Chinese interest in the investment potential of high-end Scottish residential property may help prop up a slower market, according to letting and estate agents DJ Alexander.

On return from a trip to Hong Kong last week, managing director David Alexander said that with the domestic market less buoyant than previously, refocussing on the potential Far East market made sense and his mission had attracted sales as well as buyer interest. "The links between Great Britain, but particularly Scotland, and Hong Kong are still strong and Edinburgh and Glasgow properties, suitably located, are considered to be safe investments offering good rental yield while the current level of capital growth is considered acceptable at a time of record low interest rates," Mr Alexander said. "Unlike Scottish/British expatriates, whose investment preferences are traditional properties in locations like Edinburgh's New Town and Glasgow's Park Circus, the Chinese investor is much more drawn to high-end new-build which meant that the Quartermile luxury flats on the site of the former Edinburgh Royal Infirmary attracted particular interest."