Making an Offer & What to Expect
Once you’ve found a property you love, the next big step is making an offer. For first-time buyers in Scotland, this stage can feel confusing - especially as the Scottish system works differently from the rest of the UK. But with the right guidance and understanding, it becomes a smooth and exciting process.
1. Get Your Mortgage in Principle Ready
Before you submit an offer, you should have a Mortgage in Principle (MIP) from your lender or broker. This document confirms how much you can borrow and shows sellers that you’re financially prepared. Most estate agents won’t accept an offer without this and having it in place also strengthens your negotiating position.
2. In Scotland, You Need a Solicitor Before Making an Offer
Unlike in other parts of the UK, a solicitor must submit your offer on your behalf.
This is usually done through a qualified written offer, following the Scottish legal format.
Your solicitor also handles:
- Noting your interest in a property
- Negotiations
- The missives (contracts)
- Conveyancing
- The final settlement
It’s best to choose your solicitor early in your search so you’re ready to act quickly when the right home appears.
3. “Noting Interest” & Securing Your Place in the Running
If you’re seriously interested in a property but not quite ready to offer, your solicitor can note interest with the selling agent.
This doesn’t guarantee anything, but it does:
- Inform the seller you are a potential buyer
- Ensure you’re notified if a closing date is set
- Keep you in the loop for updates
Noting interest is free and carries no obligation and it simply gives you a fair chance to offer.
4. Offers Over, Fixed Price, and Guide Price & What Do They Mean?
In Scotland, properties are typically marketed in one of three ways:
Offers Over
The seller expects offers above the advertised price.
Homes marketed this way often attract competitive bidding.
Fixed Price
The first acceptable offer at the fixed price usually secures the property.
This can be ideal for first-time buyers wanting simplicity.
Guide Price
A general indication of value, often used in rural or unique properties.
Your solicitor can help you judge what a realistic offer might be based on:
- Local sale comparisons
- Current market conditions
- The Home Report valuation
- Interest levels from other buyers
5. Closing Dates
If multiple buyers show interest, the seller may set a closing date.
By this date and time, all interested parties submit their best and final offer.
Your offer will include:
- The price you’re willing to pay
- The date you want to move in
- Any conditions (e.g., subject to mortgage confirmation)
The seller doesn’t have to choose the highest offer - they may choose the one with the best conditions or earliest entry date.
6. Submitting the Formal Offer
Your solicitor submits a written offer outlining:
- The price
- Proposed entry date
- What’s included in the sale (appliances, fixtures, etc.)
- Any additional conditions
The seller’s solicitor then issues a qualified acceptance, which may include amendments. This begins the missives process - a series of formal letters negotiating the final terms.
7. Missives and Concluding the Contract
Once both sides agree on all terms, the missives are concluded.
At this point, the contract is legally binding. This stage confirms:
- The price
- Entry date
- All sale conditions
After missives conclude, neither party can withdraw without major legal consequences, so it’s a huge milestone!
8. Final Steps Before Getting the Keys
Your solicitor will then:
- Finalise the mortgage documentation
- Conduct searches
- Transfer the funds
- Prepare the title deeds
On the agreed entry date, the keys are released and the home is officially yours.
You’re Ready to Make an Offer With Confidence
The Scottish system may feel unfamiliar at first, but with a good solicitor and the right support, it’s clear, structured, and designed to protect both buyers and sellers.
At Property Connections, we’re here to guide you through it from choosing your dream home to making a strong, informed offer.
If you’re ready for the next step or want personalised guidance, our team is here to help.
Give us a call at 01506 650 550 or Email us at info@proprtyconnections.uk.com for more info on properties which could be right for you