Understanding Notes of Interest in Scotland
In Scotland, notes of interest tell the selling agent you want updates on 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 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. Official overview and Law Society guidance.
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.
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). How offers work.
What a Note of Interest Does Not Do
- It does not give you first refusal on the property.
- It is not a binding commitment to make an offer—you can withdraw at any time before offering. Law Society explanation.
- It does not guarantee the sale will go to a closing date.
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 on offers and closing dates, read Making an Offer in Scotland and Closing Dates Explained.
Contact us: Call 01573 226999 or email enq@hastingslegal.co.uk.
