Scotland buying guide

Buying a home

  1. Choose an area
    Pick an area where you think you'd like to live.
  2. Price - decide what you can afford
    Make an appointment with one of our Mortgage Advisers. They'll discuss which mortgage and repayment method will suit you best.
    They can also give you an agreement in principle, which could put you in a stronger position when you come to buy.
  3. Visit an estate agent
    Once you know your budget, it's time to visit estate agents to find your dream home.
  4. Find a solicitor
    It's better to do this before you make an offer. That's because you'll need to act quickly when you find your dream home.
  5. Ask your solicitor to 'note interest'
    Once you've chosen your place, it's time to contact your solicitor. Your solicitor will, in turn, contact the seller's solicitor and 'note interest' in the property.
  6. Get a surveyor's report and complete your mortgage application
    Before your mortgage provider will give you the money, they will need a surveyor's valuation. Have a look at the report, then forward it to your mortgage lender.
  7. Make an offer to the seller
    Your solicitor can make a formal offer. Your offer should also include a 'date of entry'. This is the day and month on which you pay for the property and receive the keys.
  8. Is there anything you'd like the seller to leave?
    Give your solicitor details of any extras to be included, like carpets and curtains.
  9. Closing date
    If several people note interest, the selling solicitor may set a deadline, known as the closing date. This is when all offers must be received.
    The seller will then decide which offer to accept. If the seller accepts your offer, both solicitors can start making the final arrangements.
  10. Solicitor concludes missives
    When the written negotiations (known as missives) have been completed, your solicitor will arrange for further checks on the property, including a Local Authority search. Missives all done, you're now legally responsible for the property..
  11. Arrange buildings cover and life assurance
    Be sure to arrange the cover before the property is yours.
  12. Settlement
    That's it. You pay the deposit to your solicitor (if this applies to you). Your mortgage lender sends the remaining funds to your solicitor. Then your solicitor will transfer the funds to the seller's solicitor.
    Your solicitor will also bring along a document called a Disposition. This legally transfers the property to your name. That's the settlement process done.
  13. Move in
    Congratulations! Now its time to make the place your own.

This advice is general in nature and may not be appropriate to your personal circumstances. For independent legal advice please contact a solicitor.

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