Berneray is one of the 14 inhabited islands in the Outer Hebrides and is famed for it’s rich history. The island currently has a population of 138, a 1% increase since the 2001 census.
Most people on Berneray speak Gaelic and for many, it is their first language.
In 1987, HRH Prince Charles spent a secret week on Berneray, staying with a local couple to learn about crofting. He helped dip sheep, cut peat and dig potatoes among other common crofting tasks. He later returned in 1991 to make a documentary named ‘A Prince Among Islands‘.
HOUSE PLOTS
Any house plots available on Berneray are listed here, here and at the Estate Agent links below.
PRIVATE RENTED HOUSING & HOUSING FOR SALE
Most housing on Berneray is privately owned. There are a limited number of houses sold every year and there is often strong demand increasing local house prices.
The Scottish Government promotes initiatives to help first time buyers, but some like the Help to Buy scheme and the MI New Home initiatives are mainly available for new build housing in locations outside of the Hebrides.
Open Market LIFT may be accessible, however access to financial support is currently limited and house price thresholds are low. In Berneray, the low threshold means there are few if any houses coming on the market where Open Market LIFT would be relevant. Many islands also have few house sales limiting this option – it is not available for self build.
Islanders may also be able to get help to buy through the Mortgage Guarantee Scheme
Information on properties available for rent and sale can be found at the following locations:
Hebridean Estate Agency | Western Isles Properties | Gumtree | Rightmove |
“The Local Housing Agency”
SOCIAL HOUSING
Hebridean Housing Partnership manages the social housing stock on the Isle of Berneray. It is a not-for-profit housing association that manages over 2000 properties in the Western Isles. If you would like more information on HHP and social housing on Berneray, or you are looking for a housing application form, please visit their website.
Current HHP properties on Berneray (Population: 138)
Registered Social Landlord: HHP
No. of 1 bedroom homes: 0
No. of 2 bedroom homes: 3
No. of 3 bedroom homes: 9
No. of 4 bedroom + homes: 3
Total: 18