRIaZnA8xxJcQ-m1oKmkPYNFwfMpj01CHwXrb8EvauTmISIknf3tB-8JvE0FTmdpq4GkYRf2qYm4le2LeJoljYFiEKoAU6VosRnDtdiTjSwcopk/s1600/1003058_01-A5-at-72-dpi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_qCzgB5ObnA3GlWFX6kRx4l_62SgxhRIaZnA8xxJcQ-m1oKmkPYNFwfMpj01CHwXrb8EvauTmISIknf3tB-8JvE0FTmdpq4GkYRf2qYm4le2LeJoljYFiEKoAU6VosRnDtdiTjSwcopk/s320/1003058_01-A5-at-72-dpi.jpg" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"></div><div class="MsoNormal"></div><div class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></div></div>Grandpaghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06050980119923788315noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4246317000900055482.post-44624848843497404582010-03-24T17:19:00.001+00:002010-03-25T09:47:44.242+00:00Our blog is now on Technorati!<span class="status">Short code is BC7YWFMZRWRF </span>Grandpaghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06050980119923788315noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4246317000900055482.post-31844287827983346602010-02-24T12:56:00.003+00:002010-11-10T15:41:58.291+00:00Clan Gordon is now on Twitter!<div class="Section1"><div class="MsoNormal">Follow us at <a href="http://twitter.com/clangordon42">http://twitter.com/clangordon42</a> <o:p></o:p></div></div>Grandpaghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06050980119923788315noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4246317000900055482.post-61169910131656477062010-02-21T16:45:00.000+00:002010-11-10T21:08:47.021+00:00Clan Gordon Survey 2010Clan Gordon's first and key responsibility is it's clients - both tenant and landlord. This is why we have decided to complete an annual survey. We will do one at the start of each year to gauge how our clients feel about us. We are just waiting for a few more to complete their surveys and then we will take stock of the results before tweaking the way we work if any improvements are suggested or required. All landlords and tenants should have received a link to the survey but if not then please email us at enquiries@clangordon.co.uk and we will send it to you. <div><br />
</div><div>Anyone entering the survey is eligible for the prize draw to win a £50 M & S gift voucher.</div><div><br />
</div><div>Jonathan</div>The Loonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09754557274267528504noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4246317000900055482.post-84362122302822532542010-02-15T14:55:00.001+00:002010-02-15T14:55:59.550+00:00BT Tradespace<div class=Section1> <p class=MsoNormal>Clan Gordon has joined BT Tradespace - <a href="http://clangordon.bttradespace.com/">http://clangordon.bttradespace.com/</a><o:p></o:p></p> <p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class=MsoNormal>Hoping to find it useful once we find our way round it!<o:p></o:p></p> </div> Grandpaghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06050980119923788315noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4246317000900055482.post-69044340461736980622010-02-10T23:43:00.001+00:002010-02-10T23:43:19.409+00:00Happy Birthday Jonathan<div class=Section1> <p class=MsoNormal>Best wishes from the Company Secretary!<o:p></o:p></p> </div> Grandpaghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06050980119923788315noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4246317000900055482.post-40683547031069339172010-01-27T10:23:00.001+00:002010-01-27T10:23:32.638+00:00Clan Gordon does EPC's!<div class=Section1> <p class=MsoNormal>We are qualified to do Energy Performance Certificates – see our sister website at <a href="http://www.WeDoEPC.co.uk">www.WeDoEPC.co.uk</a>.<o:p></o:p></p> <p class=style17><span style='font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"'>As a firm of chartered surveyors we are</span> <a href="http://www.rics.org/newregulation" target="_blank">Regulated by RICS</a> <span style='font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"'>which provides protection and professional indemnity insurance for all our clients.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class=style17><span style='font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"'>We can collect and return keys, post or email your certificates and even affix them in the property to meet regulations.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p> </div> Grandpaghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06050980119923788315noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4246317000900055482.post-68864711236582144512010-01-25T12:24:00.000+00:002010-01-25T12:24:12.885+00:00The Cloud Business CaseWe have been trialling Cloud applications for CRM (<a href="http://www.javelincrm.com/">www.javelincrm.com/</a>) and Accounting (<a href="http://www.xerousers.com/">www.xerousers.com/</a>) and are very impressed. Xero is inexpensive and very easy to understand, even for accounting newbies, and is particularly good for invoicing. There are several competetive accounting applications out in the cloud, but Xero gets our vote. If you think you could benefit from using CRM or Accounting software, you should trial at least 2 of those on offer before signing up - many of them have free trials which are fully functioning.Grandpaghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06050980119923788315noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4246317000900055482.post-61295575195188803282008-08-18T11:15:00.000+01:002008-08-23T09:55:24.725+01:00Clan Gordon website is up and running!The website has now been up for about 2 weeks, and all features are working well.<br /><br />Clan Gordon is a property management business in Edinburgh run by brothers - Andrew and Jonathan Gordon.<br /><br />We provide <span class="highlight">bespoke management solutions</span> for landlords and a dedicated account manager for all our clients – landlord and tenant alike. The most important thing to us and our clients is our hands on, <span class="highlight">personal</span> approach.<br /><br />As a <span class="highlight">professional</span> firm of chartered surveyors in Edinburgh, property management and residential letting for landlords and investors is our core business. Whether buying a new flat or house in Edinburgh as an investment or letting out your family home, we can advise you on any of your property requirements.<br /><br />Clan Gordon has the benefit of being a <span class="highlight">small family firm</span> of residential letting agents in Edinburgh. It is one of the few property management agents to be regulated by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS).<br /><br />Visit us at <a href="http://www.clangordon.co.uk/">Clan Gordon</a>Grandpaghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06050980119923788315noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4246317000900055482.post-78881673502971132602008-07-30T15:39:00.000+01:002008-08-19T13:55:30.845+01:00New CompanyAfter a successful year as Jonathan Gordon Leasing, the company has expanded.<br /><br />Jonathan is joined by his brother Andrew, an Investment Professional, and the new company has been re-branded as Clan Gordon Limited.<br /><br />Clan Gordon Limited is registered in Scotland SC:344424.<br />The registered address is 8 Craiglockhart View, Edinburgh EH14 1BX.<br /><br />A new website is being set up, linked to an online property management database, and new services have been made available for landlords, tenants and investors.Grandpaghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06050980119923788315noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4246317000900055482.post-14025301411054316252008-07-15T23:04:00.000+01:002008-07-30T16:42:44.991+01:00Clan Gordon goes live!Welcome to the news channel of Clan Gordon Chartered Surveyors and Letting Agents in Edinburgh.Grandpaghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06050980119923788315noreply@blogger.com