At Rettie Financial Services, we help buyers and sellers across Scotland get clarity on what they can afford, what they’ll need to budget for, and how their move will work financially from start to finish.
Whether you're stepping onto the property ladder, moving up, downsizing, restructuring your mortgage, or buying as an investment, here’s what you should be considering before you take the next step.
Know What You Can Borrow
Before you begin your property search, it’s important to understand how much you can borrow and what your monthly repayments could look like. Our team of experienced and certified mortgage brokers will:
- Assess your income, outgoings, and financial circumstances
- Provide tailored mortgage advice from a wide panel of lenders
- Help you secure the most competitive deal for your situation
- Explain what’s realistic for your budget
This early insight gives you a clear view of your affordability and helps set expectations for your search.
Plan for Your Deposit
Your deposit is usually the largest upfront cost when purchasing a home. Depending on your circumstances and the type of mortgage, this can vary, but knowing your target deposit early helps you build a realistic timeline for moving.
We’ll work with you to understand what deposit you’ll likely need and how it affects the mortgage products available to you, ensuring you have a solid plan in place.
With access to more than 12,000 mortgages from over 90 lenders, we’re well placed to look at all options for you.
Use Our LBTT Calculator to Work Out Your Tax
If you’re buying in Scotland, Land and Buildings Transaction Tax (LBTT) is another essential cost to factor into your move. Our simple LBTT calculator helps you work out exactly what you’ll owe based on:
- Purchase price
- Residential or additional property status
- First‑time buyer relief
It’s a quick and reliable way to make sure this often‑overlooked cost is built into your budget from day one.
Don’t Forget Your Conveyancing Fees
Every property purchase requires legal work, and conveyancing fees can vary depending on the property value, complexity of the transaction, and the solicitor you choose. This includes:
- Legal checks
- Title review
- Reporting on the property
- Managing funds and completing the purchase
We ensure you’re aware of these costs early, so nothing comes as a surprise later.
Selling? Factor in Your Home Report and Marketing Costs
If you’re selling as well as buying, there are additional expenses to budget for:
- Home Report – required for property sales in Scotland, with pricing varying based on property size and value
- Marketing – professional photography, floorplans, digital marketing, and premium promotional options
- Conveyancing for the sale – separate from the purchase process, with fees depending on the sale value
These costs can differ significantly from one property to another. Our team ensures you have a full picture of what to expect so you can plan accordingly.
Let Us Help You Understand Your Move
Every move is different, and at Rettie Financial Services, we’re here to help you make informed decisions with confidence. From budgeting and borrowing to tax and conveyancing, our experts guide you through every financial step of your journey.
Ready to Start Planning?
Take the first step today:
- Get an instant online valuation
- Arrange a market appraisal
- Book an appointment with one of our mortgage brokers
We’re here to help you move with clarity.