Buying & Selling During Lockdown

Buying & Selling During Lockdown

As Scotland continues on in lockdown for the foreseeable future, the property market remains open.  The guidance continues to be that any activity connected to moving home is permitted to take place, including property viewings. This applies to properties that are for sale or let*

“What does this mean for me?”

Whether you are selling your home, buying a first home or simply looking to move to a new property, you can complete this without breaching any guidelines.

You can:

• Have your property valued
• Have photos, videos, virtual tour material etc. taken in your home
• View properties
• Travel to view properties

“How can I market my home during lockdown?”

The guidance makes it possible for you to put your property up for sale or let. This includes providing your Estate Agent access to your property to take photographs, video and other information to help market your property.

“What if I would prefer not to have someone in my home?”

Under the current circumstances some Estate and Letting Agents are arranging virtual valuations.

“How will people view my property?”

Prospective buyers may choose to do a virtual viewing of your property or as permitted under the guidance an in person viewing. You should ensure that if someone is visiting your property that all windows and doors are open during the time that they are in your home. You should not in attendance and the viewing should be carried out by your Estate Agent.

If possible have hand sanitiser available for those viewing your home to use on entering the property.

“What if I’m worried about travelling to or attending viewings?”

Many Estate Agents and Letting Agents have made it a priority to ensure that virtual viewings are available to those who don’t feel it’s appropriate to make a viewing in person.

“How can I arrange my mortgage?”

Mortgage Brokers are still able to work, as are lenders, and with the help of technology we still able to talk you through all your options and find the best mortgage deal for you.

“So, what has changed?”

Much of the process is now done online. We recommend that you take your time to review the properties that interest thoroughly online – taking any virtual tours that are available. Then only when you are sure that a property is of serious interest to you, should you arrange a viewing.

When viewing properties make sure to follow all the social distancing and mask guidelines in place. Also avoid making contact with any surfaces that you don’t need to touch.

*For full guidance visit https://www.gov.scot/publications/coronavirus-covid-19-guidance-moving-home/

As always, we hope this helps! For more information on how ABC Mortgages can help you with your mortgage needs you can contact us through the information below.

Thanks,
Bill Muir
ABC Mortgages

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