Spring in Scotland. For buyers, this is one of the most exciting – and potentially overwhelming – times to start your home buying journey.
But fear not: whether you’re navigating the cobbled streets of Edinburgh, looking for a wee flat in Glasgow, or chasing countryside dreams in Fife or the Borders, this guide is here to walk you through every key step, offering insights, context, and a helping hand along the way.
Why Spring is Prime Time for House Hunting
There’s a reason estate agents and property portals alike get a flurry of activity in spring. Warmer weather and longer days mean more viewings, homes look their best with natural light streaming through the windows, and sellers often hold off listing until the season changes.
Spring also tends to bring increased market supply. More properties on the market means more choice for buyers, particularly important for first-timers who might be seeking a very specific combination of location, budget, and amenities.
According to the Registers of Scotland, residential property transactions usually spike in April and May. It’s also when competition can heat up, especially in hotspots like Edinburgh, where homes can still go to closing dates quickly. But with the right preparation, you can stay ahead of the pack.
Step 1: Get Your Finances in Order
Before you even open Rightmove or Zoopla, take a good hard look at your finances. In Scotland, most property purchases involve a ‘mortgage in principle’ early on. This is a statement from a lender confirming how much they’d potentially be willing to lend you, based on your income and expenses.
This step is crucial because:
- Sellers and estate agents will take you more seriously.
- You’ll avoid falling in love with a home that’s outside your budget.
- It makes you a stronger contender if you’re up against other offers.
You’ll also need to account for:
- Deposit: Typically 5–10% minimum, though more can help secure better rates.
- LBTT (Land and Buildings Transaction Tax): First-time buyers in Scotland benefit from no LBTT on the first £175,000 of a property purchase. For anything above that, you’ll pay a tiered rate. Want to know more about LBTT? Read our blog.
- Legal fees, surveys, and moving costs: Don’t forget these extra expenses. Having a solicitor lined up early is key – ideally one experienced with the Scottish homebuying system, like the MOV8 team.
Many first-time buyers in Scotland use the First Home Fund or LIFT scheme (Low-cost Initiative for First Time Buyers), although availability and eligibility criteria can vary by year and local authority. It’s worth checking with the Scottish Government’s website or a mortgage adviser for the latest info.
Step 2: Understand the Scottish Buying Process
House hunting in Scotland isn’t quite the same as elsewhere in the UK. Here’s a quick refresher on how things typically go (if you want a more detailed run down, visit our blog)
- Note of interest: Once you’ve viewed a property and are seriously considering it, your solicitor will submit a note of interest. This signals to the seller that you’re interested and means you’ll be notified if a closing date is set.
- Home Report: All sellers in Scotland are legally required to provide a Home Report. This includes a property survey, energy performance certificate (EPC), and property questionnaire. Read it carefully – it can highlight hidden issues or influence your offer.
- Closing date: If there are multiple notes of interest, the seller may set a closing date. Offers are submitted confidentially by your solicitor. It’s a sealed bid, and the seller will choose their preferred offer, usually the highest, but not always.
- Missives: Once your offer is accepted, the solicitors exchange contracts (known as ‘concluding the missives’). Only at this stage is the sale legally binding.
This system may seem daunting at first, but it protects both buyer and seller by ensuring clarity and formality.
Step 3: Location, Location, Lifestyle
Scotland is wonderfully diverse, and the right location depends on your needs. Are you after a central flat within walking distance of bars and brunch spots? A commuter-friendly home with a garden? Or a countryside escape with room to grow veggies and breathe?
Some popular choices for first-time buyers:
- Edinburgh: Neighbourhoods like Leith, Gorgie, and Corstorphine are hotspots thanks to their mix of character, connectivity, and relative affordability (by capital city standards).
- Glasgow: The West End and Southside (Shawlands, Govanhill, Cathcart, Muirend) offer excellent value and amenities.
- Fife and the Lothians: Increasingly popular for commuters priced out of the cities. Towns like Dunfermline, Dalkeith, and Musselburgh offer good transport links and growing communities.
Make a list of your non-negotiables. Transport links? Green space? School catchments (even if you’re not planning kids immediately, it can affect resale value)? Having clear priorities will help you narrow your search when listings start piling up.
Step 4: The Viewing Game
It’s tempting to fall head over heels during a sunny spring viewing, but try to keep your wits about you. Take notes, ask questions, and bring a checklist. Things to look for:
- Damp patches or flaking paint (especially around windows or ceilings)
- Cracks in walls or ceilings
- Water pressure (run the taps and flush the loo!)
- Age and condition of windows and boiler
- Storage space (or lack thereof)
- Natural light levels (go at different times of day if possible)
Don’t be afraid to go back for a second viewing. A home is the biggest purchase most of us will ever make. Take your time.
Step 5: Making Your Offer
Once you’ve found the one, your solicitor will handle submitting your offer. In a competitive market, you may need to offer over the Home Report valuation. This is especially true in Edinburgh and desirable parts of Glasgow, where properties can sell for 5–10% (or more) over valuation.
Your offer can include conditions, such as the date of entry or items to be included (white goods, curtains, etc.). Trust your solicitor’s advice – they’ll help you make your offer as appealing as possible while staying within budget.
Step 6: The Waiting Game
Once your offer is accepted, it’s time to move through the legal and financial processes. This includes:
- Finalising your mortgage application
- Completing legal checks (your solicitor handles this)
- Setting a date of entry (the day you get your keys!)
The period between offer and entry can vary – typically 6–8 weeks, but sometimes faster or slower depending on circumstances.
Bonus Tip: Tap Into Expert Advice
MOV8’s team are experts in helping first-time buyers navigate the Scottish market. From explaining jargon to recommending mortgage advisers and guiding you through every stage, we’re here to make the process less stressful and a lot more exciting.
Buying your first home is a milestone, and spring is the perfect season to take the leap. So go on – your first home awaits.
Discover Speedy Selling at the Price You Want with MOV8
Today’s market is fast-paced and competitive, so having the right team behind you is vital for selling your home quickly at the price you want. At MOV8, our team specialises in all areas of the selling journey, from valuations to digital marketing, negotiating and comprehensive conveyancing. We’re behind you every step of the way.
Get started today by filling out our free online valuation form. Want to speak to one of our friendly team? Call us on 0345 646 0208 or email [email protected] for sales or [email protected] for buying. Let’s start building your home’s future together.
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