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EXPERT ADVICE
        How to stand out









               as a property buyer in a competitive

                              property market


         Tzana Webster, Head of Estate Agency at ESPC Chartered firm Ralph Sayer
               shares her top tips on how to make a lasting impression when
                                  viewing properties.


         n a fast-moving property market like   Not meeting the seller at the viewing? Don’t
         Edinburgh and the Lothians, it’s easy to   panic! Let the agent know when you’re arranging
       Iassume that the highest offer always wins.   the viewing or notify the viewing agent who is   Add a personal touch        well-informed  property  sales  negotiator  can
       But  when you’re buying a home—especially   showing you around the property what your                                      guide their seller through the strengths of
       one  with  multiple  viewers  and  a  motivated   position is as a property buyer and they can feed   Including a short cover letter with your offer
       seller—it’s often the best-prepared buyer who   this information back to the property seller.  can help you stand out, especially when the   your offer—whether that’s because you are a
       stands out.                                                                          seller isn’t present at the viewings. A few   chain-free  property  buyer  or  you  are  flexible
                                                                                            lines introducing who you are, why you love   on timings for the date of entry. It also helps
                                            Line up your team early                                                               if you’ve done your homework on anything
       As a buyer, there’s a lot you can do to   It’s never too soon to have your solicitor and   the property, and what your situation is can   unusual about the property, such as cladding,
       strengthen your position without necessarily   mortgage advisor in place. Mentioning this   create a memorable  impression. You could   non-standard construction, or refurbishment
                                                                                            mention things like wanting to get your kids
       stretching  your budget. Here are some   during a viewing and in your offer shows that   into a certain school catchment, having friends   needs. Showing you’ve done your due diligence
       practical ways to make a lasting impression   you’re serious and ready to act quickly. Sellers   or family nearby, or being drawn to the area   builds trust with the seller, and this can make
       when you’re viewing properties and preparing   and agents are far more likely to favour buyers   because of your job or lifestyle.  all the difference.
       to offer for your new home.          who  are already well-prepared  rather  than
                                            those still figuring things out.                Some sellers may even choose a slightly lower   In summary
       Be open about your buying position
                                                                                            offer because they feel a personal connection   In a competitive property market, it’s not just
       Sellers  want  confidence  that  the  sale  will   Don’t be afraid to show your interest  with the buyer. These personal touches often   about what you offer—it’s about how you
       be going through without hassle. Disclosing   There’s a common misconception that buyers   matter  more  to  property  sellers  than  many   offer it. Being organised, open, and personal
       your purchase position early on can make   should play it cool at viewings and have a good   buyers realise and could be what tips the scales   can really set you apart from other property
       a big difference. Let  the sellers  know if   “poker  face.”  But  in  reality,  showing  genuine   in your favour when it comes to securing your   buyers. So don’t be afraid to show interest,
       you’re a first-time buyer, chain-free, living in   enthusiasm can go a long way toward making   dream home.                share your story, and make it easy for the seller
       rented accommodation, staying with family,   a positive impression. Sellers often let their                                to choose you.
       or have already sold. If you’re a cash buyer   agents know how they feel the viewings went
       or have a mortgage agreement in principle   after the appointments, and if they sense a   Give your agent something to work with
       (AIP), say so. Buyers who are organised and   buyer wasn’t that interested, they might not   When your solicitor submits your offer,   Get in touch with your ESPC Solicitor Estate
                                                                                                                                  Agent today to talk about your purchase
       transparent often appeal more to sellers   be inclined to wait around, and you could miss   make  sure  they  know  your  full  background   requirements.
       who are eager for a smooth transaction in an   out! In some cases, a single strong offer is   so they can advocate for you effectively. A
       already stressful period.            enough for a seller to accept, especially if they
                                            believe the buyer is committed.
                                                                                                         For more information about Ralph Sayer visit ralphsayer.com or call 0131 225 5567.
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