Christmas brings pause, comfort, and a welcome break from routine. But as we settle back into January, there’s often a sense of clarity and renewed intention. That’s when many people begin to picture the lifestyle they want for the year ahead: more space, a change of scenery, or simply a home that suits where life is heading next.
And while the property market itself takes a gentle breath over the festive period, the early New Year consistently brings a lift in motivated buyers ready to start their search.
A Moment to Plan
With our offices closed for parts of the festive break, full preparations for selling naturally begin once we reopen in January. Reaching out now simply means you’ll be among the first we contact, giving you space to ease into the process without pressure.
Starting that conversation now allows you to:
Book a January market appraisal.
Talk through your goals and timeline.
Consider what type of home or location would enhance your lifestyle.
Understand how the current market conditions may support your plans.
This is more about shaping ideas than starting paperwork. A relaxed, realistic beginning to your 2026 move.
A Calm But Cautiously Positive Outlook
There has been plenty of chatter around the UK and Scottish Budgets in recent weeks, and it’s understandable if this has added a touch of uncertainty for sellers and buyers alike.
The good news is that, for Scotland, most of the impacts from the UK Budget are indirect. Property-specific tax changes announced at Westminster, such as the proposed ‘mansion tax’ on £2m+ homes, don’t apply here unless the Scottish Government chooses to introduce similar measures.
What we do know is:
Scotland is set to receive additional revenue from the UK Government’s spending commitments.
This reduces the pressure on the Scottish Government to raise taxes or cut spending in the January Budget.
Major changes to Scottish property taxation feel less likely, though not impossible.
Any decisions that could affect landlords, such as rises in property income tax, would need to be balanced carefully against already-heated rental markets.
In short, while there’s still some uncertainty until the Scottish Budget is announced on 13th January, the outlook is more settled than many feared. The broader market has cooled slightly under the weight of speculation, but the sense now is one of manageable calm rather than disruption. To read more on Dr John Boyle's thoughts on the UK budget, read our earlier blog here.
For homeowners thinking about selling in 2026, this creates a reasonably steady backdrop for planning, and January remains a natural, well-timed moment to step forward.
Thinking of Moving in 2026?
The weeks ahead are an ideal time to think about the lifestyle you want in the coming years. Whether that means a bigger garden, a downsized footprint, or simply a location that supports how you want to live, a January conversation can set things in motion.
If a move could be on the horizon, we’d be delighted to support you as you explore the possibilities.
Book a Market Appraisal or Mortgage Consultation
Register your interest now, and we’ll be in touch to arrange your market appraisal or a mortgage and protection consultation. A new year invites fresh thinking, and when you’re ready, we’re here to help with your next move.