Moving home in Scotland: Estate agent vs. solicitor – do you need both?
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Are you feeling overwhelmed by the thought of buying or selling a home in Scotland? For many, there’s a big consideration: who do you need on your team?
The estate agent: your marketing and negotiation champion
Here’s a list of the services you can expect from your estate agent:
● Expert valuation: Estate agents use market data and local knowledge to determine a property's competitive asking price.
● Marketing mastermind: They create compelling listings with high-quality photos and promote them across online portals, social media, and traditional advertising.
● Viewing facilitator: They can arrange and manage property viewings for potential buyers, showcasing your home's best features.
● Negotiation ace: Estate agents act as intermediaries, using their experience and skills to negotiate offers and counteroffers to secure the best possible deal for you.
The solicitor: your legal guardian angel
These are the duties of a property legal expert:
● Title detective: Solicitors ensure the seller has the legal right to sell the property and identify any legal issues that could impact the transaction.
● Paperwork pro: They prepare and review all legal documents, ensuring they're accurate and complete for a smooth process.
● Search specialist: Solicitors conduct thorough searches for any potential problems with the property, including planning restrictions, environmental concerns, or outstanding debts.
● Land registration champion: They handle the transfer of ownership from seller to buyer, registering the property in the new owner's name.
● Financial facilitator: Solicitors manage the financial aspects of the transaction, handling fund transfers and tax payments.
● Completion closer: Importantly, your solicitor will oversee the final stages, ensuring a seamless transfer of funds, legal documents, and the property itself.
The convenience of having it all under one roof
Some people use two separate organisations for these services. However, some legal firms, like Gibson Kerr, offer an in-house estate agency service.
This simplifies the process by providing:
● One point of contact: You deal with a single firm, making communication and coordination easier.
● Streamlined process: The property team and solicitors work together, ensuring everyone is on the same page, leading to a faster and smoother transaction.
● Personal touch: While experienced in the market, Gibson Kerr prioritises a personal approach, ensuring your sale or purchase receives the special attention it deserves.
Ready to take the first step?
If you're considering buying or selling a home in Edinburgh, choose Gibson Kerr's property team! They offer no-obligation property valuations and are happy to guide you through this exciting journey.
Reach out via email at [email protected] or call 0131 226 9167.