Selling a property can feel like stepping into a complex and jargon-filled world, even for those who’ve done it before. Our in-depth Property Selling Guide is designed to break down the process and give you the knowledge and confidence you need to sell your home successfully (and hopefully for the best possible price).
In this latest part of the guide, we’re focusing on Home Reports: what they are, what they include, when you need one, how long they last, and more.
What Is a Home Report?
Home Reports have been a legal requirement in Scotland since 2008. Introduced by the Scottish Government, their purpose is to help buyers make informed decisions by providing key information upfront.
A Home Report is commissioned and paid for by the seller and carried out by a qualified surveyor. It provides a detailed overview of your property’s condition, market value, and energy efficiency. The report is made up of three main parts:
- Single Survey
- Property Questionnaire
- Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)
The Single Survey
This section is completed by an independent chartered surveyor who carries out a visual inspection of your home. It outlines the condition of the property, identifies any repairs that might be needed, and includes an official valuation. It also provides an accessibility assessment.
The Property Questionnaire
This part is completed by you, the seller. It includes important details only you are likely to know. It covers 16 categories, including:
- Council tax band
- Renovations or upgrades
- Utility providers
- Any past issues such as flooding, fire, rot, or storm damage within the last five years
If you’re unsure how to answer any of the questions, your solicitor or the surveyor can help.
The Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)
This section shows how energy efficient your home is and estimates the annual cost of things like heating and lighting. It also includes the property’s carbon emissions rating and offers recommendations for improving energy performance.
When Do You Need a Home Report?
Any second-hand home coming to market after 1 December 2008 must have a Home Report, with a few exceptions. The report must be no more than 12 weeks old at the time your property goes on the market.
If you take the home off the market for more than four weeks, you may need to get a new report. Buyers can request a copy of the Home Report at any time, and it must be provided within nine days. If not, you could be reported to Trading Standards.
You can refuse to provide the report only in a few circumstances:
- The buyer is unlikely to afford the property
- They are not seriously interested
- You do not intend to sell to them
How Do You Get One?
Most sellers have their solicitor or estate agent arrange the Home Report. While you can order one yourself, it’s usually better to go through your agent. They are likely to have trusted surveyors they work with and the experience to ensure the report is accurate and professionally prepared.
What Does It Cost?
The cost can vary depending on the size and value of your home. Generally, higher-value homes come with a higher cost for the report. Your solicitor or estate agent can provide a clear estimate before you move forward.
What If the Surveyor Finds a Problem?
If the Home Report highlights any issues, you have a few options:
- List the property as-is. Buyers will see the issue in the report and decide if they’re willing to take it on. This may limit interest, especially among first-time buyers.
- Get repair quotes and include the estimated cost in the report. This can help buyers understand what they’re taking on and whether it fits their budget.
- Fix the issue before selling. If you can cover the cost of repairs, this might increase the value of your home or attract more interest, leading to stronger offers.
What Happens Next?
Once the Home Report is ready, the next step is preparing your property for sale. In the next part of our Property Selling Guide, we’ll share advice on getting your home ready for viewings and how to present it in the best possible light to potential buyers.
Thinking of Selling Your Property?
If you’re thinking of selling your property, our team of experts is here to help you get the best possible price in the quickest possible time. With decades of experience under our belt, we’ve seen all possible market conditions over the years and are perfectly placed to help you navigate the current property landscape. Get in touch today!
Fill in our free online home valuation form here
Call us on 0345 646 0208 (Option 1)
or email [email protected] to organise a free valuation of your home or to get a full, transparent breakdown of the costs of selling your home.
Thinking of Buying?
Our specialist Purchasing Team helps thousands of buyers every year to get the best deal on their next dream home, while our friendly and expert lawyers will guide you step-by-step through the Scottish buying process until you have the keys in your hand.
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Call us on 0345 646 0208 (Option 2)
or email [email protected], and we’ll be delighted to help.
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