How the scheme works
The Matchmaker Scheme is a FREE service. The Scottish Empty Homes Partnership’s national matchmaker scheme links owners of empty homes with people looking to purchase vacant properties. The matchmaker scheme is designed to make the process of selling an empty home easier for both buyers and sellers. If you own a property, it’s easy to register and be matched with the hundreds of buyers who contact the Scottish Empty Homes Partnership each year, specifically looking to purchase empty homes. If you’re a buyer interested in a particularly property, register an interest and your details will be sent to the owner, it’s then up to them whether they wish to follow up on your enquiry or not. While the Scottish Empty Homes Partnership can’t offer any legal advice on the process of selling or buying a property, its Empty Homes Advice Service and website provide some practical guidance for current owners and prospective owners of empty homes.
Find out more at Scottish Empty Homes Partnership.
Selling an empty home
Not all empty home owners have the time or financial resources to return their property to use, and sometimes the best solution is to sell the property to someone who can. Whether your empty home needs repair or is in good condition you are welcome to join the scheme.
It is a legal requirement in Scotland for a property which is on the market for sale to have a Home Report. There are a few exemptions, depending on the condition of the property. Sellers without a Home Report can register for the scheme, but should be aware of the requirements and take steps to acquire a report before entering into any negotiations with potential purchasers.
Buying an empty home
If you are interested in purchasing an empty home, the matchmaker scheme can help you find a suitable property (or properties).
You can also let us know if there is a particular empty property that you are interested in purchasing – with your consent we can pass your contact details on to the owner.
Benefits of Matchmaker Scheme
- It is a FREE service
- Properties are matched up with people who specifically want to purchase an empty property
- It can help you find a buyer if you’ve been having difficulty selling, or if your property is in poor condition.
- An empty home needing repair can give people on a lower budget the opportunity to buy at a more affordable price, and to personalise a property to meet the buyers particular requirements and taste.
How to join
To register for the scheme contact Scottish Empty Homes Partnership.
Contact information
Empty Homes Officer
Tel: 01700 501332
