ONE of the most expensive flats ever sold in Scotland has been snapped up for its asking price of £1.3 million before it is even finished.

 

The bespoke dwelling was built to order for an anonymous buyer in an art deco block of flats in one of Glasgow's most sought-after suburbs.

The flat, in the Broom area of Newton Mearns, is believed to be unique, while the building retains many features from its heyday in the 1930s.

Part of an exclusive development in Sandringham Court development, it has been carved out of two existing penthouses and boasts a full wraparound terrace with views across the city.

The identity of the buyer has not been revealed but  is expected to collect the keys in mid-March in time to avoid the new Land and Buildings Transaction Tax when it comes into force, which will save around £60,000.

The apartments were developed by Kelvin Properties, owned by property developer Stephen McKechnie.

Mr McKechnie said: "This was a unique project and we're excited to see the penthouse achieve this price. Along with the other flats we have sold in this development it shows that the market for high-end properties is buoyant.

"This is one of the most iconic, landmark art deco buildings in Glasgow, and it has been terrific to be involved in returning it to pristine condition. We were surprised when someone approached us off the plans to combine two of the proposed penthouses into one, but the result is spectacular and the buyer has got a wonderful home which is a real one-off."

David McIndoe, a partner in law firm Harper Macleod, who advised on the deal, said: "We deal with properties for many wealthy individuals, but even so it's not often you see one such as this become available and sold off plan."

The apartments, which were marketed by estate agent Slater Hogg and Howison, sit within one-and-a-half acres of gated, landscaped gardens with facilities including a concierge service, lifts, and video entry.

Scotland's most expensive home is thought to be the sprawling Yester House, on the outskirts of Edinburgh, which last changed hands for £15m.

But the undisputed title of the most desirable flat in Scotland belongs to the four-bedroom penthouse at Hamilton Grand, in St Andrews.

The flat, which boasts a price tag of £7.3m, offers a special feature that sets it apart from similar dwellings - unsurpassed views of the 18th hole at the Royal and Ancient Golf Club.