An offer is more than a number. Before deciding what to accept, ask your selling team to explain the proposed terms, the buyer’s position and the practical fit with your own move. Your solicitor should guide you on the legal effect of any response.
Put the terms side by side
The Scottish Government’s guidance explains that an offer includes a price, a proposed date of entry, any items included and conditions. Ask your solicitor to summarise the differences between offers in a consistent format. A larger price with an unsuitable timetable may require a different decision from a slightly lower offer that better matches your plans.
Ask what is known about readiness
Discuss what your agent has established about the buyer’s position and which points remain uncertain. Distinguish a statement of intention from something that has actually been confirmed. Ask how any dependencies could affect the proposed timetable. Do not assume that a confident conversation removes the need for formal checks.
Consider your own constraints
Write down the dates and conditions that matter to you before negotiations become urgent. You may need to coordinate another purchase, allow time to pack or accommodate work commitments. Share those priorities with your solicitor so that they can be considered alongside price, rather than discovered after a response has been sent.
Understand the role of missives
In Scotland, solicitors exchange correspondence called missives to negotiate the contract. Once the missives are concluded, there is a binding agreement. An informal understanding about price is not a substitute for your solicitor confirming the contract’s status. Ask them exactly what has been agreed and what remains outstanding before making commitments that depend on the sale.
If there is a closing date
Ask your agent and solicitor how offers will be presented and when you will discuss them. Give yourself a way to assess the full terms without reacting solely to the largest figure. Have your questions ready and make sure your selling team can reach you.
Your next step
Request a written assessment of the offers and a clear explanation of any conditions you do not understand. This article is a general overview, not advice on accepting a particular offer; take that decision with your own solicitor.
Sources & further reading
Official guidance consulted for this article. Check the source for updates.