A guide to living in Scotland

Please tell us about the good and bad aspects of living in your local area:

15 to 20 minute walk from city center is moderate distance. In case of heavy rain, I can still use Bus which bus stops is just 1 minutes walk. Supermarket on ground level is super convenient. Local area is very quiet but I felt a little bit scared in the beginning. (not so many house or restaurant).

How has the building management responded to any problems or issues you have raised:

No big issue. Management respond very swift, normally within a day.

Please share one thing (or more) which you wish you had known before you moved in:

Car parking slot is limited. Bed room is a little bit bright due to the light between apartment block.

Please tell us about the good and bad aspects of living in your local area:

The immediate area is fairly limited, with not much right on the doorstep beyond a Sainsbury’s Local which is convenient for basics but not the cheapest. You do need to walk into the city for most shops, restaurants and general amenities. It’s not a long walk, but something to consider if mobility is an issue at times. Transport links are good and getting around is straightforward. Overall it’s practical, but not a location with a strong neighbourhood feel or lots happening immediately outside.

How has the building management responded to any problems or issues you have raised:

Issues have generally been handled professionally, although a couple have taken a bit of time to resolve. That said, communication throughout has been excellent, with clear updates and a responsive team, which makes a big difference and gives confidence that things will be sorted properly.

Please share one thing (or more) which you wish you had known before you moved in:

That the overall cost of living is higher than it might first appear. Rent is not the cheapest, although the quality of the building and facilities helps justify it. However, utilities can add up quickly, especially with electric heating and metered hot water. It can take a noticeable amount of water running before it gets hot, which at times feels like money literally going down the drain. Parking is an additional cost, and council tax bands for anything other than a one bed are also relatively high. Overall, while the development offers good quality and facilities, you do need to be prepared for the full monthly cost of living here.

Please tell us about the good and bad aspects of living in your local area:

Excellent location. Everything is so close. If you’re not walking, transport is still easy as there are many bus stops and train stations within walking distance.

How has the building management responded to any problems or issues you have raised:

They are quick to answer and quick to schedule any needed maintenance.

Please share one thing (or more) which you wish you had known before you moved in:

Nothing noteworthy. Everything was clear and straightforward.

Please tell us about the good and bad aspects of living in your local area:

The living area is beautiful, very quiet and peaceful. The public transport (bus &tram) is so convenient as it is only 4 minutes away from the building and always on time. Ocean Terminal includes a great cinema for a night out as well as cafes, restaurants and retail shops. Tesco and Aldi are only a few minutes away so daily groceries can be done very easily by having a short walk in the neighbourhood. Leith centre (Shore) is only 7 minutes away, having many options for food and drinks.

How has the building management responded to any problems or issues you have raised:

I haven’t had any issues yet, but they were very fast at answering questions about the delivery schedule for a couple of big furniture items.

Please share one thing (or more) which you wish you had known before you moved in:

Nothing, all has been good so far so nothing comes to mind.

Please tell us about the good and bad aspects of living in your local area:

The location of the building in the heart of the Merchant City is ideal. There are plenty of shops, bars, and restaurants nearby. Also, Candleriggs has established good relationships with local businesses to offer discounts to residents - a great perk! There are lots of buses and trains close by to get all over the city easily.

How has the building management responded to any problems or issues you have raised:

Any problems have been addressed quickly and any repairs promptly fixed by Jason. No complaints.

Please share one thing (or more) which you wish you had known before you moved in:

Nothing I can think of at this time. The Candleriggs team are all very welcoming and available to help if residents have any queries.