The Cost of Selling your Home in Scotland: What to Expect

According to HM Land Registry the average house price in Scotland was £199,000 in July 2024, representing an increase of 6% compared to the previous year and up from 4.7% in the 12 months to June 2024. If you’re planning to sell your property in Scotland, it’s important to understand the associated costs to maximise your return and ensure a smooth selling process. Below is an overview of the main expenses you may encounter when selling a home in Scotland.

Home Report

In Scotland, all properties listed for sale must include a Home Report, which is the seller’s responsibility. The report consists of:

• A survey assessing the property’s condition and providing a valuation.
• An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) outlining the property’s energy efficiency.
• A questionnaire detailing essential information such as the council tax band and any past maintenance.

The cost of a Home Report varies depending on the size and location of the property, but it remains a necessary investment, offering potential buyers a clear and accurate insight into the home’s condition and value. If there are no unusual circumstances, the price of Home Report will start at £350 – £450 + VAT for properties valued below £100,000 and located in urban areas. With the most common value of a home in Scotland being £100,000 – £200,000, a typical Home Report will be £450 – £550 + VAT.

Estate Agency Fees

Estate agent fees in Scotland average around 1.18% + VAT, although this may vary depending on the agent, location, and market conditions at the time of sale.

These fees usually include:

• Marketing services, such as online listings and professional photography.
• Conducting property viewings and managing negotiations with potential buyers.
• Handling administrative tasks associated with the sale process.

Conveyancing Fees

Conveyancing, the legal process of transferring property ownership, is managed by solicitors or licensed conveyancers. Fees depend on the sale’s complexity, with solicitors typically handling the drafting of legal documents and managing the exchange of contracts.

Conveyancing fees for selling a property valued at £199,000 are estimated to be around £1,930. However, the actual cost can vary depending on the complexity of the transaction.

Removal Costs

The cost of removals varies based on the distance of the move and the volume of belongings being transported. Local moves tend to be more affordable, while long-distance or larger relocations can be more expensive. Planning in advance and seeking quotes from multiple removal companies can help manage these costs effectively.

Other Potential Costs

• Mortgage Exit Fees: If you pay off your mortgage early, you might incur an exit fee. It’s best to confirm this with your lender.
• Staging and Repairs: Minor repairs or professional staging services can make your home more appealing to buyers and potentially increase its sale price. While these are additional expenses, they could provide a valuable return.
• Additional Marketing Costs: Some estate agents include basic marketing in their fees, but premium listings or professional photography may come at an extra cost.

Summary

With the average house price in Scotland reaching £199,000 in July 2024, it’s important to plan for the associated costs of selling your home. The exact amount will vary depending on your property and the services you select, but being aware of these common expenses can help you budget effectively and be better prepared throughout the process.

Expense	Estimated Cost Range
Home Report	£350 – £1,200
Estate Agency Fees	0.7% – 3% of Sale Price
Conveyancing Fees	£750 – £1,500+
Removals & Moving Costs	£300 – £1,500+

Requesting a Home Report

If you need a Home Report, Allied Surveyors Scotland offers professional services across the country. You can contact our Head Office here or reach out to any of our 30 offices throughout Scotland for assistance.