Buying a home is one of life’s biggest milestones - exciting, but often daunting if you’re not familiar with the Scottish system. From Home Reports and missives to Land and Buildings Transaction Tax (LBTT), there’s a lot to take in during your home-buying journey.
That’s where we come in. We’ve supported buyers across Scotland for years, helping first-time buyers, families and investors move with confidence. Our role is to make the process simple, transparent, and stress-free, guiding you every step of the way - whether you found the property on our own property portal, through one of our local estate agents, or by browsing our trusted property website.
How the Process Works
The Scottish home buying process follows a clear path. It starts with arranging your finances and preparing your deposit, then moves on to viewing properties, reviewing Home Reports, and noting interest.
From there, offers are made, contracts (missives) are negotiated, and legal checks are carried out. Finally, funds are transferred, your purchase is registered, and the keys are handed over. With us as your conveyancing solicitor, each step is clear and manageable.
Secure a Mortgage Agreement in Principle, prepare your deposit, and budget for extras like LBTT, solicitor’s fees, and a contingency fund. An AIP shows sellers you’re serious and ready to make an offer. You may wish to speak with an independent mortgage adviser for tailored mortgage advice or use a Mortgage Calculator to better understand affordability. If you're also selling, we can support you through our Home Buying Service.
Arrange viewings and take time to assess the property. Make notes on condition, layout, and anything that might need work. Most buyers will first see listings through the digital property market before arranging to view a property in person. You can also set up property alerts to be notified when suitable homes become available.
Every property (except new builds) must have a Home Report, including a survey, EPC (Energy Performance Certificate), and questionnaire. Pay attention to anything rated 2 or 3 and speak to one of our solicitors about any points of concern raised in the independent report
Our solicitors can formally “note interest” with the selling agent, ensuring you’re updated if a closing date is set.
When competition is high, sellers may set a closing date. Buyers submit sealed bids, and the seller chooses the strongest bid overall, not always the highest. Our solicitors can advise on your offer strategy during this stage of the property journey.
For “offers over,” you’ll need to cover any amount above the Home Report valuation, as lenders won’t. Fixed-price homes are simpler but still benefit from solicitor advice. Our solicitors will ensure all title deeds and documents are in order before submitting your offer.
Missives are the legal letters exchanged between solicitors that form your contract. Once missives are concluded, the agreement is legally binding.
Our solicitors review the title, conduct searches, and meet lender requirements. This is known as conveyancing – the legal process of transferring funds and ownership. Learn more about Conveyancing.
On the agreed date of entry, our solicitors will transfer the purchase funds, and you’ll receive the keys. They’ll also register your ownership with Registers of Scotland and advise on practicalities such as utilities, council tax, and home insurance. If you’re also selling, they’ll help with discharging your mortgage on the previous property.
Need advice before making an offer?
Get in TouchBefore you commit to a purchase, it’s worth checking a few practical details that can affect both the value of the property and your day-to-day running costs:
When budgeting for your purchase, remember there are several costs beyond the property price itself:
Most purchases complete within 6-8 weeks, though mortgage approvals and searches can add time.
It’s a compulsory pack including a survey, Energy Performance Certificate, and questionnaire. It sets the valuation and highlights any issues.
As soon as all terms are agreed in writing by solicitors. From that point, withdrawal carries penalties.
Land and Buildings Transaction Tax is due on property purchases above a certain value. Our solicitors will submit the return and arrange payment before settlement.
Conveyancing is the legal process that transfers property ownership into your name. Read more about it on our Conveyancing page.
Ready to Start Your Buying Journey?
Buying a property is a big step, but with the right solicitor by your side, it doesn’t have to be stressful. Our conveyancing team will guide you through every stage, from first enquiry to settlement day.
Get in Touch Today!