Selling your current home while securing your next one can feel like a balancing act. With so many moving parts to consider, including valuations, legal deadlines and financial approvals, it helps to have a clear plan and expert support from the start.
The good news is that with careful planning, and the right estate agent and solicitor, it is entirely possible to manage both sides of the move smoothly. Here’s our expert guide to buying and selling simultaneously in Scotland.
Get your home on the market first
In Scotland, most sellers will want to see that your current home is at least on the market, and ideally under offer, before they take your offer seriously. This shows you are in a position to proceed and reduces the risk of delays in the chain.
Expert advice: At MOV8, we can get your home listed quickly with professional photography, floorplans and exposure on all major portals. That way, you are in the strongest position to make a confident offer on your next home.
Understand the role of the Home Report
A Home Report is required for every property sold in Scotland. It provides potential buyers with important details about the condition, market value and energy efficiency of your home. Having your Home Report in place before your listing goes live helps prevent delays and gives buyers the confidence to act.
Expert advice: We’ll arrange your Home Report for you and ensure it is front and centre in your marketing pack, giving your property the best chance to attract interest quickly.
Get a mortgage in principle before you offer
If you are buying with a mortgage, securing a Mortgage Agreement in Principle is a crucial early step. It shows sellers that you can obtain financing and helps you understand exactly what you can afford.
Expert advice: We work closely with trusted mortgage advisers who can guide you through your affordability, compare deals and provide the paperwork you need before submitting an offer.
Time your offers carefully
In Scotland, once missives are concluded, both the buyer and seller are legally bound to complete the sale. For that reason, it is important not to conclude your purchase until you know your own sale is secure.
Expert advice: Our solicitors will coordinate the timing of your sale and purchase so that you are not financially exposed. Where possible, we will help align settlement dates to make your move as smooth as possible.
Consider a bridging option
There may be a gap between selling your current home and buying your new one. In some cases, you might need to consider temporary accommodation, a short-term rental or, depending on your financial position, a bridging loan to cover the gap.
Expert advice: We will talk you through all the options and help you decide what works best for your situation. Whether it’s timing the deals carefully or building in flexibility, we’ll support you throughout.
Stay flexible on settlement dates
Agreeing a settlement date that works for both transactions is key to avoiding unnecessary stress. Most buyers and sellers are willing to negotiate on timing if it helps the sale and purchase complete smoothly.
Expert advice: Because MOV8 combines estate agency and legal services under one roof, we can negotiate both sides on your behalf. That means fewer delays, less back and forth, and a greater chance of getting both deals over the line on the same day.
Final thoughts
Buying and selling a home at the same time in Scotland can feel complicated, but with the right planning and professional support, it doesn’t have to be. Preparation, clear communication and expert guidance are key.
At MOV8 Real Estate, we offer both estate agency and conveyancing services in-house, making the entire process simpler and more efficient from start to finish.
Thinking about moving? Book your free valuation today and let our experts help you sell your current home and buy your next one with confidence.
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