Buying Property in Scotland: What You Need to Know

The Home Report

One of the first things you will come across is the Home Report. In Scotland, sellers are required to provide this document before a property can even go on the market. It is there to give buyers as much information as possible upfront, which is why it has become such an important part of the buying process.

The report is made up of three main parts: a Single Survey carried out by a surveyor, which looks at the condition of the property and provides a valuation; an Energy Performance Certificate, which tells you how efficient the home is to run; and a Property Questionnaire filled in by the seller, giving practical details like council tax band, alterations that have been carried out, and parking arrangements

Budgeting Beyond the Price

It is natural to focus on the asking price, but there are several other costs you should plan for. Alongside your deposit and mortgage, you will also need to cover legal fees, potential survey costs if you want additional checks, moving costs, and Scotland’s version of stamp duty, known as Land and Buildings Transaction Tax. All of this can add up, so having a clear picture of your total budget early on is key to avoiding surprises.

The Buying Timeline

Once you have found a property you like, the process usually begins with a viewing and then “noting interest” through your solicitor, which ensures you will be kept in the loop if a closing date is set. When you are ready to proceed, your solicitor will submit a formal written offer on your behalf.

If the offer is accepted, both sides may go back and forth on details until the “missives” are agreed. At this point the contract becomes legally binding. The final stage is settlement, when the money is transferred and you receive the keys. Depending on circumstances, this timeline can be quite quick or it can stretch out over several months, but the structure of the process stays the same.

Choosing the Right Home

It is easy to be swept away by the look of a property, but it is just as important to think about what surrounds it. Consider how well connected the area is for commuting, what the local schools and nurseries are like, and whether there are shops, healthcare and leisure facilities nearby. It is also worth checking if there are any major development plans in the area that could affect your decision.

By registering with Compass Estates, you can receive updates as soon as new properties go live. This means you often get a head start on other buyers, which can make a big difference in a competitive market.

Common Pitfalls

Some of the most common mistakes buyers make are rushing into an offer without reading the Home Report, overstretching their budget, or waiting too long to instruct a solicitor. Another is house hunting without first securing a mortgage in principle, which can slow you down when the right property comes along. Being prepared and realistic from the start will make the process much smoother.

Final Thoughts

The Scottish buying system may feel unfamiliar at first, but once you understand the key steps it is a clear and structured process. With the Home Report providing transparency, a defined legal timeline, and support from the right professionals, you can move from viewing to keys with confidence.

If you are ready to begin your search, register with Compass Estates today and be among the first to hear about new homes for sale across Scotland.