Where to move to in Scotland?

[theycallmebon]

We are looking to relocate to Scotland and because we are self-employed we can live anywhere (well where budget allows - cost of living amirite?) Which of these areas would you recommend for a family of 4 - children’s ages 6 and 12, so looking for good public and secondary schools. We wont need to commute for work, and we like a leafy suburban feel with restaurants and shops relatively close (within driving distance). Beach within 45 min drive a bonus. Budget to buy a 3 bed, 1 bath semi-detached £230,000 but terraced is good too. On the list we have (but are open to more areas as we know nothing about Scotland):

Dundee
Dunfermline
Perth

Any helpful advice would be appreciated for this soon-to-be honorary Scot married to a Scottish lass’ son. TIA. 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

I'd recommend Moray. It's a nice area; has friendly people; low crime rate; beaches on your doorstep etc etc. As for schools, my eldest has done very well in his exams and there's been plenty of support for my dyslexic 2nd child. All of my kids have different clubs/groups to go to, so there's plenty to do.

I have never succeeded in buying under the Scottish system, but that was without a solicitor. I was always out-bid as I never pitched my offer at the right level. Knowing how much is enough and how much is too much is tricky.

When we moved back here snd bought our house under the Scottish system, having bought previously in England, we paid 22% over the o/o price.
The sellers had, annoyingly, priced it very low to garner interest. In the days before the Home report system most of them couldn't actually afford it and there were 9 offers at the closing date.
Thankfully our solicitor was wise to what the sellers were doing and advised us accordingly!