Making a note of interest tells the selling agent you want updates about a property—especially if a closing date is set. It’s a common part of the Scottish buying process and helps you stay informed when competition builds.
For the full buying process, see our [LINK: Buying in Scotland guide].
Why Notes of Interest Matter
If several buyers note interest, the seller may set a closing date. Noting interest means you’re more likely to be told about that deadline so you can prepare your offer in time.
Good to know: solicitors follow Law Society guidance around closing dates, but sellers are not legally required to set one. Non-solicitor agents are not bound by those rules. [LINK: mygov.scot – Making an offer] [LINK: Law Society – Buying and selling a property]
How to Lodge a Note of Interest
The most effective way is through your solicitor. We’ll contact the selling agent and ensure your interest is formally recorded.
You can contact the selling agent directly; however, using your solicitor keeps communications clear and reduces the risk of missing updates.
Quick tips: What to do now
- Ask your solicitor to note interest with the selling agent so you don’t miss any closing date.
- Get offer-ready: confirm your budget, solicitor details, and preferred entry date.
- Watch for updates: if a closing date is set, agree your offer strategy and submit a formal written offer before the deadline.
What Happens After You Note Interest
If a closing date is set, you and your solicitor will be told the date and time. You can then decide whether to submit a formal written offer by the deadline.
If no closing date is set, you can still make an offer at any time (subject to the seller’s agreement). [LINK: mygov.scot – Making an offer]
What a Note of Interest Does Not Do
- It does not give you first refusal on the property.
- It does not guarantee the sale will go to a closing date.
- It is not a binding commitment to make an offer—you can withdraw at any time before offering. [LINK: Law Society – Buying and selling a property]
Professional Advice
Noting interest is straightforward, but it’s only one step. The right legal advice from the start can be the difference between a smooth purchase and a stressful one.
Hastings Legal can guide you from noting interest to making an offer and completing your purchase. For detail, see [LINK: Making an Offer in Scotland] and [LINK: Closing Dates Explained].
